Michigan

Michigan Leads Legal Challenge Against Federal Energy Department’s New Funding Policy, Citing Risks to State Programs

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LANSING, Mich. — Michigan has joined a coalition of more than a dozen states in filing a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Energy over a recent policy directive regarding federal funding for state energy efficiency programs. The policy, issued in May, aims to modify reimbursement rates for costs associated with these programs, prompting concerns among state officials. Federal support typically helps states cover indirect expenses, including staff salaries and office supplies. Previously, states could negotiate reimbursement rates, allowing for a maximum charge of up to 15% of a project’s total funding. However, the newly … Read more

Justice Served: Jury Awards $60 Million to Man Wrongfully Charged by Disgraced Prosecutor in Michigan Case

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DETROIT, Mich. — A jury has awarded nearly $60 million to Sean MacMaster, who claimed that a former Michigan prosecutor and a police officer infringed on his rights by pursuing unfounded sexual abuse charges. The charges were ultimately dismissed by the state attorney general. Prosecutors typically enjoy broad immunity, making it uncommon for them to face lawsuits over their official actions. However, the jury found that Brian Kolodziej and state police Lt. David Busacca acted with “intentional, deliberate or reckless disregard for the truth” in the case against MacMaster. The jury awarded MacMaster $33 million … Read more

Michigan Man Receives $60 Million Victory After Prosecutor Found in Rights Violation Case

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DETROIT — A jury in Michigan has awarded nearly $60 million to a man who claimed his rights were violated during a criminal case. The verdict comes after a protracted legal battle over alleged misconduct by the local prosecutor. The case centers around the experiences of the plaintiff, who argued that the prosecutor’s office engaged in unethical practices that led to a wrongful conviction. After deliberating for several days, the jury found sufficient evidence to support the man’s claims, concluding that his rights were significantly infringed upon throughout the judicial proceedings. This case highlights ongoing … Read more

Court Halts Hazardous Waste Shipments to Michigan Landfill Amid Community Safety Concerns

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Detroit — A Michigan judge has prohibited the transfer of hazardous waste to a suburban Detroit landfill amid ongoing concerns about its environmental safety. The ruling follows a year of legal disputes initiated by communities in the Detroit area worried about the potential risks linked to hazardous materials stored at the site. Wayne County Judge Kevin Cox determined that the environmental hazards associated with the landfill posed a “substantial and compelling” threat, outweighing any financial implications for Wayne Disposal, which is operated by Republic Services. The court’s injunction, issued on Tuesday, prevents the landfill from … Read more