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November 22, 2008 12:33:09 CST

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DNA Links Scientist to Anthrax Attacks

Posted Aug 4, 08 6:16 CDT in US,  Science & Health,  Crime & Courts 

(Newser) – Investigators have DNA evidence that links biodefense expert Bruce Ivins to the deadly 2001 anthrax attacks, but the case is largely circumstantial, the New York Times reports. Prosecutors have linked the anthrax used in mailings targeting news networks, newspapers, and Congress with a flask used by Ivins at his Maryland lab, but at least 10 people had access to the flask, a source tells the Times. Ivins is also linked to prestamped envelopes used in the attack, which were sold at a Maryland post office he frequented.

Records also show extensive after-hours use of his lab around the time the letters were mailed, the source said. Ivins, 62, committed suicide last week on the day he was scheduled to discuss a plea deal. Authorities are expected to officially release evidence against him as early as this week, before closing the invesigation.

Sources New York Times, CNN

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Bruce Ivins, the biodefense expert who committed suicide as investigators were closing in on him for the 2001 anthrax attacks.   (AP Photo/U.S.Army)
Bruce Ivins, the biodefense expert who committed suicide as investigators were closing in on him for the 2001 anthrax attacks.   (AP Photo/Frederick News Post, Sam Yu)
Bruce Ivins gives a juggling demonstration at Mullinix Park in Frederick, Md. in 1983. Federal prosecutors investigating the 2001 anthrax attacks were planning to indict and seek the death penalty against,...   (AP Photo)
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anthrax • 9/11 attacks • DNA evidence • Bruce Ivins • bioterrorism • Fort Detrick • biodefense


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