Memphis Standard

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn has commented on the appointment of Joseph Murphy as the interim U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee. President Trump named Murphy to this position to address issues within the region.

Senator Blackburn expressed her approval of the new appointment due to the rise in violent crime in Shelby County. "I am so pleased that we will have new leadership at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee. Over the last few years, Shelby County has endured an unacceptable surge in violent crime, and Memphis is now ranked the most dangerous city in America," she stated.

She emphasized the need for an attorney who will handle increased caseloads and enforce federal criminal laws. According to Blackburn, indictments in the Western District have been low, necessitating a more proactive approach. "That’s precisely why we need a U.S. Attorney who will return to increased caseloads, aggressively enforce our federal criminal laws, and keep violent offenders behind bars so that Memphians can feel safe again," she added.

Senator Blackburn also described her efforts with President Trump to install a competent and pro-law enforcement chief prosecutor for Memphis. "I have worked with President Trump to ensure that Memphis’ chief federal prosecutor is competent, tough-on-crime, and pro-law enforcement," Blackburn said.

She commended Murphy’s experience as a federal prosecutor in the Memphis U.S. Attorney’s Office and expressed confidence in his ability to tackle violent crime. "Joe Murphy is a skilled federal prosecutor who has dedicated decades of his career to serving the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Memphis," Blackburn commented. As interim U.S. Attorney, she believes Murphy will address crime issues and uphold President Trump's public safety agenda. "Mr. Murphy will crack down on violent crime, keep dangerous offenders off our streets, and fulfill President Trump’s promise to Make America Safe Again," she concluded.

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