Press release, Charles B. Roberts, Attorney at Law: “Brandon Nutter, 28, was trapped in the rear access area of a compactor at his Spotsylvania County job and killed on July 7, 2022. His family is devastated not only by his death but by the horrific way he senselessly died.”
“Immediately after his death, the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health Department (VOSH) and the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office began investigating. In their Reports, both concluded that the failure of County employees to comply with federal, state, and County safety and training measures was the cause of his death. When the Sheriff’s Detective asked the County Safety Officer for a copy of the safety and training documents for employees, she was unable to supply any.”
“The Sheriff’s Report states that County employees working at the scene admitted there were no formal safety training programs in place at the facility for the compactors, including how to lock out the compactors’ power when employees were working on them, as required by federal, state and County safety laws.”
“Brandon was employed there a little over two weeks, and he had received no training on the safe operation of the compactor and how to lock out the energy supply when working on it. Nevertheless, with full knowledge of the violations of the safety laws, Brandon was ordered to perform maintenance on the compactor, which was outside of his job description.”
“In January, exactly six months after Brandon’s passing, VOSH finished its investigation and issued seven safety violations against the County with penalties totaling $296,402.00. The County exercised its right to contest the penalties, publicly stating on March 7, 2023, that it would be finished in two more months. The County has now been contesting the citations for six months. According to VOSH, it has yet to be settled, and no negotiations have been started on the citations or penalties.”
“If we must file suit, we are preparing for a protracted and expensive legal battle. It’s time for the County to give Brandon’s life and his family the respect, dignity, and closure they deserve by accepting responsibility for its employees’ actions and promptly resolving the 7 VOSH citations, the criminal case, and the wrongful death claim filed with the County Attorney. It is the right thing to do.”
Fredericksburg.com: “[A Spotsylvania County Government statement] notes that it has not received any notification regarding a recommendation of criminal charges through the OSHA investigation and that there was no criminal finding in the citations.”
“The county said officials continue to work through the OSHA investigative process and that it was prepared to complete the process in April, but OSHA and the department of labor and industry rescheduled it to August.”
“This matter is not closed,” the county response stated. “Importantly, the county actively continues to address and responsibly improve workplace safety. It remains important to the County meaningfully to learn from this tragic and terrible accident and engage in actions to prevent something similar from happening to someone else.”
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
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