Jessica D. Aber, the former United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, was found deceased in her Alexandria, Virginia, home on March 22, 2025, at the age of 43. Local law enforcement responded to a call regarding an unresponsive woman at approximately 9:18 a.m. The Alexandria Police Department has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death, with the Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner tasked with determining the official cause and manner of death.
Born in Walnut Creek, California, in 1981, Aber pursued higher education in Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree, magna cum laude, from the University of Richmond in 2003. She subsequently obtained her Juris Doctor from William & Mary Law School in 2006. Following her academic achievements, Aber clerked for Magistrate Judge M. Hannah Lauck of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia from 2006 to 2007. She then practiced as an associate at McGuireWoods before joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia in 2009 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. Her dedication and expertise led to her appointment as Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division in 2016
In 2021, President Joe Biden nominated Aber to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, a nomination that received unanimous confirmation from the Senate. She was sworn into office on October 12, 2021, and led the office until her resignation on January 20, 2025, coinciding with the inauguration of President Donald Trump for his second term.
During her tenure, Aber oversaw several high-profile cases that underscored her commitment to justice and national security. Notably, she led the prosecution of former CIA analyst Asif Rahman for leaking classified documents, a case that highlighted the serious consequences of unauthorized disclosures of sensitive information. Additionally, Aber was instrumental in pursuing legal actions against Russian nationals and entities implicated in fraud and violations of international sanctions, reflecting her dedication to upholding the integrity of U.S. financial systems and foreign policy.
The news of Aber’s untimely passing has elicited profound sorrow among her colleagues and the broader legal community. Erik Siebert, her successor as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, expressed deep condolences, stating, “We are heartbroken beyond words to learn of the passing of our friend and former colleague, U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber. She was unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor, and she is simply irreplaceable as a human being.” U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi also conveyed her grief, describing Aber’s death as a “deeply tragic loss” and acknowledging her significant contributions to the Department of Justice.
Aber’s career was marked by a steadfast dedication to public service and the pursuit of justice. Her leadership in complex legal matters, particularly those involving national security and international fraud, earned her widespread respect and admiration. Her unexpected death leaves a void in the legal community, and she is remembered not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her role as a mentor and leader who inspired many within the Department of Justice.
As investigations into the circumstances of her death continue, the legal community reflects on Aber’s legacy of integrity, dedication, and service. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the Eastern District of Virginia and serve as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the principles of justice.
