BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – United States Attorney for Vermont Nikolas Kerest on Monday announced his resignation ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration in two weeks.
Kerest, who was appointed to the job by President Biden in 2021, has overseen the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s enforcement of federal criminal and civil laws in the state. He previously served as an assistant U.S. attorney in Burlington since 2010.
“I will forever be grateful to have had the chance to work towards a better Vermont – one that is safer for its residents, one in which civil rights are upheld, and one in which the rule of law is respected,” Kerest said in a statement. The criminal and civil Assistant U.S. Attorneys, administrative staff, and support staff who constitute the small but mighty U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont are unmatched public servants, and I know they will continue to pursue justice without fear or favor and achieve great results in the years ahead.”
Kerest cited his office’s work on prosecuting violent crime, including illegal gun possession. He also cited his office’s leadership on elder financial fraud in the state.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Drescher will become acting U.S. attorney when Kerest steps down on Jan. 20.