Scientist arrested for p£isoning co-worker shoes and water bottle with chemicals over promotion at work

A 41-year-old researcher, Makoto Kuroda, has been arrested for allegedly contaminating a colleague’s belongings with laboratory chemicals following a workplace dispute.

According to a press release from the University of Wisconsin–Madison Police Department, officers responded to a research laboratory on the university’s campus after receiving reports of “an unknown odour coming from items in an office.”

Upon arrival, authorities discovered suspicious items that later tested positive “for the presence of a chemical.”

Kuroda reportedly worked at the UW-Madison Influenza Research Institute alongside the victim since 2017.

According to local outlet WISC, Kuroda allegedly sent a message to a coworker confessing to the act, stating:
“I did it,”

“I have also informed the person himself.”

Following his arrest, he reportedly told police that his actions were motivated by frustration after the victim received a promotion he had wanted.

He also allegedly cited additional grievances, including concerns about the colleague not consistently wearing a lab coat or protective goggles.

Investigators say Kuroda admitted to placing chemical substances in the victim’s belongings, including a water bottle and shoes. He reportedly detailed the substances and quantities used, noting that certain chemicals involved could pose serious health risks if ingested.

Authorities further stated that he has been banned from all campus laboratories.

Kuroda has since been charged with second-degree reckless endangering safety as investigations continue.

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