Andrew Boutros’ Tenure as U.S. Attorney for Northern District of Illinois

Andrew Boutros, a seasoned Chicago lawyer and former federal prosecutor, was considered for the role of interim U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois in March 2025. U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood, a Peoria Republican, spearheaded the vetting process for the White House through several interview rounds. Boutros was officially appointed on March 28, though LaHood did not recommend him.

His interim appointment by the White House meant no immediate U.S. Senate confirmation was needed. During his swearing-in, Boutros committed to addressing the district’s major issues alongside his colleagues.

Initial Months in Office

In July 2025, a panel of federal judges in Chicago approved his appointment as permanent U.S. attorney, a decision usually reserved for the U.S. Senate. U.S. District Chief Judge Virginia Kendall’s order did not specify a term length, suggesting it was open-ended. Early in his tenure, the office faced leadership turnover, the impact of a government shutdown, and involvement in the contentious Operation Midway Blitz.

The dismissal of several criminal cases against protesters resulted in a critical opinion from federal magistrate judge Gabriel Fuentes, who noted the unusual nature of some charges being hastily brought and later collapsing.

Operation Midway Blitz

After a year, Boutros defended his actions regarding Operation Midway Blitz in a Tribune interview, highlighting efforts to refocus the office on issues such as violent crime and fraud. He denied any political bias in prosecution decisions, emphasizing factual decision-making.

The ‘Broadview Six’ Controversy

The office charged six protesters known as the “Broadview Six” as part of the operation. Initial enthusiasm from the Department of Justice quickly faded due to case weaknesses. The original prosecutor left for a Senate position, and as problems escalated, U.S. District Judge April Perry found misconduct before the grand jury, resulting in Boutros dismissing the charges just before trial.

Scandal and Wider Implications

The scandal affected other cases, including high-profile fraud indictments against former Loretto Hospital executives. In mid-June, prosecutors dropped charges in a major COVID-19 testing fraud case linked to the Broadview Six prosecutor. Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman criticized Boutros’ office, noting chaos and alleged misconduct.

Boutros’ office also investigated a Chicago nonprofit tied to legal fees for E. Jean Carroll. He categorically denied targeting Carroll. Illinois Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth called for his resignation, citing dysfunction and misconduct allegations. Over a hundred former federal prosecutors joined the call, concerned about political influences.

Boutros’ Defense

Boutros defended his actions, recognizing errors in the Broadview Six case, and emphasized a broader office turnaround. He stressed the importance of prosecuting significant targets, dismissing political influences. Support from U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche highlighted his focus on reducing crime and increasing indictments.