James Cole/law firm

WASHINGTON — Following months of frustration and opposition from Republicans, President Obama last week used a recess appointment to install James Cole to the number two spot at the Justice Department. On Monday, he was sworn in.

The post, deputy attorney general, has been vacant since February. Cole, 58, is a partner at the law firm Bryan Cave LLP since 1995. Republicans have raised concerns about his views on terrorism and his legal work representing the highly problematic American International Group.

Cole began working for the Justice Department in 1979 as part of Attorney General’s Honors Program and served there for 13 years. First he was a trial attorney in the Criminal Division and later he served as the Deputy Chief of the Division’s Public Integrity Section.

He entered private practice in 1992.

“I am pleased to welcome Jim back to the Department of Justice,” Attorney General Eric Holder Jr. said Monday.  “He will be critical in our work to keep the American people safe, ensure the fairness and integrity of our financial markets, and restore the traditional missions of the Department.”

The Senate Judiciary Committee approved Cole’s nomination in July.

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New Year's Eve in Times Square/fbi photo

One of the more intense events of the year — New Year’s Eve in Times Square — came off without any major incidents.

The New York FBI office said it deployed hundreds of employees including agents, analysts and professional staff to deal with the event.  It also worked with other law enforcement agencies like the New York Police Dept. and members of the Joint Terrorism Task Force.

“We are constantly working to help keep this city safe. At high profile events, like New Year’s Eve, the FBI works tirelessly to prevent and thwart any possible attacks,” said assistant director in charge of the New York FBI office Janice K. Fedarcyk.

Agents in the mobile command post/fbi photo

“We worked closely with our law enforcement partners and as we look back on the fact that last night was only filled with good memories, we can say job well done.”

Fedarcyk’s office posted some photo on the N.Y. FBI website from the evening.  Here they are.

SWAT team leader Dan Feither talks to reporter

Agent Kristy Kottis speaks to colleague in joint operation center

Special Agent in Charge Greg Fowler gives briefing

FBI's mobile command center

Special agent bomb tech Pete Licata

NYPD's command post

SAC Mary Galligan (center)briefs head of NY office Janice Fedarcyk at joint operation center (right)