Wednesday, April 16, 2008 | 6:35 p.m.
LAS VEGAS (AP) _ An unemployed graphic designer who authorities believe was nearly killed by ricin has been charged in federal court with possessing the deadly toxin.
Speaking from a wheelchair, 57-year-old Roger Bergendorff told a judge in his initial court appearance that it was ``not in my blood'' to use the deadly poison. His lawyer cut him off before he could explain.
Bergendorff was arrested Wednesday when he was released from a Las Vegas hospital where he'd been treated since Feb. 14.
He's charged with possession of a biological toxin and two weapons offenses. The charges that could get him 30 years in prison if convicted.
Federal Magistrate Peggy Leen ordered Bergendorff to held in federal custody until a preliminary hearing May 2.
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