The following is quoted from an August 31, 1995, letter from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

Department of the Treasury
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
Washington, DC 20226
August 31, 1995

Mr. Fred Phelps
Westboro Baptist Church
Post Office Box 1886
Topeka, Kansas 66604

Dear Mr. Phelps:

This is in response to your letter dated August 23, 1995, to Secretary of the Treasury Robert Rubin. In your letter you expressed concern about the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) not being involved in the investigation of a vandalism, involving explosives, which occurred at your residence and church on August 20, 1995, in Topeka, Kansas.

As you now know, our Kansas City Field Division does have an open investigation in relation to this incident, and in an attempt to thoroughly resolve this matter, is pursuing all available leads. Since this is an ongoing investigation, we are not at liberty to discuss the specifics of this case.

We can assure you that this investigation, as with all explosive-related incidents, is one of ATF’s highest priorities, and is being diligently pursued.

We hope this information has been responsive to your inquiry. If further information is required, please contact us.

Sincerely yours,

R.E. Chase
For Ralph C. Ostrowski
Chief, Arson and Explosives Division