AG launches probe as Apalachicola residents forced to bathe in river water

APALACHICOLA, Fla. (CBS12) — A formal investigation has been launched by Attorney General James Uthmeier into the city of Apalachicola, following allegations that residents have been forced to bathe in rivers due to contaminated water.

“We will use every tool available to bring about the necessary civil or criminal remedies to protect Floridians,” Uthmeier said.

Uthmeier announced on Thursday afternoon on X that residents have reported that the water in the city is dirty, emits a foul odor, and is unsafe for use without boiling.

According to the post, this has led to dire circumstances, forcing residents to bathe in rivers and leaving local restaurants unable to serve water to customers. Many homes are filled with a persistent, unpleasant smell, significantly impacting the quality of life.

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Uthmeier said that the investigation aims to hold city officials accountable for their inaction and ensure that the needs of the residents are met.

“There’s a real failure of leadership at the city level,” Uthmeier stated. “Despite receiving millions of dollars to repair their compromised water filtration system, there has been little to no progress in addressing the issue.”

Uthmeier’s office will be collaborating with several state agencies, including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Department of Health, and the Department of Environmental Protection, to assess whether any state or federal laws have been violated.

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