Charles “Chas” Calenda Appointed Interim United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island

PROVIDENCE – United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi has appointed Charles “Chas” Calenda as Interim United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island.

As Interim United States Attorney, Mr. Calenda will serve as the chief federal law enforcement officer for the District of Rhode Island, overseeing the prosecution of federal criminal cases and the representation of the United States in civil matters.

“It is an honor and privilege to be appointed Interim United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island.  I thank Attorney General Bondi and the Department of Justice for placing their trust in me to oversee this very important office,” said Interim United States Attorney Charles Calenda.

Mr. Calenda has nearly two decades of experience as a trial attorney and former prosecutor.  He previously served as a Special Assistant Attorney General at the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General, where he prosecuted criminal cases at all levels of the court system.  During his tenure, he was assigned to the Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit and tried more than 60 cases to conclusion between the district, family, and superior courts in Rhode Island.

Mr. Calenda was cross designated as a Special Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Rhode Island, assisting with federal criminal investigations and litigation. He has extensive knowledge in strategic-litigation planning, case analysis and trial preparation, and both jury and non-jury trials.

“I would like to offer a special thank you to the First Assistant United States Attorney for doing a remarkable job keeping this office stable and running for the last ten plus months. I am grateful to the dedicated attorneys and staff of the District of Rhode Island, and our district is fortunate to have exceptionally well-seasoned leadership and staff who selflessly serve the people of Rhode Island day in and day out. I am proud to be part of this team so we can keep Rhode Islanders safe from those seeking to do us harm.  I am confident that the attorneys and staff will continue their hard work during my tenure in this office.  I am committed to working collaboratively with all federal, state, and local law enforcement to ensure the betterment of all Rhode Islanders. I look forward to the important work ahead and will always remember that I served the people of Rhode Island above all else.”

In addition to his public service, Mr. Calenda has practiced as a litigation attorney focusing on criminal defense and civil litigation. He has also served as a Justice of the Peace and Bail Commissioner for District Court, as well as a Town Councilor for the Town of West Greenwich.

Mr. Calenda earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Miami School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Communication from the University of Miami.

Mr. Calenda was sworn in today, December 30, 2025, before United States District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr.