Prosecutors
Oldest Federal Prosecutor Celebrates 80th Birthday
Posted Feb 11, 2009, 06:50 am CST
By Debra Cassens Weiss
The oldest federal prosecutor in the country celebrated her 80th birthday last week with an office party and birthday greetings from President Barack Obama.
Lorraine Gerson has worked for the U.S. attorney’s office in New Jersey since 1979, prosecuting mostly financial and fraud cases, the New Jersey Star-Ledger reports. It is a second career for Gerson, who was formerly a buyer for Bloomingdale’s, and she has no plans to retire, the story says.
"Congratulations ... on your first 80 years," the president wrote.
The story describes Gerson as “the stylish and eloquent grand matron” of the office who has “a penchant for vibrant shawls and chic heels” like the red suede footwear she sported at her party.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ralph Marra said Gerson has both charm and a knack for tormenting defense lawyers.
Gerson said she takes life one day at a time and is happy to be where she is. "I love what I do," Gerson said.
Hat tip to Above the Law.