The longest-serving U.S. attorney in the nation is stepping down. The New Orleans office known for fighting corruption became mired in its own scandal.
U.S. Attorney Jim Letten is leaving the office he’s led for more than 11 years. He was appointed by President George W. Bush in 2001. President Obama allowed the New Orleans Republican to remain in charge, but news broke that two of his top assistants were posting anonymous online comments on a news website, talking about cases handled by their own office. Letten says he didn’t want the matter to distract ongoing cases.
“It is therefore time for me to move on — to move forward,” he said.
Attorney General Eric Holder has called Letten a “dedicated public servant.” The Justice Department is reviewing the online comments.
Listen to U.S. Attorney Jim Letten's full statement here:
