Pillsbury Litigation Counsel Jenna Reed Honored with ATF Director’s Honor Award

Before joining Pillsbury in February 2026, Reed served as a National Coordinator with the U.S. Department of Justice. She earned the distinction for her work alongside ATF special agents and task force officers to dismantle a violent transnational methamphetamine and firearms-trafficking organization. Reed helped investigate and prosecute Daniel Scott Nantz, who was convicted of murdering a pregnant federal witness to prevent her from testifying about his drug-trafficking operation. The victim’s infant daughter was also killed. He was ultimately sentenced to life in federal prison.

The broader investigation resulted in the conviction of 28 defendants, all secured by Reed. During the investigation and prosecution, the lead ATF agent received threats on two separate occasions, each of which resulted in additional federal prosecutions. The ATF agents who contributed to the case were also recognized for their distinguished service.

Reed is a seasoned federal litigator whose practice focuses on transnational and cyber offenses, Trust and Safety architecture, online youth safety, AI compliance, and high-stakes litigation. Before joining the firm, she served as a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) national coordinator, a senior trial attorney in the DOJ’s Criminal Division, and an assistant U.S. attorney. She currently serves as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.