Obscure Alderman Gets Threatening Letter

Michael Zalewski, alderman of the 23rd Ward (that's on the West side of Midway, folks), received a suspicious letter at his ward office yesterday morning.

The return address read: "FOP member, black Ford Explorer," and included what appeared to be a license place number, Zalewski said. Detectives and evidence technicians responded to Zalewski's office and confiscated the letter.

"They told me they didn't think the powder was anything lethal or poison," Zalewski said.

Zalewski said he's not sure why he would be the target of threats, especially from someone claiming to be associated with the Fraternal Order of Police.

"I'd think it would be the opposite. When I passed the ordinance increasing the fine for having tinted windows, the response I got from some police officers was, 'Thank you for looking out for our safety,' " Zalewski said. "I have no clue about this one."

Back in June an handful of local elected officials also received suspicious letters threatening Mayor Daley's son, Patrick, and Cook County chief financial officer Donna Dunnings.