#USA #New York #Kroll Settlement #Suffolk County #Butler v. Suffolk

Financial Compensation for Former Inmates of Suffolk County

Recent developments have opened the door for individuals who have been incarcerated in facilities operated by the Suffolk County Sheriff's Department between April 5, 2009, and May 27, 2025, to potentially receive funds from a proposed settlement agreement. This proposal is tied to a class action lawsuit called Butler v. Suffolk County, which addresses alleged unconstitutional conditions within the correctional facilities located in Riverhead and Yaphank.

Who is Eligible?

If you have been detained under the custody of the Suffolk County Sheriff's Department at the Suffolk County Correctional Facility (SCCF) during the specified dates and have been released, you may automatically qualify as a class member unless you were housed exclusively in facilities opened in Yaphank in 2013. There is no need for any proactive action on your part to be included, provided the court approves the agreement.

Understanding the Lawsuit

The roots of this litigation lie in concerns voiced by claims of inadequate treatment and poor living conditions experienced by inmates at SCCF. Plaintiffs have sought redress for these purported violations, culminating in the current settlement proposal that seeks to compensate affected individuals while instituting procedural reforms within the correctional system.

Terms of the Settlement

Under the agreement, a total of $18 million has been allocated by the county to form a settlement fund, primarily designated for class members. Additional oversight is in place to ensure that changes in policies and practices are implemented to improve current standards at the facilities, which will be monitored by an independent expert and the courts.

Out of this settlement fund, the lawyers representing the class will request $175,000 for administrative expenses along with potential awards for plaintiffs who played key roles in the proceedings. Furthermore, legal fees may reach up to $400,000 contingent on additional court stipulations.

Claiming Funds

To access compensation, class members must complete and submit a Claim Form either through traditional mail or by visiting www.SuffolkJailsLawsuit.com by the deadline of December 3, 2025. Those who do not submit a claim may forfeit their eligibility for any remuneration from the settlement. Alternatively, individuals who wish not to participate in the settlement must send a request for exclusion by September 9, 2025, ensuring they do not remain bound by any potential claims release resulting from the settlement.

Court Proceedings

A Fairness Hearing is scheduled for November 3, 2025, at 11 AM ET, where the court will evaluate the fairness of the proposed agreement. If interested, members of the class can also attend the hearing and may choose to have their counsel intervene, but it is not obligatory. Objections and inquiries regarding the settlement can be presented at this hearing.

Additional Information

For further guidance and clarification, details are accessible through www.SuffolkJailsLawsuit.com, offering an FAQ section that addresses common queries about the agreement, instructions for filing claims, and the legal rights of class members. If you require a Claim Form and are unable to download it online, requests may also be made via postal mail addressed to Claims Administrator – 83221 c/o Kroll Settlement Administration LLC, PO Box 225391, New York, NY 10150-5391. Should you have questions, a free hotline is available at (833) 420-3826.

This notice comes as a result of federal court authorization and is not an invitation to seek legal representation. Please refrain from contacting the court regarding this notice.

In summary, this proposed settlement represents a significant step towards not only compensation for affected individuals but also essential reforms within the Suffolk County correctional system. For all those involved, the time to act is now, ensuring that rights are acknowledged and addressed.