Markenzy Lapointe, the first Haitian-born and Black lawyer to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, has announced his resignation. Lapointe, 56, will officially step down on January 17, just days before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Appointed by President Joe Biden in January 2023, Lapointe’s two-year tenure has been both impactful and historic.
In a heartfelt statement released Monday, Lapointe reflected on his time in office and the unique journey that led him to this role:
“I have strived to meet the responsibilities of this position with vigor, determination, commitment, thoughtfulness, and humility.”
During his tenure, Lapointe’s office made significant strides in tackling complex cases. According to the Miami Herald, his leadership was instrumental in addressing a wide range of legal challenges, including:
- Cracking down on post-COVID-19 fraud, particularly government loan scams and fraudulent Medicare claims.
- Prosecuting Venezuelan corruption cases, Ponzi schemes, and high-profile financial crimes.
- Investigating and combating the illegal sale of nursing-school diplomas.
Lapointe also played a key role in the ongoing case of the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse, a case with global attention. While five defendants have pleaded guilty and received life sentences, the Miami federal trial for five additional suspects accused of conspiring to kill Moïse is set for September 2025. This high-profile case will continue under his successor’s leadership.
A Legacy of Resilience and Achievement
Born in Haiti and raised in Miami’s Liberty City neighborhood, Lapointe’s journey is one of resilience and perseverance. Before earning his degree from Florida State University and launching a distinguished legal career, Lapointe served in the U.S. Marine Corps, embodying the discipline and determination that defined his professional life.
His groundbreaking appointment as the first Black U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida has inspired countless Haitian Americans and aspiring legal professionals. Lapointe’s trailblazing career has demonstrated the power of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
A Tradition of Transition
It is customary for U.S. Attorneys to step down during presidential administration transitions, and Lapointe’s resignation aligns with this tradition. As he departs, he leaves behind a legacy of justice, leadership, and advocacy that will continue to resonate in the Southern District of Florida.
Markenzy Lapointe’s impact extends beyond his legal accomplishments, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the Haitian American community and beyond.
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