Commission Considers Damages Against DHS for Man's Murder
By: Marci Manley, KARK 4 News
Updated: December 13, 2012
The Arkansas Claims Commission determined last month that the Department of Human Services (DHS) was liable in the death of 67-year-old Maurice Clark in 2009.
The State Claims Commission hears complaints against government agencies, because the state can't legally be sued.
Today commissioners heard from the family of a victim asking for millions in funds for his wrongful death.
That's because Antonio Terry, 17 at the time, pleaded guilty to shooting and killing Clark during a home invasion robbery in 2009.
Terry had been in juvenile detention in Alexander for burglary and theft, but was released by the DHS Youth Division Services after three months against the staff's recommendation.
"The money isn't going to bring their dad back. But the money might make DYS more responsible and accountable," said Clark family attorney David Williams.
The lawyer representing DHS, saying any amount awarded by the Claims Commission will negatively impact the youth division services budget, resulting in a reduction of services.
The commission did not decide on damages Thursday, saying it would determine an amount for the family in the immediate future.
The State Claims Commission hears complaints against government agencies, because the state can't legally be sued.
Today commissioners heard from the family of a victim asking for millions in funds for his wrongful death.
That's because Antonio Terry, 17 at the time, pleaded guilty to shooting and killing Clark during a home invasion robbery in 2009.
Terry had been in juvenile detention in Alexander for burglary and theft, but was released by the DHS Youth Division Services after three months against the staff's recommendation.
"The money isn't going to bring their dad back. But the money might make DYS more responsible and accountable," said Clark family attorney David Williams.
The lawyer representing DHS, saying any amount awarded by the Claims Commission will negatively impact the youth division services budget, resulting in a reduction of services.
The commission did not decide on damages Thursday, saying it would determine an amount for the family in the immediate future.
