In each of 93 federal districts in America, the United States Attorney is the chief federal prosecutor and law enforcement officer. The U.S. Attorney has immense responsibilities and great power, deciding what cases to pursue, who to charge, and what priorities to set. At least as important, the U.S. Attorney decides who not to charge, and when to drop cases for lack of evidence. The job isn’t just to get convictions; it’s to do justice.

David J. Hickton is the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Find more at criminalinjusticepodcast.com.