Counterterrorism expert heads FBI Chicago office

A counterterrorism expert has taken the reins of one of the FBI’s busiest offices.

The agency said on Tuesday that Robert J. Holley had officially started his work as the new head of the FBI’s Chicago office. The 55-year-old was tapped last month to replace Cory B. Nelson, who announced his retirement over the summer.

The Chicago office handles everything from political corruption to mob investigations.

Counterterrorism is also high on its list of priorities. And that’s an area where Holley has extensive, high-level experience. He most recently served as deputy assistant director of the FBI’s counterterrorism division. Earlier, he held related positions in Chicago.

The Indiana native briefly led the FBI’s office in Indianapolis. And he served nine years as a U.S. Army infantry officer.