Smith v. State

OPINION

Burke, J.

On December 17, 1982, Claimant, William Smith, was an inmate at Pontiac Correctional Center. He was quartered in the West House, 3 Gallery, Cell #331. In that section, the inmates stay in their cells all day except for meals.

At approximately 4:00 p.m., the cell doors on 3 Gallery were opened, allowing the inmates to go to their evening meal. As Claimant exited his cell, he was attacked, stabbed and beaten by three men wearing ski masks. The identity of these masked inmates was never determined.

Claimant received five stab wounds, which left five scars. The medical bills and…