Indiana seeks new judge after no damages awarded in IBM case

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Attorneys for the state of Indiana are challenging a judge’s decision to award it no damages in its battle with IBM Corp. over the company’s failed attempt to privatize state welfare services.

A Marion County judge ruled that Indiana largely failed “to prove damages by a reasonable certainty.”

Indiana’s attorneys responded by seeking a new judge to oversee the case.

The judge’s Friday order follows an Indiana Supreme Court decision in March that found IBM breached its $1.3 billion state contract to automate much of Indiana’s state welfare system. The order also directs the trial court to determine what damages IBM owes Indiana.

Attorney Peter Rusthoven says the state believes the judge exceeded his jurisdiction.

IBM spokesman Clint Roswell says Indiana is seeking to “prolong this case” at taxpayers’ expense.