In a significant resolution to a longstanding legal issue, Suffolk County, New York, has agreed to a settlement of $18 million, concluding a 14-year court battle initiated by former inmates who alleged deplorable living conditions in county jails. The class-action lawsuit addressed accusations of neglect regarding the sanitation and health conditions at the Riverhead and Yaphank lockups, with inmates reporting infestations of rats and roaches in their cells. The settlement entails compensating anyone incarcerated since 2009, with initial plaintiffs receiving $20,000 each, excluding those held in the newer Yaphank facility post-2013.
Gabriella Larios from the New York Civil Liberties Union emphasized the importance of the settlement, indicating that it provides crucial relief to the affected individuals. She remarked that it showcases the end of the county’s longstanding neglect toward the inhumane conditions that inmates endured. The settlement marks a pivotal moment in recognizing inmates’ rights and calls for a much-needed change in the way the county manages its correctional facilities.
One of the significant aspects of the agreement is the commitment to overhaul the existing sanitary conditions within the jails. Suffolk County will appoint a dedicated employee focused on environmental health concerns for at least three years, ensuring enhanced oversight and responsibility in maintaining the facilities. Furthermore, all staff members and inmates working in crucial areas such as kitchens and housing units will receive training centered on cleaning and sanitation techniques.
Another major component of the reforms involves guaranteeing inmates access to personal cleaning supplies, protective gear like masks and gloves, and the provision of clean mattresses and blankets. These changes are expected to foster a healthier and safer environment for the inmates, addressing the fundamental issues highlighted in the lawsuit regarding inadequate hygiene practices during their incarceration.
Additionally, the jails will be required to upgrade outdated ventilation systems and resolve issues related to plumbing, rust, and mold. Implementing a comprehensive pest control program is also mandated, along with annual assessments conducted by an independent expert to ensure compliance with health standards. These measures aim to eradicate the persistent unhygienic conditions that have plagued the facilities for years.
The lawsuit originated in May 2011 when Rickey Lynch, along with 19 others, filed complaints about the hazardous living standards, alleging violations of their constitutional rights. The allegations included exposure to human waste, mold, and a shortage of clean drinking water. The eventual expansion of the case into a class-action suit involved 163 plaintiffs, showcasing the widespread impact of these issues. Michael Martino, a spokesperson for Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine, noted the efforts taken to limit taxpayer liability while affirming the county’s ongoing commitment to improve jail conditions moving forward.
