We were asked by a property owner to pay for the busted door of a residence that the local sheriff's office crashed pursuant to a search warrant exucution. The warrant was valid and was executed properly. Does anyone know if there are any laws requiring the county to pay for such damages or should the property owner seek restitution by other means? Any help would be appreciated.

I have no idea if the property owner can collect from the county (thru lawsuit) or not. But, for the most part, when we are dealing with an "innocent" property owner, we have made restitution for the door part of a plea.

Todd

The Sheriff's Department chased a bank robber through a local golf course here in Williamson County cause extensive damage to the turf. The County refused to pay the damages. Told the golf course that the bank robber is responsible.

Last session, the Legislature considered a bill that would have required payment for damages resulting from execution of a warrant. However, it didn't pass. Watch out for a repeat this comming session.

Check out Sec. 101.053 of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code (part of the Tort Claims Act).

It would seem to apply to officers executing a search warrant. Hope this helps.