U.S. attorney replaced early

Laurie Magid, who became the first female U.S. attorney in the eastern district of Pennsylvania just three months ago, was replaced unexpectedly yesterday.

U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder appointed veteran federal prosecutor Michael L. Levy to serve out the remainder of Magid's term, which is scheduled to end next month, Justice Department officials said.

Magid, 48, will now work in the U.S. attorney's appeals division, the official said. Still, the switcheroo, which was announced shortly before 5 p.m., seemed odd.

When Magid, a Republican, was appointed the interim U.S. attorney in February, it was widely assumed that President Obama would replace her with a Democrat when her term expired.

She came under fire in March, when the Inquirer reported that Justice Department officials were investigating a fundraiser that was held at Magid's home for former U.S. Attorney Patrick Meehan, who is expected to run for governor in Pennsylvania in 2010.

About 20 of Magid's prosecutors attended the $250-a-person dinner, hosted by her husband, prominent caterer Jeffrey Miller.

It was unclear if Magid had run afoul of the Hatch Act, the law that prohibits federal employees from participating in political activities.

Justice Department officials yesterday declined to comment on the investigation or on Magid's sudden replacement.

Magid began her career at the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office and eventually served as Meehan's first assistant.

"It has been the greatest honor and privilege to serve as United States attorney and to lead this extraordinary office," she said yesterday in a statement. *