T
he U.S. government is suing Savannah Land Holdings, a Georgia real estate developer, for allegedly destroying thousands of Native American artifacts and human remains at the Waterways neighborhood in Richmond Hill, Ga. The company is accused of violating a 404 permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which requires protection of cultural resources on the property.

    According to the federal government's complaint, Savannah Land Holdings became aware of "extensive violations" of the permit in September 2023, including improper handling and destruction of artifacts and human remains. The lawsuit states that there are 18 archaeological sites throughout the property, and the company failed to consult with required authorities when objects were discovered.

    The company was supposed to cease excavation and notify relevant parties if human remains were found, but allegedly did not do so. Additionally, the lawsuit claims that Savannah Land Holdings misplaced remains, improperly handled artifacts, resulting in 80,000 uncurated items and 3,000 lost or disposed of artifacts.

    The federal government is seeking an injunction to stop development at the property, a security plan to prevent looting, and a civil penalty as restitution for the violations.