SPOKANE, Wash. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the City of Spokane have announced the appointment of Annika Tangvald as a Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) to prosecute drug trafficking cases impacting Spokane.
Tangvald, a Spokane native, was sworn in on May 19 by Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Barker. She will focus on cases involving illegal drugs in federal court.
Barker emphasized the importance of addressing the opioid epidemic, stating, “We see the impact of fentanyl and other drugs in almost every case we prosecute.”
He praised Tangvald as a talented lawyer, adding that her role allows the U.S. Attorney’s Office to focus specifically on Spokane.
City Prosecutor Justin Bingham shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Partnering with the U.S. Attorney’s Office will greatly strengthen our current efforts to hold drug-related offenders accountable.”
Tangvald has served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for Spokane County since 2023.
“Becoming a federal prosecutor has been a dream of mine, and I look forward to working with the City and with the United States Attorney’s Office to improving public safety in the city I love,” said Tangvald.
