As the new U.S. attorney for Utah, Tolman said violent crimes, especially ones against children, are the kind of cases he is passionate about. In particular, Tolman said he finds cases against Internet child predators particularly rewarding.

After he graduated from BYU's law school, Tolman clerked for U.S. District Judge Dee Benson for more than two years. He then interviewed with Paul Warner and worked four years as an assistant U.S. attorney in Salt Lake City. While there, Tolman scored high marks for working with local law enforcement in Project Safe Neighborhood, which focused on catching convicted felons who possessed guns.

In 2003, his work caught the attention of U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, who at the time was chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Later Sen. Arlen Specter, R- Penn., who took over as judiciary chairman, brought Tolman aboard. For several years, Tolman helped the two senators gain support for the renewal of the Patriot Act, legislation that drew criticism from lawmakers and citizens alike for concerns about the constitutional rights of Americans.

"The Patriot Act is one of the most misunderstood laws on the books," Tolman said, adding he recognized a need for checks and balances regarding citizen rights. However, Tolman said he felt the law was vilified by some. "The Patriot Act became the embodiment of the fear of the unknown."

Tolman is not leaving controversial subjects behind. He takes his new position at a time when illegal immigration is becoming a hot topic.

Tolman said he plans to continue the tradition of prosecuting "aggravated re-entry" cases with a focus on human trafficking that he believes endangers lives. Like his predecessor, Tolman said he is open to meeting with representatives of the Hispanic community to hear their concerns and work with them to help curb violent crime in their communities. "They have a very important place here in Utah," he said.

He will also inherit one of the most intriguing cases in his office: the disappearance of Kiplyn Davis. Tolman said he plans to continue to pursue the cases against several men in connection with what authorities now believe is the rape and murder of the 15-year-old.

As a member of the LDS faith, Tolman said he is in tune with Utah's LDS community and its concerns, but having non-LDS family members allows him to "appreciate the diversity of religion."

Although his father passed away two years ago due to cancer, Tolman said it is his father's sense of humor that has really stayed with him. It has allowed him to disarm both Republican and Democrat lawmakers alike and to reach compromises in Washington. He hopes to carry that same outlook in his new role: "aggressive but fair, methodical and wise," he said.

Hatch, who pushed Tolman's appointment, said after his confirmation Friday, "Brent is the right man for this important position. . . . Brett shows leadership, excellent judgment, unusual talent, and competence."

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Contributing: Lee Davidson

E-mail: gfattah@desnews.com