United States Naval Academy Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]
United States Naval Academy Water Contamination Lawsuit Overview
The U.S. Naval Academy is designated as a National Historic Landmark. Naval graduates typically serve as midshipmen in either the marines or the navy for at least 5 years to develop their military occupational specialty (MOS) as seamen soldiers.
Unfortunately, the 338-acre base in Maryland is also the home of surrounding persistent toxic contamination. Notably, PFAS chemicals, linked to cancer and other health issues for service members and local residents, have plagued areas around the U.S. Naval Academy complex in Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay estuary, the largest estuary in the United States of America.
Multiple lawsuits have been filed related to water contamination from the U.S. Naval Academy and other military sites in the Maryland area. These include suits against the U.S. government to compel medical monitoring and blood testing for exposed residents, as well as suits targeting manufacturers of PFAS-containing firefighting foams linked to drinking water pollution.
United States Naval Academy Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates
JUNE 2024 – KING LAW ACCEPTING UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY WATER CONTAMINATION LAWSUITS
King Law has been representing claimants in environmental exposure lawsuits for years. And now, we are reviewing cases associated specifically with water contamination at the United States Naval Academy. If you or a loved one have been exposed to contaminated drinking water from the base and have developed a related illness, contact us today to determine if you’re eligible for compensation.
OCTOBER 2023 – Report of severe PFAS contamination in groundwater, surface water, and sediments at the Bay Head Road Annex site, in Annapolis, MD.
NOVEMBER 2020 – The Navy released a Phase I Remedial Investigation Report detailing PFAS levels in surface water draining into the Little Magothy River leading to contaminated drinking water and seafood.
2018 – The Department of Defense reported groundwater at Bay Head Park contained over 70,000 ppt of PFOA/PFOS, many times higher than EPA health advisory levels.
2017 – The Navy informed Anne Arundel County about serious PFAS groundwater contamination at Bay Head Park.
2015 – The EPA issued a Record of Decision selecting a final remedy for the Perry Center area of the Naval Academy, including soil cover and groundwater use restrictions due to contamination concerns.
1985-2002 – Early investigations by the Navy identified potential contamination sources and found soil/sediment contamination with hazardous substances.
On this page:
History of Toxic Exposure at the US Naval Academy
US Naval Academy Air Force Base Water Contamination Map
Contaminants Found in the US Naval Academy Drinking Water
Current Water Quality at the US Naval Academy
Health Risks Linked to Drinking Water at the US Naval Academy
Eligibility Criteria for the US Naval Academy Water Contamination Lawsuit
US Naval Academy Water Contamination Settlement Amounts
How to File a US Naval Academy Water Contamination Lawsuit
Statute of Limitations for the US Naval Academy Water Contamination Claims
History of Toxic Exposure at the United States Naval Academy
The U.S. Naval Academy grounds have a history of waste disposal and industrial activities that led to toxic smoke fumes from burning materials, particularly at the Perry Center area in the northwest portion of the campus.
Key historical operations included a former dry cleaning plant, gasoline station, vehicle repair facilities, and waste incineration dating back to the early 1900s. Toxic contamination in the surface and groundwater sediment has been discovered as far back as the 80s, with The Navy only recently attempting to mitigate the long term consequences for students stationed at the base.
United States Naval Academy Water Contamination Map
The above map showcases the extent of water contamination at the United States Naval Academy and the surrounding areas in Maryland. The solid color shapes show the extent of contaminated drinking water (elevated levels in TCE, CT, and PCE) in various aquifers surrounding the area at their historical peak. The solid color lines with no fill show the current extent of contaminated drinking water. These areas have decreased in size from their max contamination due to cleanup efforts. However, these aquifer plumes continue to have elevated concentrations of toxic chemicals. As shown above, during prior times, water contamination expanded beyond United States Naval Academy boundaries, contaminating the community’s drinking supply.
Contaminants Found in US Naval Academy Drinking Water
PFAS contamination poses a significant environmental and health concern in the surrounding areas of Annapolis and Chesapeake at the United States Naval Academy Naval Base. These persistent, bioaccumulative chemicals have been linked to various cancers, thyroid disease, and other serious conditions. Widespread use of PFAS-containing firefighting foams during training exercises at United States Naval Academy and emergency responses led to extensive groundwater pollution.
While remediation efforts have improved the situation, testing continues to detect residual PFAS compounds, necessitating ongoing monitoring and treatment. Groundwater testing at the United States Naval Academy has revealed the presence of other contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals, compounding the environmental impact. Past disposal practices and industrial operations also released hazardous substances such as trichloroethene (TCE), benzene, 1,2-dichloroethane (DCA), 1,1-dichloroethene (DCE), and chlorobenzene into the soil and groundwater.
- Trichloroethene (TCE): A chlorinated solvent used for degreasing and dry cleaning.
- Benzene: An aromatic hydrocarbon found in gasoline and used as a precursor in chemical manufacturing.
- 1,2-Dichloroethane (DCA): A chlorinated hydrocarbon used as a solvent and in the production of vinyl chloride.
- 1,1-Dichloroethene (DCE): A chlorinated olefin used as a solvent and in the production of other chemicals.
- Chlorobenzene: An aromatic compound used as a solvent and in the production of other chemicals.
Many of these organic compounds are known or suspected carcinogens and can cause liver, kidney, and neurological damage with prolonged exposure.
Current Water Quality at the US Naval Academy
Lawsuits have been filed against the U.S. government and manufacturers of firefighting foams due to PFAS contamination of drinking water supplies in the surrounding communities. The EPA source states that certain areas like the Perry Center were deemed “Corrective Action Complete without Controls,” suggesting remediation efforts have addressed some contamination concerns. However, the extent of any remaining contamination issues was not specified which raises ongoing concerns about what the Navy is actually doing to help protect current students and address the harm to past graduates of the academy.
Water Treatment Efforts at United States Naval Academy
Limited information was given on water treatment efforts specific to the Naval Academy. The EPA source mentioned implementing a soil cover system and groundwater use/land use restrictions as part of the final remedy decision for the Perry Center area in 2015.
Health Risks Linked to Drinking Water at the US Naval Academy
There are well-documented health risks associated with PFAS (forever chemical) exposure, including various cancers, thyroid disease, developmental issues in children, and other serious conditions.
PFAS found in local seafood was also noted as a potential exposure source.
Our law firm is currently evaluating cases where individuals have been diagnosed with:
- Kidney Cancer
- Liver cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
- Prostate Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Thyroid Disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
Over years tainted water at the former United States Naval Academy Naval Base has been associated with various health concerns, including kidney and testicular cancers, thyroid disorders, and developmental issues in children. Medical studies emphasize the importance of regular health screenings and check-ups for those impacted by the contamination to detect and address any potential health effects from PFAS exposure promptly.
Eligibility Criteria for US Naval Academy Water Contamination Lawsuit
If diagnosed with an illness potentially linked to contaminated water exposure at the U.S. Naval Academy, you may be eligible to pursue legal action and compensation. Kings Lawyers specializes in evaluating such cases and determining claim viability based on key factors:
- Exposure Duration: Cases typically involve at least 6 months of documented exposure to harmful contaminants like PFAS, which can accumulate in the body over time.
- Medical Diagnosis: We are investigating cases of various cancers, blood disorders, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis potentially connected to contaminant exposure.
Nationwide, thousands of drinking water contamination claims are being filed, with anticipated multi-million dollar settlements against PFAS product manufacturers.
Our law firm is currently evaluating cases where individuals have been diagnosed with:
- Kidney Cancer
- Liver cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
- Prostate Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Thyroid Disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
To initiate a lawsuit, consult Kings attorneys, and provide medical records, military service records, and discharge paperwork. More comprehensive evidence will strengthen your case, and our team will guide you through the entire process, setting realistic expectations while protecting your rights at every step.
US Naval Academy Water Contamination Settlement Amounts
While historical settlements for toxic exposure offer a general precedent, every case stands on its own merits. For those affected by contamination at the United States Naval Academy, compensation could span from $30,000 to $500,000, reflecting prior outcomes. However, in instances of extensive exposure and severe health issues, the settlement amounts may be even higher.
The compensation for claims related to water contamination at the United States Naval Academy Base can fluctuate greatly. Key factors influencing these amounts include the extent and duration of exposure, the severity of the health impacts, and the length of time the individual spent at the base.
In the end, legal experts will thoroughly examine the unique details of each plaintiff’s situation to determine the appropriate compensation.
How to File a US Naval Academy Water Contamination Lawsuit
Pursuing a contamination lawsuit involves gathering evidence, consulting specialized attorneys, and formally submitting a claim. Essential documents include medical records, military service records, and proof of residence near the affected area.
Seeking experienced legal guidance is crucial to navigate the complexities of this process successfully. With help from our lawyers in your corner, filing a water contamination lawsuit related to the United States Naval Academy can be streamlined into three key steps:
- An initial case evaluation and documentation gathering phase where we assess eligibility, answer questions, and guide you in compiling exposure evidence, medical records, and related costs.
- Thorough preparation and submission of your formal contamination complaint detailing the case specifics and identifying responsible parties.
- Skilled settlement negotiations or advice on proceeding to trial if needed, with our focus on securing fair compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages stemming from the wrongful exposure.
Statute of Limitations for US Naval Academy Water Contamination Claims
The deadline for filing contamination claims related to the United States Naval Academy can vary depending on state laws and specific case details. Consulting an experienced attorney is crucial to understand the applicable time limits and ensure you file your claim promptly to remain eligible for potential compensation.
Each state has its own statute of limitations that determines how long after an incident or exposure you have to initiate legal action. Failing to meet the deadline could jeopardize your ability to recover damages, so seeking timely legal counsel is imperative to protect your rights.
US Naval Academy Water Contamination Lawyers
At King Law, our legal team is deeply experienced in handling environmental cases and military service issues, especially those involving PFAS contamination. Over the years, we’ve developed a keen understanding of the complexities involved in evaluating and building strong claims in this specialized field.
We pride ourselves on our meticulous preparation of all necessary documentation and our commitment to providing comprehensive legal representation throughout the entire process. Our deep expertise makes us an invaluable ally for those seeking justice and fair compensation for the harm caused by PFAS exposure.