An Iowa postal inspector has had few relaxing moments in recent days with the growing paranoia over anthrax.
Linda Jensen says the old adage of “it’s better to be safe than sorry” does still apply — but there are plenty of Iowans who’re very concerned about being safe. The Des Moines postal inspector has responded to countless scares about powdery substances found in Iowa mail, but nothing hazardous.
Jensen warns anyone who’s thinking of trying to scare someone else with a practical joke about anthrax in a letter or package could very quickly find themselves facing a federal prison term.
She’s heard all sorts of frenzied reports from people finding something suspicious in their mail — but it was nothing dangerous. All of the Iowa incidents have been harmless things like powdered pudding, cocoa or talcum powder.