My thought goes along those lines. Using him as placeholder bait. Allowing derps to think they are in the clear in SDNY because they "put one over" on PDJT and Sessions. Keeping them comfortable enough not to panic and run. In reality allowing time to do the background casework, letting the derps/criminals get nice and secure. I think that's what you are saying but it's what I've been speculating since Juneteenth.
You said it better than I did.