Philip Sellinger, the United States Attorney for the District of New Jersey, announced his resignation today, set to take effect at 11:59 p.m. on January 8, 2025. In a statement reflecting on his time in office, Sellinger described his role as “the honor of a lifetime,” expressing gratitude to President Biden for the appointment and confidence in the office’s ongoing mission.
Sellinger highlighted key achievements during his three-year tenure, including initiatives targeting violent crime, advancing civil rights, prosecuting economic and government fraud, and leading international cybercrime efforts.
Combating Violent Crime
Addressing violent street gangs in New Jersey was a focal point of Sellinger’s administration. Through Violent Crime Initiatives (VCIs) in Newark, Jersey City, Camden, and Paterson, the office coordinated with federal and local law enforcement to prosecute those driving gang violence and drug trafficking. This approach, favoring targeted prosecutions over broad mandatory minimums, contributed to a steady decline in violent crime. Shooting victims statewide dropped from 1,166 in 2021 to 733 in 2023, while murders fell from 250 to 190 over the same period.
A high-profile case concluded with severe sentences for a couple who abused three foster children, demonstrating the office’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.
Civil Rights Leadership
Under Sellinger’s leadership, the District of New Jersey became the first to establish a standalone Civil Rights Division. This initiative addressed the rising tide of hate crimes against Black, Jewish, and Muslim communities. Convictions were secured in several high-profile hate crime cases, including assaults on Orthodox Jewish residents in Lakewood and vandalism of Islamic and Jewish institutions.
Civil litigation also targeted systemic discrimination. A lawsuit against major banks led to $250 million in loan commitments to communities of color, and the office held New Jersey Veterans Homes accountable for inadequate care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sellinger’s office took steps to reform the Trenton Police Department following findings of widespread Fourth Amendment violations.
Economic Crimes and Fraud
Sellinger’s office exposed TD Bank’s failure to prevent money laundering, culminating in a historic $1.8 billion penalty. Investigations revealed the bank neglected to monitor 92% of its funds, allowing over $670 million in illicit transactions.
Additional prosecutions included a Ponzi scheme defrauding investors of $658 million and cases targeting construction fraud, securities fraud, and market manipulation.
Cybercrime and National Security
The office gained international recognition for its role in dismantling LockBit, one of the world’s most notorious ransomware groups. LockBit extorted $500 million from victims across 120 countries before being shut down by U.S. and international authorities.
On the national security front, Sellinger’s team prosecuted threats of mass violence and disrupted efforts by foreign intelligence operatives, including individuals linked to China, Hamas, and Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham.
Healthcare Fraud and Opioid Prosecution
Efforts to combat healthcare fraud and opioid abuse intensified under Sellinger’s leadership. Prosecutions targeted fraudulent healthcare schemes and the illegal distribution of opioids by medical professionals and pharmacies.
Financial Recovery and Office Expansion
The District of New Jersey recovered over $599 million in criminal and civil penalties between 2022 and 2024. The office expanded to its largest size in history, with more than 165 Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs).
Reflecting on his departure, Sellinger expressed pride in the office’s achievements and confidence in its future, stating, “The storied traditions of this Office will continue through our dedicated career Assistant U.S. Attorneys and staff.”