Whitcombe v. County of Yolo

Opinion

REYNOSO, J.

In this case we deal with the extent of the freedom from liability the California Tort Claims Act accords public entities and public officials with regard to the administration of prisoner probation programs. We also confront two ancillary issues: (1) whether the existence of a “special relationship” serves to bypass a legislative grant of immunity; and (2) whether the breach of certain mandatory administrative duties gives rise to governmental liability.

Appellants Harry J. Whitcombe and Carlos Hernandez (hereinafter appellants) appeal from a judgment of dismissal after the…