Leon County v. Harmon

Respondent John Robert Harmon has been charged with first degree murder and aggravated child abuse. Although represented by private counsel, he filed a motion in circuit court to be declared partially indigent for purposes of costs, including depositions. The motion was opposed by Leon County, which would be responsible for the costs if the motion were granted. At an evidentiary hearing, Harmon testified that he was essentially without funds or income and that the private counsel representing him was retained and being paid by relatives. This testimony was unrefuted, although the county did…