Investigator heading up Plame investigation gets transferred to Philly

[spooked]

http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/news/9249173.htm?1c

FBI names new Phila. chief

By Frederick Cusick
INQUIRER STAFF WRITER


The FBI agent in charge of investigating whether top Bush administration officials leaked the identity of an undercover CIA agent as political payback against her husband has been named to head the Philadelphia FBI office...

It's a federal crime to disclose the identity of a CIA agent. The investigation is still ongoing. Bush was interviewed by investigators last month.

Jerri Williams, a spokeswoman for the local FBI office, said it is not unheard of for an agent heading a high-level probe to be transferred before the probe is finished.

"It happens," she said.

Williams said that Eckenrode's new job is a promotion. Eckenrode is currently assigned as an inspector in the FBI's Inspection Division. He is responsible for sensitive investigations, special projects and for conducting field office audits and performance reviews.

[rogerashton]

1. Of course it is a promotion.

Out of the hot seat. Long term career prospects much improved.

[spooked]

2. Or could it be to protect his life

when the indictments come down?

[Racenut20]

3. Had he been sent to Spokane, that would be a problem for him.

That would signal he is a piarri. Philly will probably eventually be good for his career.