Utah § 17-72-507 - Escapes -- Sheriff's liability -- Defenses.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 17-72-507 — Escapes -- Sheriff's liability -- Defenses., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 17-72-507. Escapes -- Sheriff's liability -- Defenses.

Effective 11/6/2025
17-72-507.  Escapes -- Sheriff's liability -- Defenses.
(1)A sheriff who suffers the escape of an individual arrested in a civil action, without the consent or connivance of the party in whose behalf the arrest or imprisonment is made, may be liable as follows:
(a)when the arrest is upon an order to hold to bail or upon a surrender in exoneration of bail before judgment, the sheriff is liable to the plaintiff as bail;
(b)when the arrest is on an execution or commitment to enforce the payment of money, the sheriff is liable for the amount expressed in the execution or commitment; and
(c)when the arrest is on an execution or commitment other than to enforce the payment of money, the sheriff is liable for the actual damages sustained.
(2)Upon being sued for damages for an escape or rescue, the sheriff may introduce evidence in mitigation and exculpation.
(3)A person cannot maintain an action against the sheriff for a rescue or for an escape of a prisoner arrested upon an execution or commitment, if after that prisoner's rescue or escape and before the commencement of the action, the prisoner returns to the jail or is retaken by the sheriff or by any other person.


Renumbered and Amended by Chapter 13, 2025 Special Session 1

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 17-72-507

What does Utah Code § 17-72-507 cover?

Section 17-72-507 ("Escapes -- Sheriff's liability -- Defenses.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Utah § 17-72-507?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 17-72-507" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 17-72-507 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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