Ryan K. Buchanan U.S. Attorney | US Attorney's office Northern District of Georgia
U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan has announced his resignation, effective January 19, 2025. Buchanan has served as the chief law enforcement officer for the Northern District of Georgia since being sworn in on May 2, 2022, after his nomination by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. and confirmation by the U.S. Senate.
During his time in office, Buchanan led a team of around 250 personnel dedicated to enforcing federal laws and representing U.S. interests in court. His oversight included cases involving violent crimes, drug trafficking, cybercrimes, public corruption, civil rights violations, and more.
Buchanan also played a role beyond the Northern District as part of Attorney General Merrick Garland’s Advisory Committee (AGAC), where he contributed to national legal policy discussions. He was Vice-Chair of the AGAC's Terrorism and National Security Subcommittee and led efforts related to malign foreign influence.
In a message to his office staff, Buchanan expressed gratitude: “Earlier today, I tendered my resignation as United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia to President Biden and Attorney General Garland... It has been the privilege of my life to serve with you as colleagues.”
Under Buchanan’s leadership, significant achievements were made in criminal and civil cases within the district. Notable prosecutions included a minor sex trafficking group sentenced following an incident involving a missing minor from Miami; Jalal Hajavi convicted for unlawful export activities linked to Iran; Kenny Wells sentenced for discharging a firearm at Atlanta Airport; and Mezemr Abebe Belayneh convicted for fraudulently obtaining U.S. citizenship related to Ethiopia's Red Terror.
Fraud convictions under Operation Five Fingers resulted in charges against 40 defendants involved in schemes causing over $30 million in losses. Civil case accomplishments included penalties against Charles Adams M.D., totaling over $27 million for false Medicare claims, and UBS AG paying $1.435 billion related to mortgage-backed securities misconduct.
Efforts in narcotics led to convictions of individuals involved in laundering over $1.4 million linked to drug money across major U.S cities.
The Public Integrity & Civil Rights Section saw progress with cases like that of former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill’s conviction for civil rights violations at a jail facility.
Community outreach was emphasized during Buchanan's tenure through partnerships aimed at combating opioid use and human trafficking among other initiatives.
As Buchanan steps down from his role as U.S. Attorney, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr., will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney until a successor is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
“I thank President Biden for nominating me... It has been an honor and a privilege to serve,” said Buchanan upon announcing his departure.
For further information regarding this transition or other inquiries about the office's work during Buchanan's term can be directed to their Public Affairs Office via email or phone contact provided online at their official website.
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