South West Water admits criminal offence over Devon parasite outbreak
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<p>Firm pleads guilty to supplying water unfit for human consumption in relation to 2024 cryptosporidiosis cases</p><p>A major utility company has admitted supplying water unfit for human consumption after a parasite outbreak left more than 100 people in and around a seaside town sick.</p><p>South West Water (SWW) pleaded guilty to the criminal offence relating to the cryptosporidiosis outbreak in Brixham, Devon, which affected 2,500 homes.</p> <a href="htt
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South West Water admits criminal offence over Devon parasite outbreak Firm pleads guilty to supplying water unfit for human consumption in relation to 2024 cryptosporidiosis cases A major utility company has admitted supplying water unfit for human consumption after a parasite outbreak left more than 100 people in and around a seaside town sick. South West Water pleaded guilty to the criminal offence relating to the cryptosporidiosis outbreak in Brixham, Devon , which affected 2,500 homes. Almost 150 cases of illness were confirmed in spring 2024, with some people needing hospital treatment, and many residents claim the impacts of the outbreak are still being felt. During an hour-long hearing at Exeter magistrates court, the company pleaded guilty to an offence under the Water Industry Act 1991. It will be sentenced in June and faces a fine of hundreds of thousands of pounds. Joe Millington, representing the Drinking Water Inspectorate, which brought the prosecution, said it was an “extremely high profile” incident. He said: “This affected a significant number of people across a broad geographical area and resulted in an adverse impact on the public confidence in the water supply. Its effects were long felt. There was local inconvenience, economic impact and impact on education.” The outbreak was traced to a water tank at a reservoir, though the court was told there remained an issue over exactly how it happened. Speaking after the guilty plea, residents claimed some people were still suffering health issues almost two years on. Jen Watts, said her 10-year-old son developed avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder after becoming ill in the outbreak. He spent four days in hospital and Watts said he was still struggling with his health. She said: “I’m relieved that they have pleaded guilty. I hope that the sentencing is strong and severe and sends a very clear message to all water companies that it’s not acceptable or tolerated and they take into account the devastat...
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