Will Thompson has concluded his service as the United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. He expressed pride in his tenure, saying, “Serving as the United States Attorney has genuinely been a career highlight.” Thompson reflected on his journey from Boone County, West Virginia, to serving in this significant role.
Thompson was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. and confirmed by the Senate in 2021. He led an office of 34 attorneys and 41 non-attorney personnel across Charleston, Huntington, and Beckley. He acknowledged former Senator Joe Manchin's role in securing his nomination and both Manchin and Senator Shelley Moore Capito's efforts in his confirmation.
Thompson commended his colleagues, stating, “The people of this office are the true backbone of federal prosecution and representation in this district.” He highlighted achievements during his term, including reducing overdose deaths through strategic targeting of mid- and upper-level drug distributors. His office also disrupted fentanyl supply chains from China and methamphetamine routes from Mexico.
In addition to tackling drug-related issues, Thompson focused on reducing violent crime through improved communication with law enforcement partners and securing federal grants. He also emphasized a rigorous case review process to prevent evidentiary issues.
Notable operations under Thompson include Operation Smoke and Mirrors, which dismantled a drug trafficking organization in Charleston leading to major methamphetamine seizures. Several high-profile prosecutions occurred during his tenure, including those related to fentanyl distribution and civil rights violations by law enforcement officers.
Thompson's leadership extended into prosecuting bankruptcy fraud cases making the district a national leader in such prosecutions. Other notable cases involved internet-based fraud schemes defrauding victims nationwide.
Before becoming U.S. Attorney, Thompson served as a Circuit Court Judge in West Virginia’s 25th Judicial Circuit. Born in Charleston and raised in Boone County, he holds degrees from West Virginia University.