Prison Discharges, 1843-1872

These are papers filed with the clerk of courts for the release of prisoners who had served their sentence in the county prison but had not paid the costs of prosecution or fine. If in the judgment of the board of prison inspectors the prisoner was unable to pay the fine or costs, the prisoner made an affirmed statement that he had no property other than wearing apparel.

The discharges typically contain the name of the petitioner, affirmation that the prisoner was unable to pay his/her fine, the charge for which they were sentenced, date of affirmation, signature of prisoner and witness, and date filed.