Damien M. Diggs, the first African American U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas, announced his resignation on Friday, effective Jan. 21, 2025, one day after President Donald Trump is set to begin his second term in office. Diggs, who was appointed in May 2023 after being nominated by President Joe Biden, made history as the first African American to lead the district.
In his resignation statement, Diggs expressed gratitude to President Biden, Attorney General Merrick Garland, and Texas Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz for their trust in him. “I will forever be grateful for having had the opportunity to serve the nation and the citizens of the Eastern District of Texas,” Diggs said.
Diggs’ leadership was marked by several key initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and combating crime in the region. One of his most significant accomplishments was the expansion of the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, which was broadened to include Beaumont, Longview, and Plano. He also established Operation Purple Ribbon, a domestic violence initiative designed to identify and prosecute offenders, as well as a carjacking task force that contributed to a reduction in such crimes within the district.
