The FBI announced today that Special Agent in Charge Jim Bernazzani retired from the FBI effective today.

Bernazzani has been the New Orleans Special Agent in Charge for the past three years, and has worked with the U.S. District Attorney's Office to make high profile cases against government corruption and violent crime.

He was recalled to Washington recently after stating that he might be interested in making a run for political office in New Orleans.

Bernazzani began working as a FBI Special Agent on in 1984. He served as SAC in the New Orleans Division for the past three years.

Mr. Bernazzani was awarded the 2006 Presidential Award for Meritorious Service.

Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Mark Gant will serve as the Acting/SAC.