The individual currently in charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is Steven M. Dettelbach, who serves as its Director.
Current Leadership at the ATF
Steven M. Dettelbach officially took the helm as the Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on July 13, 2022. His appointment to this significant federal law enforcement position was made by the President, underscoring the importance and authority of the role within the U.S. Department of Justice.
Leadership Position | Name | Appointment Date | Appointing Authority |
---|---|---|---|
Director, ATF | Steven M. Dettelbach | July 13, 2022 | The President |
The Role of the ATF Director
The Director of the ATF is the principal executive officer responsible for the daily operations, strategic direction, and overall management of the agency. This position is critical in ensuring the ATF fulfills its mission to protect communities from violent crime, criminal organizations, the illegal use and trafficking of firearms, the illegal use and storage of explosives, acts of arson and bombings, and the illegal diversion of alcohol and tobacco products.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Strategic Oversight: Developing and implementing agency policies and programs to combat firearms trafficking, violent crime, and other federal offenses under the ATF's jurisdiction.
- Law Enforcement Operations: Directing national and international investigations, intelligence gathering, and enforcement efforts.
- Public Safety: Working to reduce crime and enhance public safety through regulatory enforcement and partnerships with state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies.
- Budget and Resources: Managing the agency's budget, personnel, and resources effectively to meet its operational goals.
- External Relations: Representing the ATF to Congress, the public, and other government agencies, ensuring transparency and accountability.
As Director, Steven M. Dettelbach leads a nationwide force of special agents, industry operations investigators, and support personnel dedicated to enforcing federal laws and regulations. For more detailed information on the leadership and mission of the agency, you can visit the official ATF website.