Suffolk County $18M Jail Conditions Class Action Settlement
Were you detained at the Riverhead or Yaphank jail (pre-2013 facility) between April 5 2009 and May 27 2025? You may receive a cash payment—plus possible injury bonuses—thanks to an $18 million settlement. Submit your claim online or by mail before December 3 2025.
Download Claim Form (PDF)Who Is Eligible?
- Detained, confined or imprisoned in the Suffolk County Riverhead jail or Yaphank jail (not the new Yaphank facility opened in 2013).
- Held at any point from April 5 2009 – May 27 2025 and released within the same dates.
- Incarcerated for any reason — arrest, civil or criminal contempt, detainer, or conviction.
Settlement Benefits
Per-Diem Cash Award
$12 million of the fund is split among all valid claims. Your share = number of days in jail × per-diem rate (rate set after all claims are tallied).
Special Injury Awards
- Tier 1 (up to $30,000): Death, dismemberment or ongoing significant medical treatment linked to jail conditions.
- Tier 2 (up to $15,000): Hospitalization or temporary significant medical treatment tied to jail conditions.
How to File Your Claim
- Gather required information:
- Class member ID (from postcard notice) – required for online filing.
- Social Security number or ITIN.
- Dates and facility where you were held.
- Medical documentation for injury tiers (if applicable).
- Choose one filing method:
- Submit the online claim form
- Download, print and mail the PDF claim form to:
Claims Administrator – 83221
c/o Kroll Settlement Administration LLC
PO Box 225391
New York, NY 10150-5391
Claim deadline: December 3 2025
Timeline & Key Dates
- Opt-out deadline: September 9 2025
- Fairness hearing: November 3 2025
- Claim deadline: December 3 2025
- Expected payments: ~90 days after final approval and any appeals
Why the Case Settled
Plaintiffs alleged that Suffolk County exposed detainees to human waste, mold, vermin, rust, extreme temperatures and inadequate water, violating constitutional rights. By settling, the County provides immediate monetary relief and agrees to facility improvements, while avoiding further litigation costs and delays.
FAQ: Suffolk County Jail Conditions Settlement
How much money will I get?
Your per-diem payment depends on how many days you spent in jail during the class period and how many valid claims are filed. Injury tiers can add up to $30,000.
Do I need proof of my incarceration?
You must list facility and date information. Medical records are required only if you seek a Tier 1 or Tier 2 injury award.
Can I file if I no longer have my postcard notice?
Yes. You can file by mail without the class member ID. If you need help locating your ID for an online claim, contact the settlement administrator at 833-420-3826.
What happens to unclaimed funds?
Any leftover money will be redistributed among claimants if practical; otherwise, it will be donated to a nonprofit organization.
Is this legal advice?
No. This article is for informational purposes only. Consult an attorney for legal advice about your specific situation.