United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced Wednesday he will step down from his position effective April 24.

Dugas said he will join a national private law firm which has offices in Baton Rouge.

He called serving as U.S. attorney "the greatest honor and most rewarding experience" of his professional career.

Dugas was appointed by President George W. Bush and took office October 17, 2001, only five weeks after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.