Montana US Marshal Ostermiller retiring after three decades

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana U.S. Marshall Rod Ostermiller said Tuesday he is retiring after nearly 30 years in law enforcement.

Ostermiller's retirement will be effective Dec. 31. He was nominated as the state's U.S. Marshal by President Donald Trump and confirmed by the Senate in 2018, capping a career with the Marshals Service that began in 1991.

Ostermiller, a native of Billings, said he had accomplished what he wanted to and had long intended to leave the service after serving 30 years. He declined to specify his future plans but said he intends to continue serving the public.

The Marshals Service is the law enforcement arm of the federal court system with duties that include apprehending fugitives, protecting judges and witnesses and transporting federal prisoners.

Chief Deputy Marshal Tim Hornung will lead the agency in Montana on an acting basis until a permanent replacement is named.