U.S. Secret Service director Pierson resigns under fire

WASHINGTON - U.S. Secret Service Director Julia Pierson resigned under fire on Wednesday after a series of security lapses came to light involving the protection for President Barack Obama.

Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson announced Pierson's resignation and said Joseph Clancy, a veteran of the agency, was named acting director.

White House spokesman Josh Earnest said Obama had called Pierson to express his appreciation to her for her long years of service.

He said Obama had concluded that new leadership was needed at the agency after a number of security lapses, including a White House fence-jumper who managed to enter the front door of the mansion on Sept. 19 and get into the ceremonial East Room before off-duty agents stopped him.