The investigation into suspicious letters mailed to Kansas lawmakers and other public officials has leveled up, in a manner of speaking.
The Kansas Bureau of Investigation says the scope of the investigation has now expanded outside of Kansas, so the Federal Bureau of Investigation will now be the lead agency. The FBI was already involved from the start of the investigation, which was announced Friday, along with several state agencies, local law enforcement agencies and local fire departments. The KBI says it has utilized over 60 special agents, forensic scientists and employees involved in collecting or screening evidence as well as managing and tracking incident response. It also says 17 hazardous materials teams and 12 bomb squads have been involved in the investigation.
Early results indicate no “biological agents of common concern” have been involved with the powders. At least 100 letters going out to lawmakers have been confirmed, but the KBI says it’s important for everybody to be vigilant when handling mail. Residents finding any unknown white powders in their mail can report directly to the KBI at 800-KS-CRIME or the FBI, either by calling 800-CALL-FBI or by going online to tips.fbi.gov.
