First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews is now Acting U.S. Attorney, ensuring continuity in federal prosecution.
Adair Ford Burroughs was appointed by President Biden, marking a significant moment in the Biden administration’s efforts to prioritize federal civil rights enforcement.
Adair Ford Burroughs: A Biden Appointee Who Made an Impact
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina announced today that Adair Ford Burroughs has been officially terminated by the new Trump administration, reflecting the ongoing shifts in federal leadership.
Under the Vacancies Reform Act, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews has stepped in as the Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. In this capacity, Andrews takes on the critical role as the chief federal law enforcement official in South Carolina, responsible for overseeing federal prosecutions and ensuring justice is served.
Brook B. Andrews is a distinguished career federal prosecutor who first joined the Department of Justice through the highly competitive Attorney General’s Honors Program in 2009. In addition to his role as First Assistant, Andrews previously held the position of Deputy Criminal Chief, managing significant sections such as White Collar Crime and General Crimes. His extensive experience also includes serving as the District Ethics Officer and handling a wide range of criminal, civil, and appellate cases, showcasing his deep commitment to public service.
Andrews boasts an impressive academic background, holding an undergraduate degree from Davidson College, a master’s degree from George Washington University, and a law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Before his time at the Department of Justice, he served as a law clerk for U.S. District Judge Margaret Seymour and Chief Justice Jean Toal of the South Carolina Supreme Court, experiences that deeply informed his legal acumen.
Adair Ford Burroughs was sworn in as United States Attorney in July 2022, following a nomination by President Biden and subsequent confirmation by the U.S. Senate. As United States Attorney, Adair Ford Burroughs led a dedicated team of approximately 140 attorneys and support personnel. She emphasized the enforcement of federal civil rights laws while forging strong partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to combat violent crime in South Carolina.
Under Burroughs’ leadership, the office also prioritized outreach initiatives, including community engagement programs designed to educate citizens about their rights and the resources available to them. The office aimed to foster a collaborative environment between law enforcement and community members, leading to increased trust and cooperation during investigations.
Moreover, Burroughs was instrumental in spearheading training sessions for law enforcement agencies focused on recognizing and addressing hate crimes effectively. This initiative was part of a broader strategy to ensure that law enforcement personnel were equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to handle sensitive cases with the seriousness they deserve.
During her time in office, Burroughs’ administration achieved five federal hate crime convictions and organized seven United Against Hate events in collaboration with the FBI Columbia. These events served to educate the public on the federal hate crime statute and aimed to encourage community members to report incidents of hate crimes, highlighting the office’s commitment to fighting discrimination and promoting equality.
The impact of Burroughs’ tenure can be seen not only in the convictions secured but also in the cultural shift within the office, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and community partnership. Her legacy will undoubtedly influence future leadership and the overall approach to federal prosecution in the District of South Carolina.
Burroughs put significant emphasis on prosecuting individuals responsible for violence in South Carolina communities and recognized the importance of collaboration with local partners in identifying offenders. During her tenure, the office announced multi-defendant indictments and successfully disrupted gun trafficking networks, illegal narcotics operations, and gang violence. Additionally, she oversaw several high-profile cases involving human trafficking, child exploitation, and white-collar crime, such as the indictment and extradition of a Nigerian national for a heinous sextortion scheme linked to the tragic death of 17-year-old Gavin Guffey.
“It has been the honor of my career to return to the Department of Justice and to serve alongside the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” Burroughs stated. “These career professionals work tirelessly day in and day out to fulfill the Department’s mission—to uphold the rule of law, ensure public safety, and protect civil rights. I am grateful for the opportunity to support them in this crucial and patriotic endeavor. To my colleagues, our law enforcement partners, and our South Carolina community, thank you for entrusting me with this important work.”
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
