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Ottawa County Votes on Jail Judgment Tax | Joplin News
Ottawa County voters face a pivotal decision today: approve a one-cent sales tax hike to pay off a $40 million civil judgment stemming from the tragic death of 26-year-old Terral Ellis in county jail custody in 2015. His family won a landmark case citing Eighth Amendment violations after disturbing videos showed staff mocking him as he begged for help — a verdict upheld on appeal. Officials, including District Attorney Doug Pewitt, argue this tax is the least damaging option, avoiding bankruptcy or crippling property tax hikes that could devastate local businesses. The tax, set to expire in…
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