With the sad death of Dr. Bruce Ivins, 62 years old, a FBI suspect in the anthrax investigation; many people are wondering just who he was. He was a researcher in the area of infectionous diseases at Fort Detrick, MD for thirty years. He appeared somewhat mild and dressed somewhat socially awkward. Some people who knew him say he was a brilliant and dedicated scientist; and find it hard to believe that he could be seriously considered a suspect.
He was a son, a father, brother and a husband; his family is surely grieving and confused. He has been under investigation by the FBI for some time now in regards to the release of anthrax spores back in 2001 through mail that was contaminated. Dr. Bruce Ivins was not the only suspect; in fact, Steven Hatfill was recently awarded millions because of the damage done to him personally and professionally when his name was released publically, as a suspect earlier in the investigation.
At least for the last year or so, Dr. Ivins has been under intense investigation. Reports have surfaced that he was receiving counseling. Obviously, the whys and what fors are confidential. But the stress involved in being investigated by the FBI would be overwhelming for most people…but someone who truly was mild and somewhat socially ill at ease and concerned about his public/professional reputation may have just been too much. He allegedly comitted suicide.
This now brings to light the Dr. Jeckel (Jeckyll) or Mr. Hyde comparisson; because other portions of his personality are in question. Sources have told the media that Dr. Ivins knew that charges were being filed against him not only in the anthrax investigation; but also, as recently as July 24th, he was ordered by the court to stay away from an unnamed female. He was told not to harm her, not to contact her and not to be present where she worked.
I read the other day something to the effect that the counselor/psychologist who was treating him was to testify in court against him regarding threats of homicide towards another individual. Dr. Ivins was supposed to be at court two days after he passed away, supposedly from an overdose of tylenol with codeine.
From what i understand, overdosing on tylenol with codeine is not a quick death. It causes quite a bit of pain and takes time to shut down the liver and such. It is somewhat difficult to understand why a scientist would choose to commit suicide in such a manner, if indeed, that is what happened. There are some who have questioned that. Conspiracy theorists are already at work asking; did he truly commit suicide or did he have help? Will we ever know what evidence the FBI had against him…or will it be classified as top secret because of national security?
Without more information such as a suicide note that can be proven to be written by him or some proof…people are going to believe what they want. The problem is…obviously, Dr. Ivins is dead and cannot be asked directly…there will be no court proceedings to reveal the evidence against him; either in the threats or, in the case of the anthrax allegations. So we are left with a duo image of a man, a scientist; maybe a somewhat complicated person just like the rest of us. Do you think we will ever know the truth? How did the anthrax scare affect you?
Update: here is an article that i just read and found fascinating…it sheds more light on the subject! http://deepbackground.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/08/02/1243368.aspx
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