A federal judge ruled in favor of Missouri in a $24 billion lawsuit against China for hoarding protective supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced intentions to seize Chinese-owned assets to recover the judgment. The ruling, which is the largest in Missouri’s history, follows a legal battle to hold China accountable for its actions during the pandemic.

On Friday, a federal judge ruled in favor of Missouri in its $24 billion lawsuit against the Communist Party of China. The lawsuit alleged that China hoarded protective supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey stated, “This is a landmark victory for Missouri and the United States in the fight to hold China accountable for unleashing COVID-19 on the world.”

Bailey emphasized that despite China’s absence in court, accountability remains, and the state plans to seize Chinese-owned assets, including farmland, to collect the judgment. This ruling marks the largest judgment ever awarded in Missouri’s history, significantly surpassing the previous record.

Judge Stephen Limbaugh confirmed the ruling, noting that Missouri presented sufficient evidence to establish liability against multiple defendants, including various Chinese government entities and the Wuhan Institute of Virology. The total judgment amounted to $24,488,825,457.00, plus interest.

Attorney General Bailey reiterated the state’s position on social media, asserting, “Hey China, You owe Missouri $24 BILLION. I just won a judgment in court. Pay up — or we start seizing assets and farmland.” This decision follows an appeal that reinstated the lawsuit after a lower court had dismissed it, with the appeals court limiting the suit to claims of supply hoarding, excluding previous allegations about information concealment.

In conclusion, Missouri’s recent legal victory highlights significant accountability efforts against China regarding COVID-19. The $24 billion judgment signifies a historic milestone and reflects Missouri’s commitment to pursue justice for the pandemic’s impacts. Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s determination to collect the judgment underscores the state’s resolve in this matter.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com

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