In August of 2022, the estate of Tiffany Helbling filed a lawsuit against the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, Quality Correctional Care, several jailers, deputies, nurses, and other jail employees. The case was filed in Marshall Circuit Court.  The estate claims neglect and or the wrongful death of Tiffany Helbling. The case is being brought by Jennifer Lowder on behalf of the estate of Tiffany Helbling and her two children. 

There are three counts against the jail including Count I Violation of the 4th, 8th, and 14th Amendments; Count II Policy Procedure and Practice and Count III State Law Claims of Negligence/Wrongful Death against all Defendants.    

On May 18, 2021, Tiffany Helbling was arrested during a traffic stop for allegedly being under the influence of Xanax.  She was arrested and lodged in the Marshall County Jail and the estate claims she didn’t receive proper medical evaluation and or treatment. 

On May 22, 2021, Helbling was found unresponsive in her cell.  Jailers began emergency protocols to resuscitate her, but Tiffany was pronounced deceased at the hospital.  An autopsy determined that Helbling suffered from bilateral pneumonia. 

The plaintiffs are seeking all available compensatory and punitive damages, remedies, and just relief, including recovery of attorney fees and costs.  They are seeking a jury trial for this case.

On Monday Marshall County Attorney Jim Clevenger Bliss McKnight is defending the county in this lawsuit and defense costs have already exceeded $35,000. 

The plaintiff made a demand on September 20, 2023, for $5 million. Since the defense cost are already over $35,000 and the county’s insurance coverage is up to $5 million, the county was put on notice that the county may be liable for an amount that exceeds the $5 million.  Attorney Clevenger said, “under the policy, the county could hire separate counsel to protect the county’s interest.  At this time, I would not suggest doing so.  I have been monitoring the discovery.  I am aware that the county has put QCC on notice that if anyone is liable, that liability falls on QCC