The Michigan Supreme Court has declined to revive charges against former Governor Rick Snyder (R) in connection with the Flint water crisis, effectively bringing an end to the efforts to hold public officials accountable for the lead exposure that affected Flint residents.
Prosecutors expressed their disappointment with the court's decision, describing it as the "nail in the coffin" for their prosecutorial endeavors.
Snyder had been charged with two counts of willful neglect of duty in relation to the water crisis. However, these charges were dismissed in December due to concerns raised by the state's Supreme Court regarding the indictment procedure used in the case. With the court's refusal to revive the charges against Snyder, prosecutors have stated that they have no choice but to consider the Flint Water Prosecutions closed.
Prosecutors have announced their intention to release a comprehensive report in 2024, detailing their efforts in addressing the crisis. The Hill has reached out to Snyder's legal team for comment, but no response has been received at this time.
Last month, the state's high court also declined to revive charges against other public officials involved in the Flint water crisis. It is important to note that these dismissals do not affect the ongoing civil litigation. In a settlement finalized earlier this year, Flint residents were awarded a total of over $600 million.
The contamination of Flint's drinking water occurred when the city switched its water supply to the Flint River in 2014. Insufficient treatment of the water led to the leaching of lead from pipes, resulting in approximately 99,000 residents being exposed to this toxic substance.
Lead exposure can cause severe damage to the brain and nervous system, particularly in children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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