Shuey v. United States

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Shuey v. United States
Court U.S. Supreme Court
Citation 92 U.S. 73 (1875)
Date decided 1875
Appealed from Court of Claims

Facts: Following President Lincoln's assassination, the Secretary of War issued and published a $25,000 reward "for the apprehension of John H. Surratt, one of Booth's accomplices." Plaintiff aided in capture of Surratt. The reward had been withdrawn (several months prior to Surratt's capture) in the newspaper. The U.S. paid $10,000 for Plaintiff's assistance in capturing and identifying Surratt.

Issue: Is Defendant liable to pay the remaining $15,000 from the reward?

Holding: No, The U.S. adequately compensated Plaintiff for his assistance--he did not actually apprehend Surratt, as required by the reward offer.

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