Tripp Returns to Pentagon Work, in Different Job

Linda Tripp, the woman whose secret taping of Monica S. Lewinsky provoked the scandal that led to the impeachment of President Clinton, is finally heading back to work for the Pentagon--although in an office miles from the five-sided building.

Tripp is expected to begin work today as a public affairs specialist for the Defense Manpower Data Center, the Pentagon’s research arm based in Rosslyn, Va., said a Defense official who requested anonymity.

The 49-year-old Columbia, Md., resident remains a political appointee and will earn $94,098, the same salary she has been receiving as a public affairs specialist for the Pentagon’s Joint Civilian Orientation Conference. The conference provides tours of military bases for civilian leaders.

Since the Lewinsky scandal broke early last year, Tripp has been working out of her home, drafting a report on her job at the JCOC. The Defense official said that Tripp would probably work in the policy and plans section and not directly with the public.

Tripp still faces an investigation by the Maryland state prosecutor for her taping. It is illegal in Maryland to tape-record conversations without both parties’ consent.