OPINION ISSUED JANUARY 17, 1992
HARRISON COUNTY COMMISSION
VS.
DIVISION OF CORRECTIONS
(CC-91-64)
Edward Matko, Prosecuting Attorney of Harrison County, for claimant.
John E. Shank, Deputy Attorney General, for claimant.
PER CURIAM:
This claim was submitted for determination upon the Answer filed by the respondent, and
correspondence received from the claimant, wherein the claimant agreed with the amount stated in
the Answer as settlement of the claim.
Claimant, County Commission of Harrison County, provides and maintains a facility for the
incarceration of prisoners who have committed crimes in Harrison County. Some of the prisoners
held in the facility for the incarceration of prisoners who have committed crimes in Harrison County.
Some of the prisoners held in the facility are guilty of crimes which require the sentencing of
prisoners to facilities provided and maintained by the respondent, Division of Corrections. Claimant
brought this action to recover the costs of housing for prisoners who have been sentenced to a State
penal institution, but due to circumstances beyond the control of the county, these prisoners have had
to remain in the county prison facility for periods of time beyond the date of the commitment order.
The Court previously determined in the County Comm'n. of Mineral County v. Div. of Corrections,
an unpublished opinion of the Court of Claims issued November 21, 1990, that the respondent State
agency is liable to the claimant for the cost of housing these inmates.
Pursuant to the holding in the Mineral County Opinion, the respondent reviewed this claim to
determine the number of inmate days for which respondent may be liable. Respondent then filed an
Answer admitting the validity of the claim and that the amount of $24,930.00 is a fair and reasonable
settlement of the claim.
In view of the foregoing, the Court makes an award to claimant in the amount of $24,930.00.
Award of $24,930.00.
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