/https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/5f665ddc4aa19221f1052c30/0x0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=4990&cropY1=0&cropY2=3327&w=1200&resize=1200,800&ssl=1 "Package With Poisonous Ricin Sent To White House Intercepted By Law Enforcement")
Topline
The FBI and Secret Service are investigating a package containing the poison ricin and addressed to President Donald Trump that was intercepted by law enforcement earlier this week, according to media reports, as tensions rise in the waning days of the 2020 Presidential campaign.
The US flag flies at half-mast above the White House in Washington, DC, on September 19, 2020 after … [+]
AFP via Getty Images
Key Facts
Two tests were done to confirm the presence of ricin, a poison that can be made from the waste left over from processing castor beans, two law enforcement officials told CNN.
All White House mail is sorted and screened at an offsite facility before reaching the White House.
The New York Times described the container as an envelope, reportedly sent from Canada, while CNN referred to it as a package.
Ricin, a highly toxic compound that has been used in terror plots, and can be used in powder, pellet, mist or acid form.
It can cause death by a collapse of the circulatory system.
Forbes has reached out to the White House and Secret Service for comment.
Key Background
The marks the latest security scare at the White House, following an incident last month when a shooting occurred near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, a few blocks away from the White House, causing the President to interrupt his press briefing on the Coronavirus pandemic . He was temporarily escorted from the briefing room by the Secret Service.
Note: this story is breaking and will be updated.
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