Jeanine Pirro Begins Tenure as Acting U.S. Attorney for D.C., Announces Key Convictions and Indictments

In a move that surprised many within both political and media circles, former Fox News anchor Jeanine Pirro officially began her temporary appointment as U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia this week. On her first day in the prominent federal role, Pirro addressed the media to announce the sentencing of two individuals involved in a high-profile drive-by shooting near a D.C. elementary school as well as the indictment of another individual on serious felony charges.

Significant Sentences in School-Adjacent Shooting

Pirro wasted no time in confronting one of Washington’s most pressing issues: gun violence affecting the city’s youth. On Tuesday, she detailed the outcome of a violent case that drew considerable public attention just last autumn—a drive-by shooting that occurred barely a block away from a local elementary school, endangering dozens of children and staff.

Rasheed Mullins, 27, and Josiah Warfield, 24, were apprehended and charged with assault with intent to murder and other federal crimes after opening fire from a moving vehicle. Thankfully, while property was damaged and the event deeply rattled the community, there were no fatalities.

Both men entered guilty pleas. During sentencing, the court considered their acceptance of responsibility but weighed it against the severity of their offense. Mullins received a prison term of 90 months (seven and a half years). Warfield, with a more significant prior criminal record and a greater role in the planning, was sentenced to 100 months (over eight years) in federal prison. Following their incarceration, each will serve five years of supervised release.

Speaking at the press event, Pirro acknowledged the trauma visited upon the neighborhood. “This sentence demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting the children and families of the District of Columbia,” Pirro said. “Anyone who endangers our communities—especially our youngest citizens—will face the full force of federal law.”

Indictment Announced in Unrelated Felony Assault

Pirro’s office also confirmed the indictment of 20-year-old Te’Vaughn Brown on charges of felony assault. The new indictment signals the office’s intent to pursue aggressive charges in violent crime cases, following what Pirro described as “a thorough and expeditious investigation.” Few details were provided, as the case remains active, but it is believed to involve a serious physical altercation with lasting injuries to the victim.

A High-Profile—and Controversial—Appointment

Pirro’s installment in this powerful position comes amidst political turbulence. The top federal prosecutor’s spot in Washington, D.C. had been left vacant after Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) blocked the Biden administration’s earlier nominee. Tillis has cited ongoing concerns about the nominee’s stance and actions linked to the January 6 Capitol riot prosecutions, a politically charged subject on Capitol Hill.

In response, the Justice Department installed Pirro—a seasoned prosecutor prior to her media career—as acting U.S. Attorney. For over a decade, Pirro served as both a county judge and the District Attorney in Westchester County, New York, before becoming a regular presence on cable news, known for her tough-on-crime rhetoric and vocal defense of conservative policies on Fox News’ “The Five.”

While Pirro’s appointment is considered “temporary,” some have already speculated that she could stay on for an extended period if the Senate continues to deadlock over a permanent replacement.

Mixed Reactions to a Media Star in the Prosecutor’s Seat

Reactions to her appointment have been mixed. Supporters point to her prosecutorial experience and assert that her time in the media may give her a unique, high-profile approach to the office’s communications and transparency practices. Opponents, on the other hand, worry about potential politicization of the office and heavy-handed law enforcement policies.

Fox News, where Pirro has built a significant following as a commentator, released a statement: “We extend our best wishes to Judge Pirro and look forward to seeing how her distinguished legal background will serve the people of Washington, D.C.”

What’s Next for “The Five” and Conservative Media?

With Pirro’s abrupt departure from the Fox News roundtable the “The Five,” speculation over her replacement has begun in earnest. Alina Habba, a noted legal analyst and regular guest on Fox programming, is reportedly among the top contenders to fill Pirro’s seat on the show. No official announcement has been made, but insiders say a decision is expected soon.

Pirro addressed her Fox colleagues and audience in a brief statement: “It’s been an honor engaging with millions of viewers and sharing my passion for justice and the rule of law. I look forward to this new challenge—serving the people of Washington, D.C.—with the same dedication and drive.”

A Defining Chapter for D.C. Law Enforcement

If her first day on the job is any indication, Jeanine Pirro is intent on making her mark in the nation’s capital. Her high-profile background, prosecutorial experience, and unmistakable public persona are certain to bring new energy—and perhaps controversy—to the U.S. Attorney’s office.

For Washingtonians, especially those in the affected neighborhood, the successful prosecution of the drive-by shooters and the promises of further decisive action offer hope that the city’s streets and schools can once again become safe havens for learning and growth.

As Pirro settles into her new office, all eyes will be on her—whether she continues to serve as a caretaker or emerges as a transformative figure in one of the nation’s most important U.S. Attorney’s offices.