Former Federal Prosecutor Named to U.S. Attorney’s Office

The Obama administration has named a private attorney and former federal prosecutor to head the U.S. attorney's office in Chicago.

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announced the nomination of Zachary Fardon on Thursday.  He would replace Patrick Fitzgerald, who stepped down last summer to enter private practice.

Fitzgerald rose to national prominence during more than a decade in the office and successfully convicted two Illinois governors.

The U.S. Senate must confirm the nomination. 

The post is widely regarded as Chicago's second-most powerful job, after the mayor.  The chief prosecutor and around 170 assistant attorneys also have an impact beyond Illinois, including by handling major terrorism cases.   

Fardon is partner at the Chicago law office of a major law firm. His job experience includes working as an assistant U.S. attorney in Chicago. 

Fardom served on the trial team for the prosecution of former Illinois Governor George Ryan.