US Attorney Announces Iowa Leadership Team

Waterman names top prosecutors for Southern District

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:33am

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U.S. Attorney David Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa, which includes the city of Council Bluffs, has announced his senior leadership team. The announcement comes as Waterman looks to bolster his office's prosecutorial capabilities across the region.

Why it matters

The U.S. Attorney's Office plays a crucial role in enforcing federal laws and prosecuting major crimes within its jurisdiction. Waterman's selection of experienced leaders signals his intent to take a proactive approach to public safety and justice issues in the Southern District of Iowa.

The details

Waterman has named three veteran prosecutors to key leadership roles in his office. The new senior team includes First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Crane, Criminal Division Chief Michael Reilly, and Civil Division Chief Emily Gonzalez. All three have extensive experience handling high-profile cases at the federal level.

  • Waterman announced the new leadership team on March 28, 2026.

The players

David Waterman

The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa, which includes the city of Council Bluffs.

Sarah Crane

The newly appointed First Assistant U.S. Attorney in Waterman's office, with a track record of handling high-profile federal cases.

Michael Reilly

The newly appointed Criminal Division Chief in Waterman's office, an experienced federal prosecutor.

Emily Gonzalez

The newly appointed Civil Division Chief in Waterman's office, bringing expertise in civil litigation at the federal level.

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What they’re saying

“This team of seasoned prosecutors will be instrumental in our efforts to uphold the rule of law and protect the citizens of Iowa.”

— David Waterman, U.S. Attorney

What’s next

The new leadership team is expected to immediately begin reviewing the office's existing caseload and priorities to identify areas for increased focus and resources.

The takeaway

Waterman's selection of a veteran team of federal prosecutors signals his intent to take a proactive, high-impact approach to law enforcement in the Southern District of Iowa, which faces a range of challenges from white-collar crime to drug trafficking.