Sentencing to Commence in West Virginia Chemical Accident

In early January 2014, a peculiar smell was noticed in the town of Charleston, West Virginia. Along the Elk River, residents began to detect a “licorice odor” coming up from the water. According to an article published by the S.F. Gate, the drinking water of some 300,000 West Virginians was compromised.

The article mentioned that thousands of gallons of a coal-cleaning agent was the culprit in a chemical spill. As a result, a state of emergency was issued and residents were told to restrict their water use to “flushing toilets and putting out fires”, showing just how drastic things had become.

Two years later, sentencing is now underway for the individuals who are being held responsible for the “negligent discharge”. Shortly after residents were advised to limit their water usage, the company in charge of the site filed for bankruptcy. While more sentences are scheduled, residents are still reeling from the effects.

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