Duane A. Evans has stepped down from his role as the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana, effective February 12, 2025. In a statement, Evans expressed his gratitude and pride in serving the community, saying, “It has been the highest honor to serve as U.S. Attorney for the citizens of the Eastern District of Louisiana. This privilege was not taken lightly or casually."
Evans emphasized his appreciation for the dedicated employees and law enforcement professionals he worked with during his tenure. He remarked on their shared commitment to justice: "We, as public servants, will continue our commitment to the vigorous pursual of justice for the people of Southeast Louisiana.”
Following Evans' departure, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson has assumed the role of Acting United States Attorney under the Vacancy Reform Act, also effective February 12, 2025.
Simpson expressed his gratitude for this new responsibility: “I am extremely grateful to the Department of Justice for this opportunity to serve in a leadership capacity for the citizens of the Eastern District of Louisiana.” He pledged to maintain strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies in pursuit of justice within the district.
Simpson's career includes serving as First Assistant United States Attorney since 2018 and nearly 23 years as an Assistant United States Attorney in the same district. His earlier experience includes practicing civil law and starting his legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in New Orleans. Simpson is an alumnus of Tulane University where he earned both his Bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor.