Dana Nessel, Michigan's attorney general, has dropped all charges in connection to the Flint water crisis, according to Fox 2 Detroit. The charges were dropped without prejudice, meaning new charges can still be filed in the future.

“The depth and breadth of concern for a fair and just prosecution and justice for the people of Flint is precisely why I appointed and entrusted Solicitor General Fadwa Hammoud and Wayne County Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy to lead the Flint criminal cases," Nessel said in a statement released shortly after the news broke. "I trust them, and if this step is necessary for them to do a comprehensive and complete investigation, I am in absolute support."


Under former Attorney General Bill Schuette and special prosecutor Todd Flood, 15 people were charged, according to the Detroit Free Press. After seven pleaded no contest to misdemeanors, the eight that remained all had charges dropped Thursday, including a charge of involuntary manslaughter against Nick Lyon, the former director of the Department of Health and Human Services.

Despite the possibility of future charges, State Senator Jim Ananich, a Democrat from Flint, was not pleased with the decision to push for another investigation, arguing that it's time for those involved to be held responsible.

“Let me be clear: I want to see people behind bars. Words cannot express how disappointed I am that justice continues to be delayed and denied to the people of my city," Ananich said to ABC 12. "Months of investigation have turned into years, and the only thing to show for it is a bunch of lawyers who have gotten rich off the taxpayers’ dime."

The sentiment is one that Attorney General Nessel saw coming and attempted to combat in her released statement.

"I want to remind the people of Flint that justice delayed is not always justice denied, and a fearless and dedicated team of career prosecutors and investigators are hard at work to ensure those who harmed you are held accountable,” Nessel said.

Media inquiries have been barred until prosecutors speak directly with residents of Flint, which will take place at a community conversation June 28, according to ABC 12.

Flint water crisis