PHILADELPHIA, PA — Jacqueline C. Romero, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (EDPA), has stepped down from her role, effective February 17, 2025. Her tenure of over two years leaves a lasting mark on one of the nation’s largest and busiest federal judicial districts.
Appointed by President Biden and confirmed by the Senate in June 2022, Romero became the chief federal law enforcement officer overseeing nearly six million residents across nine counties. Under her leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office executed key initiatives aimed at reducing violent crime, prosecuting financial fraud, enforcing civil law, and fostering community engagement.
A Legacy of Leadership
During her time as U.S. Attorney, Romero emphasized a dual strategy of aggressive criminal prosecution and community-oriented crime prevention. She expanded the Office’s Violent Crime Unit, tackling major drivers of violence in the region. Collaborative efforts with federal, state, and local law enforcement—such as the FBI and Philadelphia Police Department—resulted in significant cases, including the dismantling of dangerous gangs, arrests of carjackers, and the seizure of illegal firearms.
One notable accomplishment was her leadership in the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force, which prosecuted dozens of offenders, curbing a rising violent trend. Another milestone was the life sentences secured against leaders of a violent gang, the Sevens, based in Reading, PA—effectively bringing an end to their criminal enterprise. These actions contributed to a measurable reduction in violent crime across the district, with some areas reporting a significant 40% decline.
Romero also brought a sharp focus to white-collar crime. Her office achieved convictions in several high-profile financial fraud and corruption cases, including prosecutions of Local 98 labor leaders for embezzlement and the sentencing of Joseph Cammarata, a financier who orchestrated schemes totaling over $40 million. Her leadership in these cases demonstrated the Office’s commitment to holding individuals accountable, whether they operated in back alleys or executive boardrooms.
Commitment to Civil Enforcement
Romero’s tenure saw one of the most robust affirmative civil enforcement programs in the nation. The office recovered hundreds of millions in settlements through the False Claims Act, including $172 million from insurer Cigna Group and $60 million from cardiac monitoring companies. Her office also initiated a major lawsuit against AmerisourceBergen for its alleged role in exacerbating the opioid crisis, reflecting her dedication to tackling public health issues through legal channels.
Her efforts extended to civil rights enforcement, addressing redlining by financial institutions and holding corporations accountable for discriminatory practices. These investigations resulted in resolutions that underscored the district’s position as a national leader in civil rights accountability.
Building Community Trust
Ms. Romero’s leadership was not confined to the courtroom. She prioritized community outreach by enhancing engagement in underserved areas, launching youth programs, and supporting reentry initiatives for formerly incarcerated individuals. Under her guidance, the Office expanded its public-facing efforts with the creation of a dedicated External Engagement team.
“My team and I have gone out and met the people of this District where they are,” Romero said in one of her closing remarks. “It’s helped build trust in the community, and that isn’t just something—it’s everything.”
Transition to New Leadership
Following Romero’s departure, Nelson S.T. Thayer, Jr., the First Assistant U.S. Attorney, has assumed the role of Acting U.S. Attorney for EDPA. Thayer brings over three decades of Department of Justice experience to the role, signaling a steady transition and continuity of the Office’s mission.
Jacqueline C. Romero’s tenure as U.S. Attorney was marked by decisive action, innovative strategies, and a focus on justice that resonated throughout the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. From reducing violent crime to holding corporations to account, her leadership has set a strong foundation for the district’s ongoing efforts.
Under Acting U.S. Attorney Nelson Thayer’s stewardship, the Office is poised to build on these achievements, continuing its commitment to safeguarding the region and strengthening the bonds between law enforcement and the communities it serves.
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