Low-level ATF agents have a lot of power. They coordinated a rogue operation between the ATF, FBI, DEA, DOJ, DHS, BP, ICE and the IRS. Not only that, but they are able to keep their bosses from firing them, or even investigating their activities very stringently. (unless of course, they suggest that the higher ups have some responsibility. Then they are savagely attacked)
When power appears to increase as you go down the chain of command I think that means
someone is vigorously pushing responsibility down and away from himself. But that person would have to be insulated from any command above himself or be fully supported by it.
Who Can It Be Now?