New Lawyer Takes Charge of Maryland’s U.S. Attorney’s Office

Members of the U.S. Attorney's Office engaging in strategic discussions.

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News Summary

Kelly O. Hayes has been appointed as the new acting U.S. Attorney for Maryland, bringing extensive experience to the role. Her focus will be on law enforcement, community safety, and combating crime as she navigates a challenging legal landscape. Her leadership is heralded as a significant step towards restoring integrity and proficiency within the office.

Shifting Sands at the U.S. Attorney’s Office: Kelly O. Hayes Takes the Helm

In a significant development for the legal landscape of Maryland, Kelly O. Hayes has been appointed as the new acting U.S. Attorney for the state. Her appointment, confirmed on a Monday, marks a pivotal moment for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, especially in the wake of increased scrutiny following the resignation of Erek Barron on February 12. While it remains unclear whether Hayes will be nominated for a permanent position, her immediate responsibilities suggest an ambitious agenda focused on law enforcement and community safety.

A Journey to the Top

Hayes has been a stalwart member of the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, serving as an assistant U.S. Attorney since 2013. Her formidable experience includes serving as the Deputy Chief of the Southern Division, where she oversaw numerous criminal investigations and prosecutions. In her new role, Hayes emphasizes her commitment to combating criminal activity and reinstating *morale* and *productivity* within the office. With a legal career that includes positions as the identity theft coordinator and health care fraud coordinator, Hayes enters her new role equipped with a wealth of experience.

A Local Leader with a Commitment to the Community

A native of Montgomery County, Maryland, Hayes’ roots run deep in the community she now serves. She attended the University of Maryland, College Park for her undergraduate studies and obtained her law degree from the University of North Carolina. Additionally, her prior experience includes clerking in Southern California, bringing a diverse perspective to her responsibilities as a federal prosecutor.

Challenges Ahead

Hayes steps into her leadership role amid a turbulent environment for U.S. attorneys. The recent turnover of Democratic-appointed U.S. attorneys has raised concerns about the prioritization of loyalty over legal competency under the previous administration. Yet, Hayes’ ascent as the third woman to ever lead Maryland’s U.S. Attorney’s Office—following the notable tenures of Catherine C. Blake and Lynne A. Battaglia—signals a hopeful direction for the office. The U.S. Attorney’s Office highlights her notable track record, including the prosecution of high-profile cases involving MS-13, violent crime, illegal firearm possession, human trafficking, and fraud.

A Vision for the Future

In light of her new responsibilities, Hayes aims to provide critical updates regarding her plans for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, signaling her proactive approach to both leadership and community engagement. She has expressed her honor in leading the office and recognizes the importance of transparent governance that prioritizes the rule of law. Experts, including former U.S. Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein, have praised her dedication and experience as invaluable assets as she navigates the challenges ahead.

Looking Forward

As Hayes embarks on this ambitious journey, her commitment to restoring the integrity and functionality of the U.S. Attorney’s Office resonates strongly. With a history marked by accolades and a passion for the law, she is poised to tackle the pressing issues facing Maryland communities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is expected to provide further details about her strategies and objectives shortly, promising to shed light on how her leadership will shape the office’s future endeavors.

With a dream to become a federal prosecutor realized and her career at a pivotal juncture, Hayes’ leadership will undoubtedly be under scrutiny as Maryland looks to fortify its fight against crime. As the legal community closely watches her every move, one thing is clear: Kelly O. Hayes is prepared to lead a transformative agenda guided by the principles of justice and community service.