Attorney General Merrick B. Garland delivered a heartfelt tribute to Steve Dettelbach at his farewell event, celebrating the outgoing ATF Director’s leadership in reducing gun violence and advancing public safety.

Dettelbach, who served at the helm of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for two-and-a-half years, spearheaded significant reforms and initiatives aimed at curbing illegal gun trafficking, reducing violent crime, and modernizing ATF regulations.

Garland highlighted Dettelbach’s unwavering commitment to law enforcement and public service, noting his role in expanding Crime Gun Intelligence Centers and championing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), a cutting-edge tool that has been pivotal in connecting ballistic evidence to violent crime investigations.

Under Dettelbach’s leadership, ATF saw a substantial decline in nationwide murders and increased collaboration with state and local law enforcement agencies.

Garland also praised Dettelbach for his leadership on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and efforts to address firearms trafficking.

The Attorney General also lauded Dettelbach’s personal approach to leadership, citing his advocacy for ATF agents and his compassion in supporting gun violence survivors.

Dettelbach's tenure is marked by a deep commitment to the mission of saving lives and strengthening the community’s trust in the agency’s work.

Garland acknowledged Dettelbach’s lasting impact on the ATF and the broader law enforcement community, noting that his legacy will resonate for years to come.

At the event, Garland presented Dettelbach with the highest recognition for service at the Department of Justice, the Edmund J. Randolph Award, honoring his extraordinary contributions to law enforcement and public safety.