Mary R. Jensen, Bankruptcy Scandal, Washington D.C. 2022

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a shocking move, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland has appointed Mary R. Jensen as the Acting U.S. Trustee for the judicial districts established for the states of Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota. The appointment, effective May 7, 2022, comes as Region 12 of the U.S. Trustee Program faces intense scrutiny over its handling of bankruptcy cases.

Ms. Jensen, a 13-year veteran of the U.S. Trustee Program, is set to replace James L. Snyder, who is retiring after a remarkable 32-year career in government service. “Ms. Jensen is an established leader within the USTP who will bring great focus and energy to this broader role,” said EOUST Acting Director Ramona D. Elliott.

Ms. Jensen’s impressive educational background includes a law degree summa cum laude from Duquesne University, a bachelor’s degree in psychology magna cum laude from the University of Dallas, and a master’s degree in professional writing with a concentration in management from Carnegie Mellon University.

The U.S. Trustee Program, which oversees case administration and litigates to enforce bankruptcy laws, has 21 regions and 90 field office locations. Region 12, which includes offices in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines, Iowa, and Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been under intense scrutiny in recent years.

Ms. Jensen’s appointment is seen as a major shake-up in Region 12, which has faced criticism for its handling of bankruptcy cases. “I extend my best wishes and sincere thanks to Mr. Snyder for his immeasurable contributions to the Program and Region 12 over his long tenure with us,” said Ms. Elliott.

The U.S. Trustee Program has been under fire in recent years for its handling of bankruptcy cases, with some critics accusing the agency of being too cozy with big banks and other financial institutions. Ms. Jensen’s appointment is seen as a key step in addressing these concerns.

As the new Acting U.S. Trustee, Ms. Jensen will be responsible for overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce bankruptcy laws in Region 12. Her appointment is seen as a major victory for those pushing for greater transparency and accountability in the U.S. Trustee Program.

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