Mayor Brandon M. Scott of Baltimore expressed profound disappointment in a recent court ruling regarding the city's lawsuit against opioid distributors McKesson and AmerisourceBergen. According to a statement released by the City of Baltimore Mayor's office, while the court recognized the liability of the two companies in contributing to the city's opioid crisis, it stopped short of upholding the jury's other findings from a trial last year.
"This decision is disappointing to say the least," Mayor Scott was quoted as saying in the statement. He also emphasized that the city is currently evaluating the court's decision and weighing all available options. Scott highlighted Baltimore's unique position as the sole municipality to secure verdicts against McKesson and AmerisourceBergen and vowed to continue fighting for the city persistently. The mayor was undeterred by the court's decision, pointing out that the settlements obtained through this legal process were significantly more advantageous than what could have been gained through a global settlement.
Mayor Scott emphasized the importance of the litigation as a voice for families devastated by the opioid crisis: "We stood tall to say Baltimore deserved more, that the families destroyed by these companies deserved better." His office's statement indicates a continuing commitment to tackle the opioid epidemic with available resources, no matter the setbacks in court. The recognition of McKesson and AmerisourceBergen's liability, despite the recent ruling, was highlighted as a step forward for Baltimore's long-running battle with opioid addiction.
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