The Anthrax Files

Coming on the heels of the terrorist attacks of 9/11, a deadly strain of anthrax was mailed to Congress and other institutions, resulting in the deaths of several people and leading to a costly investigation by the FBI. Was this another example of overseas terrorism coming to our shores or could the answer be found closer to home? Co-produced by ProPublica and McClatchy Newspapers, director Michael Kirk's PBS-aired Frontline program explores the massive inquiry that ensued. Although under intense pressure from President Bush to close the case, the FBI was poorly prepared to handle biological terrorism. Slowly realizing that this might be an inside job, the Bureau focused on a researcher named Dr. Steven Hatfill, who became the target of an inquiry featuring public surveillance, searches and seizures, the use of bloodhounds, and even the draining of a local pond the FBI felt had been used as an underwater lab. Hatfill fought back, suing for invasion of privacy, and ultimately received a multimillion dollar settlement. Attention shifted to Dr. Bruce Ivins, an anthrax researcher who ironically consulted with the government's investigation. A man with a good work record but also a history of psychiatric problems, Ivins was subjected to harassment, but while he denied involvement, the harried researcher would eventually kill himself. Now, several years after his death, journalists and investigators are casting doubt on the mostly circumstantial evidence. A probing documentary, this is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)