Anthrax Hoax Lands 65-Year-Old Woman In Jail

Saturday, July 19, 2003

(6:09 PM ET)

NBC 17 News

GARNER, N.C.
An anthrax threat hit one Garner neighborhood several months ago, but the residents are just now finding out about it.

Raleigh police have charged 65-year-old Rebecca Ann Faison with three felony counts of false nuclear, biological or chemical weapons, and her neighbors can't believe it.

"To think that someone would do something like that is bizarre," said neighbor Wanda Haith.

Haith is no stranger to anthrax scares. She works for Sen. John Edwards' Raleigh office, which was evacuated last year because of a suspicious envelope.

"We still have the mask and still have the gloves and interns are not allowed to open mail because it's still dangerous," she said. "It's absolutely insane, it's still scary."

The news of another scary hoax -- this time in her own neighborhood -- isn't any easier to take.

"It could be in my mailbox," Haith said. "I didn't realize she was in this neighborhood. I mean, I check my mail everyday. It could just be sprinkles."

Police said Faison mailed three letters from her house to neighbors in Garner and Raleigh. The envelopes were filled with a white powdery substance the victims believed was anthrax.

After extensive tests, police determined the power is harmless and not an act of terrorism. Investigators said it's a "domestic situation gone awry."

Neighbors said Faison is friendly, often chatting about lawn tips and bringing fresh vegetables to her friends.

"You might know your neighborhood but then you don't know your neighbor," said neighbor Helen Chavis. "You know what I'm saying?"

Now those living here are questioning their safety -- even with a policeman living on their block and a police station right around the corner.

Faison spent Friday night in jail, but she was with her mother Saturday after posting $2,000 in bail.
(Source: NBC 17 News)
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Rough neighborhoods abound -- where you least expect them,
Dan