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Former Gov. Rick Snyder charged with two counts of willful neglect of duty in Flint water investigation

LANSING, Mich. – Tuesday the Associated Press confirmed former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder, his health director and other ex–officials were told they’re being charged after a new investigation into the flint water crisis.

“When you look at this whole community, physically, mentally, emotionally, has been changed forever, because of governor Snyder and others,” said former Mayor of Flint Karen Weaver.

After Tuesdays news of a new investigation into the flint water crisis, the associated press was able to confirm that former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder and some of his formerstaff will be charged in some fashion.

A statement released by Snyder and his legal team accuses the official of special counsel for needing a “scapegoat, and wasting time and money” on — quote — “a fruitless investigation.” It said, rather than following the evidence to find the truth it appears to be targeting Snyder for a political escapade.

An escape that Weaver said he’s responsible for.

“You know we’ve been asking for this and begging for this and fighting for accountability because we know what happened in flint was criminal,” said Weaver. “That’s all we’ve ever said is this is a crime.”

A crime she said is equivalent to manslaughter and even murder. After the city’s water was switched from the Detroit water system to the flint river in 20–4 under the Snyder administration.

That change created more problems to the city’s water system, causing lead to leach out of the lines and contaminate water coming from the tap. Around 100 thousand residents drank that water.

“We want to make sure that everyone who’s responsible for any ill acts on this community be held to the fullest merit of law,” said Mayor of Flint Sheldon Neeley.

“We’re still waiting to see the total impact of what was done at his hands,” said Weaver.

Tuesday lawyers for Snyder said they are unclear of what charges may be filed against the former governor.

However, late Wednesday it was announced that Snyder will be formally charged with two counts of willful neglect of duty.