Evergreen Reporter

U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi has appointed Steven D. Weinhoeft as Interim U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. Weinhoeft returns to a role he previously held from 2018 to 2022, bringing extensive experience in federal law enforcement and complex litigation.

"I am honored and excited to return to this role to serve the people of the Southern District of Illinois," said Weinhoeft. "I look forward to working with Attorney General Bondi, our talented team, and our law enforcement partners to uphold the rule of law with integrity and resolve."

Weinhoeft has been part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois since February 2008, serving in various leadership roles including United States Attorney (2018–2022), First Assistant U.S. Attorney, Chief of the Criminal Division, and Supervisor of both the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force and Dangerous Drugs Division.

With a career spanning nearly 29 years, Weinhoeft's prior experience includes over a decade at the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office where he served as First Assistant State’s Attorney and Chief of the Criminal Division. His trial experience covers state and federal law areas such as violent crime, multi-district and international drug conspiracies, public corruption, national security, and complex financial crimes. He also has technical expertise as a criminal Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property Coordinator and serves as Digital Asset Coordinator with specialized knowledge in cryptocurrency and blockchain issues.

The Southern District of Illinois encompasses 38 counties in southern Illinois serving approximately 1.2 million residents with offices located in East St. Louis, Benton, and Fairview Heights.

As U.S. Attorney, Weinhoeft will act as chief federal law enforcement official representing the United States in all civil and criminal litigation within his jurisdiction. His appointment became effective on February 28, 2025, followed by his formal swearing-in by Chief United States District Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel at a ceremony on Monday.