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On Saturday morning, authorities reported the death of Jessica Aber, a former federal prosecutor, at a residence in Alexandria, Virginia.
Police from the Alexandria Police Department responded at 9:18 a.m. Eastern Time to a call regarding an unresponsive individual. Upon arrival, they discovered the 43-year-old Aber, who previously served as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, deceased. Details are still emerging about the ownership of the home or the individual who notified law enforcement.
The Virginia medical examiner’s office is tasked with determining the cause of death, with further information pending.
According to a statement from the police, the investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is standard procedure.
Aber’s legal career garnered attention when then-President Joe Biden nominated her for the U.S. Attorney position in August 2021, an appointment that was met with unanimous Senate confirmation. She served for approximately three years and stepped down in January when President Trump commenced his second term.
Her successor, Erik Siebert, current U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, expressed his deep sadness in a statement released Saturday. He described Aber as an exceptional leader, mentor, and advocate for justice, highlighting her significant contributions during her brief but impactful career.
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares took to social media to commend Aber for her involvement in Ceasefire Virginia, an initiative launched in 2022 aimed at reducing violent crime in the state. He mourned her loss, recognizing her public service legacy and the lives she positively affected through her work. Miyares wrote, “I am saddened to learn of the passing of Jessica Aber, whose career of public service included US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia and whose work with Ceasefire Virginia saved more lives than we may ever realize.”
Prior to her appointment as U.S. Attorney, Aber built her legal career in private practice before joining the Eastern District of Virginia in 2009. She held various positions, including assistant U.S. attorney and deputy chief of the criminal division. Her biography on the Justice Department’s website outlines her extensive experience in the legal field.
As U.S. Attorney, Aber managed a team of approximately 300 personnel and served a district that encompasses roughly six million residents. A Virginia native, she completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Richmond and earned her law degree from William & Mary Law School in 2006.
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