The FBI is investigating leaks to the press confirming various inquiries into federal lawmakers, the bureau’s chief told Congress yesterday.
In particular, FBI Director Robert S. Mueller III said he was incensed that details of the investigation into departing Rep. Curt Weldon (R-PA) became public. Reports AP’s Lara Jakes Jordan:
Mueller described himself as “exceptionally disappointed, and that is being charitable, in terms of my response upon hearing about the leak.”
On Oct. 13, McClatchy Newspapers reported that the FBI was looking into whether Weldon illegally steered $1 million in contracts to his daughter’s lobbying firm. Agents followed up with the raid three days later, in part out of fear that evidence would be destroyed after the investigation was exposed.
Officials also confirmed federal investigations of several other House lawmakers that month, including former Rep. Mark Foley, R-Fla., and retiring Rep. Jim Kolbe, R-Ariz. All three men have maintained their innocence.
Senators scolded Mueller about the leaks. The committee chairman, Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., said the disclosures were “just disastrous” for suspects who have not been charged, much less proven guilty.
