August 22, 2007: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Acting Chief of Investigations Joseph A. Cannatella confirm an investigation in the Township of Pequannock regarding the recovery of a suspicious substance found inside of an envelope mailed to the Pequannock Township Police Department.

The matter in under investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Township of Pequannock Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Service and Joint Terrorism Task Force. Prosecutor Bianchi confirms that the preliminary investigation reveals that a letter with the term "anthrax" was found inside along with a number of honey colored "bb like" pellets. Recovery of the substance is underway following an evacuation of the building for the safety of the employees therein. The substance will then be preliminarily tested and eventually final confirmation as to the nature of the substance should occur within 72 hours of its collection.

Prosecutor Bianchi and Chief Cannatella have authorized the dispatch of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Mobile Command Center, a sophisticated communication facility, to ensure that there is no interruption in communication and so that full police services can continue to be provided to the citizens.

Preliminary inquiry has found that there is no concern to the public at large with respect to this matter.

Further updates will be provided upon receipt of same.

If anyone has any further information they are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio
(973) 285-6222