Stephen S. Trott

Stephen S. Trott (1983-1986)

Early History: Stephen Spangler Trott was born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, in 1939.  He earned a B.A. from Wesleyan University in 1962 and an LL.B. from Harvard Law School in 1965.  Before entering law school, Mr. Trott was a member of “The Highwaymen,” a folk music group best remembered for its gold record hit “Michael Row the Boat Ashore.”

From 1966 to 1981, Mr. Trott served as a prosecutor in the Office of the District Attorney of Los Angeles County, California.  During this 15-year tenure, he was the Chief Deputy District Attorney, Head Deputy of the Organized Crime and Narcotics Division, Legislative Advocate, and Senior Trial Deputy.  In 1981, he became the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California.

Tenure: In 1983, Mr. Trott was appointed by President Ronald Reagan to serve as the Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division.  As Assistant Attorney General, Mr. Trott focused on drug trafficking, terrorism, espionage, organized crime, and public corruption cases. 

Later Career: In 1986, Mr. Trott became the Associate Attorney General for the Department.  In 1988, Mr. Trott was appointed by President Reagan to serve as a Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.  He took senior status in 2004.

This material is based on the review of a variety of historical sources and its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. If you have any corrections or additional information about this individual or about the history of the Criminal Division, please contact the Division.