Lafayette, La. — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana is celebrating the retirement of Assistant United States Attorney John Luke Walker and the departure of longtime support staff member Vicki Chance, recognizing their decades of dedication to public service and the Louisiana community.
Walker spent 36 years prosecuting some of the most serious crimes in the state, including cases targeting child exploitation, public corruption, and online abuse. Notably, he helped take down the “Dreamboard” child exploitation website, a case involving 72 defendants and among the earliest significant federal actions against online child sexual abuse. Over his career, Walker received the Department of Justice’s Child Protection Award in 2013 and a Director’s Award in 2017 for his work combating illegal pay-for-plea schemes. Beyond awards, Walker is celebrated for his mentorship, leadership, and enduring impact on generations of prosecutors.
Chance served the Office for 33 years, including nearly 20 years as victim-witness coordinator. She played a key role in advocating for victims, organizing community events, and supporting the Office’s staff in multiple capacities. Previously, she spent 13 years as a legal assistant to the U.S. Attorney and First Assistant U.S. Attorney. Her legacy is marked by leadership, mentorship, and her dedication to supporting the people who make the Office’s mission possible.
“Luke and Vicki represent the best that public service has to offer,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Their integrity, professionalism, and devotion to justice have shaped not only our Office but the Louisiana communities they served.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasizes that its strength comes from its people, and Walker and Chance are exemplary models of the commitment, skill, and dedication that make the Office’s mission possible.