(WXYZ) — Facing harsh criticism for his team’s handling of the Flint water crisis, former state Attorney General Bill Schuette is firing back against his replacement in office.
Schuette made it clear he’s not hiding. In fact, he’s never been more sure of his work for the people of Flint.
“Andy Arena. Todd Flood. David Leyton. Judge Whitbeck. Judge David Hort. Others involved. These are quality folks. I’m not going to let anybody disparage their reputation or integrity,” says Schuette.
Schuette also adds that accusations his team built a case on a “flawed” foundation are false.
“We had 59 charges against 15 people. Got 5 conviction and were ready to go to trial on 2 more,” says Schuette.
As for the amount of money spent by his team, he says, “Wherever this 30 million dollar figure came from, it certainly doesn’t apply to the prosecution and investigation of Flint.”
Critics have also focused on the fact no one has served prison time nor paid a fine. Schuette says the reality is his team always focused on justice and stayed away from politics. He tells us he still believes the crisis killed 12 people and poisoned thousands.
As for the decision not to question the Governor, he says, “You start from the ground and go up. Go forward to where the facts lead you and that’s what we’re doing in a very methodical way.”
He also says the current legal team simply lacks the courtroom experience of the prior group.
He insists any claims evidence was not pursued and documents not reviewed are also untrue.
This Friday, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy and Solicitor General Fadwa Hammoud will meet with the people of Flint as this case continues to move forward.
