American linked to terror attacks in Spain released

PORTLAND, Ore. -- A lawyer who had been arrested two weeks ago in connection with the terror attacks in Spain was set free Thursday after evidence pointed to another suspect in the deadly bombings. Brandon Mayfield's release came soon after Spanish officials said fingerprints found on a bag near the bombing site were that of an Algerian. U.S. authorities had previously said the prints were Mayfield's. The bag contained detonators similar to those used in the March 11 bombings.

"I want to thank my friends and family for what I'll call a harrowing ordeal," Mayfield said as he walked out the federal courthouse in downtown Portland holding a Koran and grasping his wife's hand.

"It proves it was a total witchhunt," said his brother, Kent Mayfield.

Mayfield had been arrested as a material witness and has not been charged. It is not clear whether the investigation against him has been dropped.

Beth Anne Steele, a spokeswoman for the FBI in Portland, did not immediately return calls seeking comment.

Steve Wax, Mayfield's attorney, said a gag order issued by a federal judge remained in place, and he could not discuss details.