A 1st Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia has been named to serve as the interim replacement for the retiring Jim Letten.

U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder says Dana Boente is a veteran prosecutor who has worked for the Justice Department for 28 years.  Prior to being named to his current position, Boente served as the acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia from 2008 to 2009.

Senator Mary Landrieu says she will forward a short list of qualified candidates for the position to Holder and the White House in coming weeks after she consults with local officials and leaders of the legal community.

Holder commended Letten for his "unwavering commitment to the people of his district and the nation."  The Attorney General says Letten worked "tirelessly" to reduce violent crime, fight public corruption and protect civil rights.

"He has been a valued partner, dedicated public servant and a good friend, and I am grateful for his service to the department over these many years."