Interim U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros has reaffirmed the Northern District of Illinois’ commitment to maintaining its broad and dynamic case portfolio—even as the office aligns with top priorities set by leadership in Washington, D.C. This dual approach highlights Boutros’s strategy, best summarized as: Chicago US Atty, Local Focus vs DC.
At a press briefing on Tuesday, Boutros emphasized that while directives from the Department of Justice remain “very clear”—including a focus on violent crime, drug cartels, human and sex trafficking, and immigration issues—his office will not abandon its hallmark diversity of cases.
“We’re like a Sunday brunch buffet—rich in variety and full of vital programs,” said Boutros. “Just because something becomes a priority doesn’t mean we neglect everything else.”
Boutros assured that key sections such as financial crimes, securities fraud, and public corruption remain active and essential to the office’s mission. Despite recent high-profile trial challenges, including partial verdicts in public corruption cases, Boutros views them as critical learning moments to adapt and strengthen future prosecutions.
“Our public corruption unit may be small, but it’s mighty,” he stated. “That section has always punched above its weight, and that won’t change.”
Boutros also acknowledged current staffing challenges, noting the office is operating with 40 to 45 fewer attorneys than needed and is under a hiring freeze. Nevertheless, he remains focused on maximizing available resources.
“There are no excuses here. We do the best we can with what we have,” he said. “We’re not rebuilding an engine—we’re fine-tuning it.”
Sworn in earlier this month, Boutros returns to federal service following nearly a decade in private practice, where he led national efforts in white-collar defense and government investigations.
Boutros concluded with a clear message: “Our vision honors the legacy of this office while rising to meet the evolving needs of both our district and the nation.”
