(A) Whenever a claim is made or a civil action is commenced against an officer or employee of the township for injuries to persons or property allegedly caused by the officer or employee while acting within the scope of his or her authority, the township shall pay for, engage or furnish the services of an attorney to advise the officer or employee as to the claim and to appear for and represent the officer or employee in the action. The Township Board may compromise, settle and pay the claim before or after the commencement of a civil action. Whenever a judgment for damages is awarded against an officer or employee of the township as a result of a civil action for personal injuries or property damage caused by the officer or employee while in the course of employment and while acting within the scope of his or her authority, the township shall indemnify the officer or employee or pay, settle or compromise the judgment.
(B) When a criminal action is commenced against an officer or employee of the township based upon the conduct of the officer or employee in the course of employment, if the employee or officer had a reasonable basis for believing that he or she was acting within the scope of his or her authority at the time of the alleged conduct, the township shall pay for, engage or furnish the services of an attorney to advise the officer or employee as to the action, and to appear for and represent the officer or employee in the action.
(C) This section shall not impose any liability upon the township other than that herein set forth.
(Res. 46, passed 12-9-1985)