Philly US Atty Leaves Early in Unusual ‘Switcheroo’

The U.S. Attorney in Philadelphia has been replaced after just three months on the job and only one month before her term was to end.

Laurie Magid is leaving her post as interim U.S. Attorney for a position in the office’s appeals division, the Philadelphia Daily News reports. “Still, the switcheroo, which was announced shortly before 5 p.m. [on Friday], seemed odd,” the story reports. The National Law Journal calls the announcement “a stunning development.”

She will be replaced by veteran federal prosecutor Michael Levy, who is expected to serve until June 11, the Associated Press reports.

The Philadelphia News says Magid came under fire for a fundraiser held at her home to benefit former U.S. Attorney Patrick Meehan, who is expected to run for Pennsylvania governor next year. About 20 of Magid’s prosecutors attended the dinner, which was hosted by Magid’s husband.