Powder in envelope just crushed pain pill

Tools

By The Associated Press

Story Published: Mar 12, 2010 at 9:59 AM MST

Story Updated: Mar 12, 2010 at 9:59 AM MST

HELENA - Helena police say the white powder in an envelope that was mailed to the Department of Labor was a pain relief tablet that likely accidentally fell into the envelope before a Butte woman mailed some paperwork to the state.

Assistant Police Chief Dave Jeseritz says the possible "triggering device" was a lollipop stick.

When the envelope was opened Tuesday and the powder was released, three state workers and a Helena police officer were isolated for several hours while emergency response workers performed an initial test on the substance that ruled it out as a threat to safety.

Jeseritz says it is suspected that the pill and the lollipop stick fell into the envelope as the woman carried it around in her purse for about a week before mailing it. No charges will be filed.

Missoula

Icon
Current Temp 13.0 °F
Fair
Wind : Southwest at 4.6 MPH (4 KT)
Pressure : 1029.1 mb
Humidity : 88 %
More Weather

Butte

Icon
Current Temp 4.0 °F
Fair
Wind : Calm
Pressure : 1028.8 mb
Humidity : 83 %
More Weather

On Demand

Stock Quotes
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Poll

Do you think Montana's DUI laws need to be tougher?

  • Yes
  • No

AP Video