U.S. Attorney's Office Appointed Two Attorneys
The District of Rhode Island added two new members to its Criminal Division to bolster federal prosecution efforts.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in People
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Rhode Island has appointed Alison Bittl and Arthur T. DeFelice to its Criminal Division. The two attorneys bring extensive legal experience from state and military backgrounds to their new federal roles.
Why it matters
These appointments aim to strengthen the operational capacity and legal expertise of the Criminal Division. By recruiting experienced counsel, the office enhances its ability to manage federal prosecutions effectively.
The office successfully added two experienced legal professionals to its staff. These positions were filled as part of a targeted effort to increase the Criminal Division's personnel.
The players
Alison Bittl
She is a newly appointed Assistant U.S. Attorney who previously worked for the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General.
Arthur T. DeFelice
He is a newly appointed Assistant U.S. Attorney and a Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy Reserve Judge Advocate Corps.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Rhode Island
This federal agency is responsible for the prosecution of federal crimes and legal representation of the United States in the District of Rhode Island.
The details
Alison Bittl joins the office after serving as an Assistant Attorney General with the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General, while Arthur T. DeFelice transitions from roles in civil litigation and the U.S. Navy Reserve Judge Advocate Corps. Both appointees bring specialized experience to support the federal mandate in the District of Rhode Island.
Timeline
Alison Bittl began her role with the Rhode Island Attorney General in 2017.
Alison Bittl began instructing at the police academy in 2023.
The appointment of the two attorneys was announced on September 28, 2026.
Market Landscape
These personnel additions reflect the broader trend of federal offices recruiting experienced state and military lawyers to maintain prosecutorial standards. The recruitment positions the office to remain competitive and effective in the regional legal sector.
For local residents, these appointments signal the continued federal focus on criminal enforcement within the state. The move ensures that federal legal services and prosecution proceedings in Providence remain fully staffed.
The takeaway
Staffing changes in federal offices often reflect a strategic effort to balance workloads across state and federal jurisdictions. These appointments ensure that legal expertise is maintained across key areas of litigation.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest leadership and staff changes in the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The United States Department of Justice.
