1 Hospitalized After Suspicious Powder Found At Rhode Island Secretary Of State's Office

PROVIDENCE, RI — One person was hospitalized after suspicious powder was found at the Rhode Island Secretary of State's Office Friday, an official said.

"Providence Fire Department’s HazMat team responded and is handling the situation in coordination with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, with support from the Rhode Island State Police," Kristy dosReis, the chief public information officer for the Providence Department of Public Safety, said in an email.

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"One individual was transported to a local hospital out of an abundance of caution," dosReis said. "The individual was not exhibiting symptoms at the time of transport. At this time, there is no credible threat."

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Faith Chybowski, the director of communications and public affairs for the secretary of state's office, said in an email the Rhode Island Department of State’s Elections Division received a suspicious envelope.

"In line with their training, Department of State staff immediately alerted emergency services, including the Rhode Island State Police and FBI," Chybowski said. "The facility was cleared while law enforcement responded."

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Chybowski said Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore "condemned the incident, stating, 'While we wait to learn more, one thing is clear — this was an attempt to frighten the dedicated public servants who keep Rhode Island’s elections safe, secure, and fair."

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"I have no tolerance for threats, intimidation, or acts of violence against our staff, and I remain committed to doing everything I can to keep them safe," Amore said. "I thank law enforcement and emergency services for their swift response."

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