FBI Probes White Powder Letters Sent to Maryland Lawmakers
Federal agents are examining suspicious mailings received by state and federal officials ahead of the November 3 elections.
By Giovanni Serrano ·
Federal investigators are analyzing suspicious mailings sent to Maryland government offices this month.
The FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service launched a joint probe after letters containing a white powder reached officials in several states. The mailings first surfaced in Louisiana and Oklahoma before expanding nationwide.
In Maryland, the Elections Administrator Jared DeMarinis confirmed that law enforcement intercepted a letter addressed to his office. This action followed heightened screening protocols implemented in the state. Both state U.S. senators and at least five of the eight House members acknowledged receiving similar packages.
Rep. Kweisi Mfume noted that a letter arrived at his Baltimore office. His team has asked postal inspectors for details on the investigation and current security steps. Rep. Johnny Olszewski’s staff found and isolated a package before notifying authorities. Rep. Steny Hoyer reported that a letter was delivered to his Greenbelt district office.
Not all offices received mail. Rep. Andy Harris’ team said they did not get a letter, while other congressional offices chose not to comment. Investigators have not yet identified a sender or a specific motive for the campaign.
Lab results showed the white powder inside the envelopes was nontoxic, though authorities have not publicly named the substance. DeMarinis stated that the threats would not stop election officials from performing their duties or ensuring voters can safely participate in the upcoming vote.
Source: WOLB
