U.S. Attorney’s Office honors two retiring staff members for decades of federal service

Hayden O’Byrne United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida - The Florida Bar
Hayden O’Byrne United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida - The Florida Bar
0Comments

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida held a ceremony in Miami to honor the retirements of Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary V. “Jena” King and Legal Assistant Niurka “Nikki” Machin, both recognized for their long federal service.

Jena King retires after more than 36 years with the office, during which she became known for her integrity and commitment to justice. Her work has influenced many prosecutors and staff members over the years. U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones commented on her legacy: “Jena’s family’s legacy of public service is woven into the very fabric of our community. Every day, we walk through the doors of the King Federal Justice Building—a powerful reminder of her father’s enduring contributions to the bench and to this District. Jena has carried that same spirit forward in her own distinguished service, leaving behind a record of excellence that will continue to inspire those who follow.”

Niurka “Nikki” Machin served nearly 20 years, primarily supporting the Narcotics Section, where she was valued for her reliability and ability to manage complex cases. Prosecutors depended on her steady presence and judgment throughout demanding prosecutions in the district. U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones said: “Nikki was a constant source of support for our Narcotics Section. She kept demanding cases on track and brought order and professionalism to the most complex cases.  She made our mission stronger, and we are deeply grateful for the service she gave this Office and the people of South Florida.”

The event included colleagues, leadership, and law enforcement representatives from the City of Miami Police Department, led by Chief Manny Morales, who joined in recognizing King’s and Machin’s careers as they transition into retirement.



Related

Gregory W. Kehoe, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida

Arcadia professional tax preparer indicted for filing false tax forms

Janie Martinez Castillo of Arcadia has been indicted on multiple federal charges involving employment taxes and false filings. Authorities allege she failed to pay required payroll taxes through her business over several years. She faces significant prison time if convicted.

John Heekin, U.S. Attorney, Northern District of Florida

Crawfordville man pleads guilty to attempted enticement of a minor and obscene material charges

A Crawfordville man has pleaded guilty in federal court after attempting online enticement with someone he thought was a minor but who turned out to be an undercover officer. The defendant now faces significant prison time as well as lifetime supervision if released.

Jason A. Reding Quiñones United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida

Maryland man indicted for sex trafficking and related charges in Florida

A Maryland man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in South Florida on charges including sex trafficking by force or coercion involving two adult women transported across state lines between December 2024 and April 2025. The case was announced by top officials from both local prosecutors’ offices and federal authorities.

Trending

The Weekly Newsletter

Sign-up for the Weekly Newsletter from Florida Courts Daily.