While many were quick to connect the Boston Marathon explosions on Monday to the potentially poisonous letters intercepted in Washington on Tuesday, that is not the case.
Police traced the letters to a suspect, 45-year-old Paul Kevin Curtis from Mississippi. He was charged with sending letters laced with ricin to both President Barack Obama and Senator Roger Wicker. A third letter sent to a Mississippi judge is still being tested for ricin.
Those who know Curtis described him as someone who has been struggling with mental illness for many years, and has claimed to uncover conspiracy theories.
While we do not know what type of mental illness Curtis is faced with, and the ricin is not as severe as originally thought, is this enough to dismiss him of potentially trying to harm leaders in Washington? What types of precautions should be taken to prevent future incidents?
Alyssa M. Brown 