For all debts and demands whatsoever due any of the correctional centers subject to the control of the department and all damages for failure of contract, and for trespass and other wrongs to the correctional center or any property thereof, real or personal, actions in any court of competent jurisdiction may be maintained in the name of the director. Interest shall be charged and every effort made to recover on any and all sums due the correctional center on account of any inmate thereof; the account therefor, certified by the head of the correctional center, with the seal of the department attached, shall be prima facie evidence of the amount due.
§ 217.050, RSMo