Federal Judges Appoint New US Attorney for Northern New York

Donald Kinsella sworn in after court disqualifies acting US Attorney John Sarcone

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A panel of federal judges has named Donald Kinsella as the new US Attorney for the Northern District of New York, after disqualifying John Sarcone who had been serving in the role on an acting basis. Kinsella previously worked in the US Attorney's office in the district from 1989 to 2002.

Why it matters

The appointment of a new US Attorney is an important development, as the US Attorney's office plays a key role in federal law enforcement and prosecutions within the Northern District of New York. The court's decision to disqualify the previous acting US Attorney, John Sarcone, also raises questions about the proper appointment process for this position.

The details

Senior US District Judge Lorna Schofield ruled last month that Sarcone's appointment as acting US Attorney violated the requirement that US Attorneys be confirmed by the Senate. Schofield barred Sarcone from continuing to investigate New York State Attorney General Letitia James. Donald Kinsella, who previously served in the US Attorney's office in the Northern District from 1989 to 2002, was then sworn in as the new US Attorney on Wednesday.

  • Sarcone was serving as acting US Attorney prior to being disqualified in January 2026.
  • Kinsella was sworn in as the new US Attorney on February 11, 2026.

The players

Donald Kinsella

The new US Attorney for the Northern District of New York, who previously worked in the US Attorney's office in the district from 1989 to 2002.

John Sarcone

The previous acting US Attorney for the Northern District of New York, who was disqualified from the role by a federal judge.

Lorna Schofield

A Senior US District Judge who ruled that Sarcone's appointment as acting US Attorney was improper and barred him from continuing investigations.

Letitia James

The New York State Attorney General, whose investigation Sarcone had been barred from continuing.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of proper appointment procedures for key federal law enforcement roles like the US Attorney, and the potential consequences when those procedures are not followed. It also underscores the complex relationship between federal and state authorities when it comes to investigations and prosecutions.