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We\'re digging deeper into the controversy over the Hardin Detention Center, Southeast of Billings. We have new information about the man once reported to be tops on the list to take over control. Former secret service agent Michael Cohen spent 14 months in prison for stealing money from the government. A private security firm claimed Michael Cohen was on board to be the operator of the Hardin jail. Cohen admits to speaking with the American Private Police Force, but says he was never offered a job. The founder of that company has also been in trouble with the law. Michael Hilton has an extensive history of fraud in California. When Hilton\'s criminal history came to light, Hardin officials stopped contract negotiations. But if something doesn\'t happen soon the Hardin jail could face foreclosure. Two Rivers Authority used a 27 million dollar revenue bond to fund the facility. The bonds were sold in 5,000 dollar increments. Some ended up in brokerage firms across the country. The plan was to pay bondholders by renting cells. But with no inmates, there\'s no income. The jail defaulted on its payments in May 2008. Two Rivers Authority has been paying off its debts by dipping into its reserve fund. But according to Two Rivers Vice President Al Peterson those funds have dried up. The bond says the trustee, US Bank can seize control of the jail, with the permission of 66 2/3 percent of the bondholders. It can foreclose on the jail and sell or lease it to pay back bondholders. Two Rivers\' Officials thought a private security firm was the answer to their financial problems. American Private Police Force planned to lease the jail for 10 years. But when some questioned whether the company is legitimate, and the rap-sheet of its founder, Hardin officials put contract negotiations on pause. So for now the financial future of the Hardin jail remains in limbo. Bondholders are scheduled to begin receiving payments November 1, 2011. But if they don\'t the they could sue. In the meantime, the city of Hardin is one step closer to forming it\'s own police department. Hardin officials assured residents the American Private Police Force will not be involved. Big Horn County Commissioners voted in support of the department yesterday. The police department will cost the city about 1 million dollars a year. No word yet on how the city will pay for it.
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