Press Releases
09/17/2024
Suspicious Envelope Intercepted at USPS Facility in West Hartford
Late yesterday afternoon, the Office of the Secretary of the State (SOTS) was alerted by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) about envelopes containing an unidentified white powder that were sent to and received by elections offices across the country.
As an immediate response, SOTS worked to prepare staff on the possible receipt of one of these envelopes, including protocols on the proper handling of hazardous materials and ensuring protective gear is in place. The Office also notified the Connecticut Intelligence Center (CTIC), which is the designated fusion center for the State of Connecticut. Fusion centers serve as the focal point for the receipt, analysis, and sharing of threat-related information between State, Local, Tribal and Territorial (SLTT), federal, and private sector entities.
This morning, SOTS was notified by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) intercepted an envelope at a USPS facility in West Hartford that matched the description of suspicious envelopes received by other offices. It has been sent to the state lab for processing.
“I want to thank USPIS, the FBI, CISA, and CTIC for their quick action and work to protect the people of Connecticut,” said Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas. “For almost two years, we have been working as a team preparing for events such as this and we are now seeing why that work has been so important.”
The FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service are currently investigating the matter.
Anyone who observes any suspicious activity that could endanger others is asked to report it by calling 866-HLS-TIPS (866-457-8477) or sending an email to CTIC@CT.gov. Anyone who observes suspicious activity around mailboxes or mail should report it to USPS by calling: 877-876-2455.
###
- Twitter: Secretary of State on Twitter
- Facebook: Secretary of State on Facebook