Joseph Nocella, Jr. has assumed the role of Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, following his swearing-in by United States Chief District Judge Margo K. Brodie on May 5, 2025. His appointment comes under the authority of United States Attorney Pamela Bondi. Nocella will serve in this capacity for a period of 120 days or until a Presidential nominee is confirmed by the Senate.
Judge Nocella expressed his gratitude for the appointment, stating: “I am deeply honored that President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pamela Bondi have appointed me United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. It is especially gratifying to return to the very District where I began my prosecutorial career." He further emphasized his commitment to working with the staff and law enforcement agencies in prosecuting narcotics-traffickers, gang members, terrorists, human-traffickers, and other criminals in Nassau, Suffolk, Kings, Queens, and Richmond Counties. Additionally, he acknowledged Acting United States Attorney John J. Durham for his service and leadership.
Prior to this role, Judge Nocella served as a Nassau County Family Court Judge after several years as a Nassau County District Judge. His career in public service began as a law clerk to Honorable Lawrence M. McKenna at the Southern District of New York. From 1991 to 1995, he was an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Criminal Division of the Eastern District of New York handling cases related to narcotics-trafficking and organized crime among others.
Nocella also practiced privately in New York and Los Angeles between 1989-1990 and 1995-2010 while holding various public service roles on Long Island including Hempstead Town Attorney and Oyster Bay Town Attorney among others. He graduated from Chaminade High School in 1982 before earning his bachelor's degree from Fordham University in 1986 and completing his legal education at Columbia University School of Law in 1989.