President Donald Trump on Wednesday nominated a state senator representing Laramie County to serve as the top federal prosecutor for Wyoming.
The selection of state Sen. Darin Smith, R-Cheyenne, was lauded by Republicans statewide, who they said brings conservative values and a strong legal mind to the position.
Smith must get confirmed by the U.S. Senate before he officially becomes U.S. Attorney for Wyoming.
As top federal prosecutor in the state, Smith would be responsible for prosecuting federal crimes statewide, including all crimes that happen within national parks, and nearly all felony-level crimes that happen on the Wind River Indian Reservation.
If confirmed, Smith said he intends to be tough on violent crime and crimes associated with illegal immigration; and to curb foreign adversaries’ suspicious encroachments into the state via business or land transfers.
But he’d like to avoid what he calls “frivolous” prosecution, said Smith, referencing the case of Michelino Sunseri going off a trail in Grand Teton National Park.
“You can rest assured, Wyoming will be the standard for the rest of the nation, in how we address the Chinese infiltrating our country, (instances of) criminal illegal aliens, and crime as a whole,” he said.
Trump administration personnel approached Smith about the job ahead of his nomination, he said.
“I had quite a few people from the Trump administration, and others, reach out to me and say ‘hey we really need somebody who’s going to go scorched earth on some serious fronts,’” said Smith. “They thought I’d be the right guy – in skillset and personality – for the job.”
He thought about it, talked to his wife, and agreed to pursue the position, he said.
As to becoming the top prosecutor on the reservation, Smith said he’s looking forward to it.
“We’ll make sure that we bring law and order, and that we’ll be a blessing to the tribes,” he said. “and that they’ll be glad we’re there enforcing the laws and making sure we protect (victims).”
Of all Wyoming’s crime jurisdictions, the Wind River Indian Reservation has arguably the least policing transparency.
There have been cases of violent criminals at large in the community without law enforcement confirmation in some cases, and with extremely limited information in others.
The U.S. Attorney's Office for Wyoming also keeps criminal plea agreements closed from public viewing.
Smith said he would seek transparency, adding that he hopes to “be transparent and do things right,” in ways that won’t sabotage investigations.
“When the President of the United States asks you to do something, you don’t say no!” added Smith of his presidential nomination.
Yes From The Three
Wyoming’s all-Republican congressional delegates voiced support Wednesday for Smith’s nomination.
“Darin Smith is ready and well-qualified to serve as Wyoming’s chief federal law enforcement officer,” said Sen. John Barrasso. “President Trump made a solid, conservative choice in nominating Darin. Darin’s experience in the Wyoming State Senate and years of practicing law in Wyoming will serve him well. I look forward to confirming him in the U.S. Senate as soon as possible.”
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis echoed that, saying Smith “possesses the qualifications, experience, and values needed to take on this challenging role. I am eager to move forward with his confirmation in the U.S. Senate and get him to work at the earliest opportunity.”
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman voiced support, and trust that Smith will “uphold the rule of law, defend Wyoming values, and work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.”
Smith founded the Smith Group Law Office in 2000 and has served as the managing partner for the past 25 years. Smith also serves as the Director of Planned Giving and Foundations for the Family Research Council.
Smith received his B.S. from the University of Wyoming in 1996 and his J.D. from the University of Wyoming College of Law in 2000.
Clair McFarland can be reached at clair@cowboystatedaily.com.
