FBI may be searching for anthrax clues

WASHINGTON, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- The FBI said Thursday that it is searching land in Frederick, Md., in relation to an ongoing criminal investigation that may be related to the anthrax attack that killed five people over a year ago.

A spokesman for Steven Hatfill, who was called a "person of interest" in the investigation into the anthrax attacks, said the former U.S. Army scientist had received calls from the media asking about a possible link with the latest searches.

"Apparently they are searching some kind of a public park near Fort Detrick up there," said Patrick Clawson, Hatfill's spokesman. Media questions, he said, have focused on a connection between Hatfill and the park.

"We don't know anything about it," Clawson said, adding, "Steve has had no contact with the FBI for several weeks."

The FBI continues to talk to Hatfill periodically and follow him, Clawson said.

The U.S. Attorney's Office in Washington and FBI field offices in Washington and Baltimore took part in the search.

A statement from the FBI Washington office said the bureau was conducting forensic searches.

"It is important to note that, based on water, soil and sediment testing already conducted, there is no indication of any risk to the public health or the public safety," the statement said.