The Man Convicted of Causing a Catastrophe | Topeka News

After 33 years behind bars for the only “causing a catastrophe” conviction in Missouri, James R. Scott faces a pivotal parole hearing. Convicted in 1993 for deliberately breaching a levee near West Quincy, Missouri — triggering floods across 14,000 acres — Scott claims innocence, despite admitting to other crimes. His advocate, author Adam Pitluk, argues Scott has transformed and deserves release, citing weak evidence in the original case. But former mayor Chuck Scholz and the community still bear the scars of the disaster, questioning Scott’s motives and the legitimacy of the charge. With a decision looming in two to three weeks, the parole board must weigh Scott’s redemption against the lasting pain of the flood’s victims. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/eb43c1ab91271a96