New Prosecutor Pledges to Combat West Virginia Crime

A new federal prosecutor is on the job in West Virginia, vowing to take on the region’s crime problem. Traci M. Cook took the oath of office yesterday in United States District Court, marking the beginning of her tenure in the Northern District of West Virginia.

Cook, a seasoned litigator, will work in the Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and serve as the supervisor of the Clarksburg branch office. Her experience will undoubtedly be a valuable asset in the office’s efforts to combat the scourge of crime in Northern West Virginia, according to U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.

"Traci is a seasoned litigator with a level of skill and dedication that will be a tremendous asset in our efforts to combat drug trafficking and violent crime in Northern West Virginia," noted U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II. "Her wealth of trial and supervisory experience will allow her to immediately contribute to the office and enhance law enforcement efforts in the region."

Cook’s background is impressive, with a Bachelor of Science in International Studies from West Liberty State College in 1992 and a law degree from the West Virginia University College of Law in 1996. She was a champion of the Lugar Trial Competition and member of the Order of the Barristers during her time at law school.

Before joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Cook served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Harrison County, West Virginia, for over a decade. She also worked as an Assistant Public Defender for the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit in Clarksburg and in the private sector.

Cook’s swearing-in ceremony was attended by U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, and United States District Judge Irene M. Keeley. The new prosecutor will undoubtedly be a key player in the region’s efforts to combat crime and make West Virginia a safer place for its citizens.

Pictured from left to right: United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, Assistant United States Attorney Traci Cook, and United States District Judge Irene M. Keeley.

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