Wed, May 26, 2010
Experts across the board are trying to weigh the costs of what may become the worst oil spill in U.S. history -- the BP disaster in the Gulf of Mexico.
One attorney says BP should pay more than just a financial price after several other accidents in recent years. Brent Coon, who represents hundreds of people suing BP says it's time someone went to prison.
"BP has been given enough chances, and at some point if you're a habitual criminal, you just have to do some time."
Some scientists estimate the busted BP well has spewed a least 4 million barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico -- and the leak's still gushing.
It's a very costly disaster - in financial and ecological terms. BP says the costs have topped $760 million, but it's too early to calculate the total bill.
Industry executives expect more state and federal regulations, which will drive up costs for drilling in the gulf, and may squeeze out smaller operators. Dave Roberts is Head of Exploration and Production for Marathon Oil.
