Federal government files lawsuit against real estate developer for mishandling protected land: '3,000 artifacts lost or destroyed'

A Georgia-based real estate company is under federal scrutiny following allegations of mishandling thousands of cultural artifacts. Savannah Land Holdings is being sued by the federal government for allegedly violating conditions tied to wetland construction permits at the Waterways site in Richmond Hill.

The company had received a 404 permit from the Army Corps of Engineers, which mandates that developers safeguard historical and cultural resources. The Environmental Protection Agency notes that such permits require developers to report any discovered artifacts or human remains to the relevant state or tribal authorities before proceeding with construction.

The lawsuit claims that beginning in September 2023, Savannah Land Holdings engaged in "significant violations" of the permit, including the improper handling, loss, or destruction of artifacts and human remains. Officials state that around 80,000 artifacts were mishandled, with approximately 3,000 items either lost or discarded.

In response, federal authorities are seeking to halt ongoing development and impose civil fines. While criminal charges for 404 permit breaches are rare, past casessuch as Lucas v. United States in 2005have resulted in multi-million dollar penalties and lengthy prison sentences.

The case highlights the ongoing need for strict enforcement of environmental and cultural preservation laws and serves as a reminder of the local and federal roles in protecting sensitive historical sites.

Author: Olivia Parker