53-9-127. Award of compensation. (1) The office shall award compensation benefits under this part if satisfied by a preponderance of the evidence that the requirements for compensation have been met.

(2) An award may be made whether or not any person is prosecuted or convicted. Proof of conviction of a person whose acts give rise to a claim is conclusive evidence that the crime was committed unless an application for rehearing, an appeal of the conviction, or certiorari is pending or a rehearing or new trial has been ordered.

(3) The office may suspend the proceedings pending disposition of a criminal prosecution that has been commenced or is imminent and may make a tentative award under 53-9-126.