Federal prosecutors say a utility company blamed for a series of natural gas explosions in Massachusetts has agreed to plead guilty to breaking pipeline safety laws.
FILE - In this Sep. 21, 2018, file photo, fire investigators pause while searching the debris at a home which exploded following a gas line failure in Lawrence, Mass. The U.S. Attorney's office in Boston announced Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020, that Columbia Gas Columbia agreed to plead guilty to violating the Pipeline Safety Act following an investigation into the catastrophic gas explosions.
"Today’s settlement is a sobering reminder that if you decide to put profits before public safety, you will pay the consequences," FBI Agent Joseph Bonavolonta said.“Today’s resolution with the U.S. Attorney’s Office is an important part of addressing the impact," the company wrote. “Our focus remains on enhancing safety, regaining the trust of our customers and ensuring that quality service is delivered.
The explosions and fires outraged the communities of Lawrence, Andover and North Andover, where thousands of homes and businesses went without gas service for weeks, and months in some cases, during the winter. Residents and public officials lashed out at the company for not adequately responding and called for officials to be held accountable.
Lawrence Mayor Dan Rivera praised the plea deal, saying it will be a “great day” when Columbia Gas no longer exists.The National Transportation Safety Board blamed the explosions on overpressurized gas lines, saying the company failed to account for critical pressure sensors as workers replaced century-old cast-iron pipes in Lawrence. That omission caused high-pressure gas to flood the neighborhood’s distribution system at excessive levels.
Brasil Últimas Notícias, Brasil Manchetes
Similar News:Você também pode ler notícias semelhantes a esta que coletamos de outras fontes de notícias.
US Supreme Court denies Apple's bid to avoid paying $440 million damages in patent fightThe US Supreme Court has declined to consider Apple's appeal to avoid paying nearly $440 million to technology licensing company VirnetX for violations of its patents
Consulte Mais informação »
Home Depot shares rise after earnings top estimates, backs 2020 business outlookHome Depot's earnings report will shed light on whether its significant investments in the company are paying off.
Consulte Mais informação »
Trump Says 2 Liberal Supreme Court Justices — Including RBG — Should Recuse from Trump CasesTrump Says 2 Liberal Supreme Court Justices — Including RBG — Should Recuse from 'Trump Related' Cases
Consulte Mais informação »
I’m A Stay-At-Home Mom, Not A Stay-At-Home MaidNowhere in my title have I been labeled a stay-at-home maid.
Consulte Mais informação »
5 things every homeowner should know before buying a house - Business InsiderThere's way more to home ownership than just a monthly mortgage payment. Expect to spend money in these five other ways — at minimum.
Consulte Mais informação »