Ricin is a highly toxic poison derived from castor beans that can cause cell death and extreme morbidity when inhaled, ingested, or injected. Death is reported to occur within thirty-six to seventy-two hours after exposure and can spread through fomites.
In 2008, Roger Von Bergendorff was hospitalized for ricin exposure. After investigation, anarchy-related books, weapons, as well as small traces of ricin were found in his hotel room, which made local and federal authorities suspicious of Bergendorff’s intent in experimenting with ricin. Bergendorff rejected any claims suggesting that he had the intention to harm others.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) were sent to determine the state of Bergendorff’s exposure, considering that the ricin that poisoned him may have spread to other parts of the hotel and nearby storage units. Authorities and multiple agencies worked to conduct thorough room searches, decontaminate surrounding areas, and evacuate people. The threat was successfully contained and Roger Von Bergendorff received a prison sentence on ricin possession.