Shanelle Booker Makes History as the First Black Woman Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia

Congratulations are in order for Shanelle Booker, who has officially been named the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia as of January 12. This significant milestone, as highlighted in a press release from the United States Attorney?s Office, represents a groundbreaking achievement as she becomes the first Black individual and the first Black woman to lead this crucial legal office. This historic appointment not only shatters glass ceilings but also brings renewed hope and representation to the community she serves.

Extensive Legal Expertise and Proven Leadership Qualify Booker for Her Role

Booker possesses an impressive and extensive resume that underscores her qualifications for the prestigious position of Acting U.S. Attorney. As reported by the U.S. Attorney?s Office, she has successfully prosecuted a diverse array of high-profile cases, which encompass serious issues such as violent crime, child exploitation, sex trafficking, public corruption, and fraud within the Middle District of Georgia. Since her induction into the U.S. Attorney?s Office in 2015, Booker has risen through the ranks, fulfilling nearly every key leadership role, including Elder Justice Coordinator, Criminal Civil Rights and Hate Crimes Coordinator, Deputy Criminal Division Chief, Criminal Division Chief, Acting Administrative Officer, and First Assistant U.S. Attorney.

Overseeing Legal Affairs for a Diverse Population in Central Georgia

In her new capacity as Acting U.S. Attorney, Booker, who hails from Riverdale, Georgia, will be responsible for managing legal affairs across the Middle District of Georgia. This expansive district encompasses 70 of Georgia’s 159 counties, including Albany, Athens, Columbus, Macon, and Valdosta, serving a vibrant population of approximately 2,045,000 residents. The office plays a crucial role in prosecuting federal crimes throughout the district, tackling offenses related to terrorism, public corruption, child exploitation, fraud, firearms, gangs, and narcotics. Moreover, it is tasked with defending the United States in civil cases and diligently working to collect debts owed to the federal government.

Booker is enthusiastic about her new responsibilities.

?It is an absolute honor for me to serve the citizens of the Middle District of Georgia in this significant leadership role, and I am dedicated to ensuring the office’s vital work continues without interruption,? she expressed in a statement. ?Upholding justice and ensuring the safety of all residents is our office?s highest priority, alongside our robust partnerships with law enforcement and community organizations throughout the Middle District of Georgia.?

Empowering the Next Generation: Booker’s Commitment to Community Service

Booker is deeply passionate about giving back to her community, particularly in her efforts to empower young individuals. Throughout her career, she has actively mentored juvenile girls at the Macon Regional Youth Detention Center through the Girl Squad Mentoring Program, and she champions literacy initiatives through the United Way of Central Georgia?s Read United Program, which provides essential school-based reading support and tutoring. Additionally, she collaborates with the Just the Beginning Foundation to inspire underrepresented students to explore careers in law, and she volunteers her time with the Georgia High School Mock Trial Competition.

Moreover, she is a dedicated member of Bibb Mount Zion Baptist Church and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Ms. Booker also previously served as a board member of the Central Georgia Empowerment Fund, a philanthropic organization committed to strengthening nonprofit groups that serve the Black community and address critical issues affecting Central Georgia?s Black population.

Booker?s historic appointment follows the resignation of Peter D. Leary, who held the position of U.S. Attorney since 2021.

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