A Harris County grand jury on Friday indicted the French chemical company Arkema and two executives for the "reckless" release of toxic chemicals during Hurricane Harvey last August, a move that alarmed industry leaders and surprised environmental advocates.

The company, CEO Richard Rowe and plant manager Leslie Comardelle put residents and first responders at risk when the Crosby plant caught fire as Harvey dumped record rainfall on the Houston area, according to the Harris County District Attorney's office……

….Prosecutors say the disaster could have been prevented. The grand jury charged Arkema, Rowe and Comardelle with reckless emission of an air contaminant under the Texas Water Code. The charge carries a penalty of up to five years in prison for the individuals, and a fine of up to $1 million for the corporation. Rowe and Comardelle are expected in court Monday.