The Michigan attorney general’s office announced the termination of the state’s prosecution of former Gov. Rick Snyder and other officials regarding the Flint water crisis. This decision followed the state Supreme Court’s refusal to hear appeals of a lower court’s dismissal of misdemeanor charges against Snyder. The Supreme Court previously ruled the prosecution method was unconstitutional, making the charges invalid. However, as a separate measure, the state agreed to a $626 million settlement for those harmed by the lead-tainted water.
Key Points:
- The Michigan Supreme Court declined to hear appeals against the dismissal of misdemeanor charges related to the Flint water scandal, ending the state’s prosecution of former Gov. Rick Snyder and other officials.
- The prosecution method, using a one-judge grand jury, was deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, invalidating the charges.
- Former Gov. Rick Snyder was charged with willful neglect of duty in connection to the crisis where Flint River water corroded old pipes, leading to lead contamination.
- The prosecution team has expressed plans to release a comprehensive report detailing their actions and decisions next year.
- A separate $626 million settlement was agreed upon by the state to compensate residents and property owners harmed by the lead-contaminated water, with a significant portion designated for children.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2023/10/31/1209750922/flint-water-rick-snyder-michigan-prosecution
