Chief Judge Mark E. Walker announces that on February 15, 2025, after nearly 50 years of distinguished service to our Court, the Federal Judiciary, and the people of Florida and the United States, the Honorable William Henry Stafford, Jr., will assume inactive status as a senior United States district judge.

Prior to his confirmation as district judge, Judge Stafford served as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida from 1969 to 1975. He was confirmed by the United States Senate on May 12, 1975, received his commission on May 14, 1975, and has served as a district judge ever since. Judge Stafford served as Chief Judge of the Northern District of Florida from 1981 to 1993. He assumed senior status on May 31, 1996. After taking senior status, Judge Stafford served as a judge on the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court from 1996 to 2003. Few judges can claim such a distinguished career.