SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Trina A. Higgins, the first woman to hold the position of U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah, officially left her role on Sunday, February 16, 2025. Higgins, who was nominated by former President Joe Biden in January 2022, completed her tenure without public explanation for her departure.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah confirmed Higgins’ departure in a statement released on Sunday, marking the end of her tenure as the state’s top federal prosecutor. While the office did not disclose specific details about the circumstances surrounding her exit, it praised Higgins for her leadership and significant accomplishments during her time in office.
Under Higgins’ direction, the office focused on tackling some of the most pressing issues affecting Utah residents. Notably, she expanded the office’s efforts to combat financial crimes and led high-profile prosecutions involving violent crimes such as murder, human trafficking, and child exploitation. Her leadership was also characterized by a strong emphasis on collaboration, as she worked closely with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to enhance public safety and justice across the state.
A Utah native, Higgins has dedicated more than 30 years to public service. Prior to her appointment as U.S. Attorney, she served for over two decades as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and Salt Lake County District Attorney. Her extensive background in law enforcement helped shape her approach to tackling complex and violent criminal cases.
Law enforcement leaders throughout Utah expressed their gratitude for Higgins’ work, noting the impact of her efforts on community safety. Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera, in particular, praised Higgins for her “outstanding leadership” and her focus on prosecuting complex cases involving violent offenders.
“I want to thank United States Attorney Higgins for her partnership and outstanding leadership in working with our local law enforcement agencies,” said Sheriff Rivera. “She prioritized complex and violent offender cases to improve safety within the communities we serve.”
U.S. Attorneys typically serve a four-year term, though they remain in office until a successor is confirmed. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has yet to announce who will succeed Higgins in the role. Further details about her departure remain unavailable at this time.