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Board hears warning that White Pine murder filings could strain public-defense resources
Summary
A public commenter told the board that about 20 murder cases from a July prison riot—three capital and the rest Category A—have been filed in White Pine County; Director Peter Handy said the department has appointed counsel for nearly all defendants, anticipates significant costs for support services, and is checking contingency accounts to cover expenses.
During the public-comment period on Feb. 6, participant David Schieck told the board that approximately 20 murder cases arising from a July prison riot had been filed in White Pine County, including three capital prosecutions and about 16 charged at levels requiring Category A qualified counsel. "The cost of litigating those cases in White Pine County are going to be tremendous," Schieck said.
Executive Director Peter Handy responded that the department has appointed counsel for almost all the defendants so far and may still need to find two or three Category A-qualified attorneys. "As for the cost, I have already made the GFO and ASD aware that this cost is going to be coming because these are prison cases, and they will be paid out of the statutory contingency funds," Handy said. He added staff are checking whether funds can come from account 518 in the PD office for paying complex litigation counsel and said the cases will require investigators, mitigation specialists and other support services.
Board members asked procedural questions rather than taking policy positions during public comment. Member Dayvid Figler said the issue could merit a subcommittee or white paper to examine economic impacts and possible supports such as collective representation or housing for defense teams. "I would like for us to not drop this as it is a developing issue," Figler said.
The board did not take formal action at the meeting but asked staff to monitor costs and to confer about whether an interim board meeting or agenda item is needed prior to June.
