Suspect wants county to pay for $60,000 operation

From: Chicago Sun-Times, United States - Jan 17, 2006

ANDERSON, Ind. -- A man charged with murder in the fatal stabbing of a fellow inmate at a state prison 12 years ago wants Madison County to pay for a $60,000 operation that may restore his hearing so he can understand the proceedings.

Robert Barnett, 53, of Indianapolis, is charged with stabbing burglar Ricky Combs, 28, in 1993 at the Pendleton Correctional Facility. Combs died from multiple stab wounds.

Defense attorney Bryan Williams said Barnett needs a cochlear implant. "He can't read lips and doesn't know sign language," Williams said. "The only way he can communicate is by reading notes."

AP

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