U.S. Attorney Parsons announces his resignation

SIOUX FALLS, SD – United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that he will step down as chief federal law enforcement officer for the District of South Dakota effective February 26, 2021.  His resignation was expected and is part of the regular transition of appointed officials from office when a new Administration comes in.

Regarding his departure, Parsons said:

“Serving in this position and working alongside state, local, tribal, and federal law enforcement officials has been the highest privilege of my life.  Throughout my term, I’ve had the opportunity to observe the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of officers at every level of government throughout our state working to protect the public, keep the peace, solve crimes, safeguard victims, and hold criminals accountable for the misery they cause.  Law enforcement is a vital, noble, and truly rewarding profession, and I encourage young people of all backgrounds to consider it as a career.

It has been an extraordinary honor to serve in the Department of Justice under Attorney General Barr and Attorney General Sessions and I thank them for their leadership and their confidence in me to lead this office.  I would also like to thank Senator Thune and Senator Rounds for recommending me for this position and placing their trust in my abilities to serve the people of South Dakota as their chief federal law enforcement officer.

I’m also very grateful for the friendships and relationships I have developed with members and leaders of the nine federally recognized Indian tribes in South Dakota.  I particularly will miss visiting tribal communities and appearing before Tribal Councils to work collaboratively on solutions for improving public safety for everyone.

Above all, I am deeply appreciative of the men and women of the U.S. Attorney’s Office working in each of our three branches in Rapid City, Pierre, and Sioux Falls.  Their friendship, professionalism, and good will have made my job as enjoyable as it was rewarding.  Every day, their continued hard work and dedication to the pursuit of justice makes South Dakota, and our nation, a better place to live.  Any credit for accomplishments during my tenure as United States Attorney belongs solely to them and our law enforcement partners.  I will miss them, and they have my enduring thanks.”

Parsons was formally nominated by President Trump in September 2017 and began serving as United States Attorney on January 5, 2018 following his unanimous confirmation by the Senate.  Following his departure, he intends to return to private practice in Sioux Falls.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney and Criminal Chief Dennis R. Holmes will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota after Parsons officially leaves his post on February 26.