News12 New York
Where to Watch
Download the App
Local
Crime
Weather
beWell
The East End
Crime Files

Uncertainty surrounds leadership changes in northern New York U.S. attorney's office

Last week, Westchester resident John Sarcone was removed by a federal judge after the court ruled he had been serving unlawfully as acting U.S. attorney.

News 12 Staff

Feb 12, 2026, 12:30 PM

Updated

Share:

More Stories

There is confusion over who will serve as the next U.S. attorney for northern New York.

Last week, Westchester resident John Sarcone was removed by a federal judge after the court ruled he had been serving unlawfully as acting U.S. attorney. Sarcone said he would remain as first assistant U.S. attorney.

On Wednesday, New York‑based federal judges selected longtime lawyer Donald Kinsella for the position. A few hours later, Kinsella said he had been fired by the Trump administration.

It is unclear what will happen next.

Politico reports that Sarcone was leading an investigation into New York Attorney General Letitia James, and that in disqualifying Sarcone, the judge also quashed two subpoenas to James that had been signed by Sarcone.

The Justice Department is appealing the decision.

More Stories

More From News12

App StoreGoogle Play Store

info

Newsletter

Send Photos/Videos

Contact

About Us

News Team

News 12 New York

follow us

Twitter

Facebook

Instagram

more resources

Optimum Corporate

Optimum Service

Advertise on News 12

Careers

Content Removal Policy

© 2026 N12N, LLC

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Ad Choices