Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps Base in Jacksonville, North Carolina, has been the site of a water contamination scandal affecting many military members and their families. If you or someone you know has been affected by this, it is essential to understand what happened and your legal rights. In this blog, we will discuss the situation's history and your legal options if you have been affected.
Overview
Back between 1953 and 1987, the drinking water at Camp Lejeune was discovered to be contaminated. At the time, officials knew about the issue for decades and did nothing. Multiple traces of chemicals were found in the water used for consumption, cooking, and bathing. Some of the chemicals found include:
- Trichloroethylene (TCE)
- Perchloroethylene (PCE)
- Benzene
- Vinyl Chloride
Results
Sadly, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the chemical levels identified exceed maximum contamination levels. While the U.S. Marine Corps identified the water contamination in 1982, the contaminated wells in the area were not shut down until nearly three years later. Sadly, their negligence left many service members and civilians at risk of developing a variety of conditions like:
- Kidney cancer
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Liver cancer
- And many more
Any individuals who have suffered from one of the conditions above after staying at Camp Lejeune may qualify to recover disability compensation thanks to the Camp Lejeune Families Act of 2022.
The bill allows individuals who stayed on the base for over 30 days between the years 1953 and 1987 to move forward with pursuing compensation for their illnesses and conditions.
If you or a loved one believes in having been exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, we would like to hear your story. Our team at Lanier Law Group, P.A. wants to do our best to help you hold those accountable for the pain they have caused you and your family. If you’re ready to fight for justice, contact our office today.
Reach out to us at (855) 757-4204 or visit our website to get started on a consultation request form.