For Immediate Release

Blair Weyer, Community Relations Specialist

Aspen Police Department

506 E Main Street, Suite 102 | Aspen, Colorado 81611

blair.weyer@aspenpd.org | www.aspenpolice.com

Media Questions: (970) 315-2478 | Main Office: (970) 920-5400

Suspicious Package Determined Safe

ASPEN, CO – 1/13/2010 – Around 6:00p.m. the Grand Junction Bomb Squad determined that a suspicious package delivered to the Pitkin County Courthouse earlier today did not contain an explosive device. After inspecting the package using a portable x-ray device the bomb squad determined it did not contain dangerous materials. Further inspection revealed that it contained only paper documents. In the interest of the public’s safety, the package was moved to the Pitkin County Jail and secured awaiting arrival of the Grand Junction Bomb Squad.

The package, which arrived at the courthouse earlier today, was considered a potential threat after it was linked to a suspicious phone call received at a Pitkin County Government Office on January 12, 2010. The caller from Wednesday was determined to be the sender of the package, therefore all necessary precautions were taken to protect the safety of employees and visitors to Aspen and Pitkin County government buildings. The name of the individual who sent the package will not be released, pending further investigation.

The Grand Junction Bomb Squad, Aspen Ambulance, Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office, and Aspen Police Department presented a coordinated effort in response to this situation. Consultation was also received from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI.

No additional information or press releases will be issued at this.

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