Bonn's public prosecutor confirmed an inquiry was under way into several members of the armed forces for inciting racial hatred and assault.

A local television news broadcast reported the contact with Mr. Merlino, which prosecutors have not confirmed.

But neither the F.B.I. nor prosecutors would confirm that incident or speculate about what might have prompted the kidnapping.

Local prosecutors had earlier confirmed that the gates were opened, but stated that it was too early to determine whether this was the cause of the flooding.

Although federal prosecutors confirmed the existence of the investigation, they declined to comment yesterday on whether they believe a recording device was ever planted and used.

Investigators have a new suspect in the slayings of five Florida college students last August, a prosecutor confirmed today.

But the prosecutors have confirmed only that they are conducting some tests involving blood found at the crime scene and elsewhere.

In February 2013, British prosecutors confirmed that no charges would be laid against Greig and Christian.

Mr. Sims gave that recording to the Brooklyn district attorney's office, the prosecutors confirmed.

South African prosecutors later confirmed to local press that Shrien was not presently a suspect.