Another White Powder Found At Idaho Statehouse Complex
For the second time this month, a white powdery substance has been found in the Idaho Capitol Complex. The latest incident occurred Tuesday morning in the mail room in the parking structure northeast of the Statehouse.
According to Boise Police, a small amount of a questionable powder was found on a bundle of letters. A hazardous materials team was called in to investigate. The entire street in downtown Boise was closed as emergency crews responded. The building was not evacuated, but three state employees who were in the mail room when the substance was found were quarantined. Shortly after 10 a.m., investigators determined the suspicious substance did not pose a threat. The powder may have come from a residue off the rubber bands around the letters, or possibly even dust from mail processing equipment. The all clear was given and the affected workers were allowed to return to their jobs. This is the second incident involving a white powder at the Capitol this month. On November 9th, an employee in the Idaho Attorney General's Office opened an envelope that had a white powder in it and a note with a bomb threat. Investigators say the note said the powder was anthrax, but it turned out to be crushed aspirin. At last word, no one has been arrested in the case.