Statement on the Disposition of the Brayton Point Protest Case

District Attorney Sam Sutter’s statement to the media outside of the Fall River Justice Center on the disposition of the Brayton Point Protest case – Commonwealth v. Kenneth Ward, Commonwealth v. Jonathan O’Hara

“The decision that Assistant District Attorney Robert Kidd and I reached today was a decision that certainly took into consideration the cost to the taxpayers in Somerset, but was also made with our concerns for their children, and the children of Bristol County and beyond in mind.

“Climate change is one of the gravest crises our planet has ever faced. In my humble opinion, the political leadership on this issue has been sorely lacking. I am heartened that we were able to forge an agreement that both parties were pleased with and that appeared to satisfy the police and those here in sympathy with the individuals who were charged.

“I am also extremely pleased that we were able to reach an agreement that symbolizes our commitment at the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office to take a leadership role on this issue.”