Born in Ridgewood, New Jersey[citation needed], she is the daughter of Richard I. and Phyllis "Penny" Coombe of Grahamsville, New York.

She joined the office in 2003 and from 2014 to 2018, she served as chief of the criminal division,[4] becoming the first woman to do so.

President Biden nominated Coombe to the seat being vacated by Judge Glenn T. Suddaby, who subsequently assumed senior status on September 1, 2024.

[7] On September 25, 2024, a hearing on her nomination was held before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

[9] On December 4, 2024, the United States Senate invoked cloture on her nomination by a 52–46 vote.