Feds pull Spitzer's security clearance

By Jonathan Dienst, WNBC Investigative Correspondent
 
The FBI and Homeland Security officials revoked Governor Eliot Spitzer's security clearance early this week as the criminal investigation into Spitzer's alleged use of prostitutes broadened, according to officials familiar with the case.  As a result, Spitzer no longer has access to classified intelligence and security briefings, federal officials told WNBC on condition of anonymity.  A spokeswoman for Spitzer did not return calls for comment.
 
Spitzer's security clearance was pulled on Tuesday, just one day after his alleged connection to the alleged prostitution ring became public. One federal source said Lt. Governor David Paterson is now being cleared for security briefings. 
 
Spitzer still can be told of potential threats, such as the new but uncorroborated Al Qaeda threat against Wall Street and other financial institutions, in order to help deploy resources if necessary.  This latest non-specific threat information about New York suggests a possible attack sometime in March, officials have said. 

Spitzer is set to resign from office on Monday. Federal prosecutors in Manhattan continue to look into whether the Governor committed crimes when he allegedly paid thousands of dollars to have a prostitute meet him at a Washington, D.C., hotel. He allegedly paid $4,300 for the February 13 rendezvous. Investigators are looking into whether Spitzer illegally tried to conceal at least $15,000 in payments to the escort service, sources familiar with the case have said. Spitzer has not denied the escort-service allegations in his public comments to date, instead referring only to his "personal failings." Investigators also want to know if Spitzer used any campaign cash or state funds for the alleged trysts, the sources added.