FAST CASH: Americans to get one-time payment worth up to $7,824 from $17.5m photo settlement
According to THE SUN, The deadline to apply for part of a $17.5 million settlement from the New York Police Department (NYPD) is nearing, but the process to claim compensation is straightforward. The settlement follows a 2018 class-action lawsuit filed by two Muslim women in New York, alleging they were forced to remove their religious head coverings during post-arrest photographs.
Background of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit claimed that the women were left “sobbing” after NYPD officers forced them to remove their hijabs, exposing their hair and heads. In the Muslim faith, wearing a headscarf in public is a form of modesty and religious devotion. The lawsuit described one of the women as feeling “exposed and violated…as if she were naked in a public space” when the photographs were taken.
The complaint further alleged that officers misled the women by saying it was the law, then shared the photos with colleagues and stored them in an online database. Both women were reportedly arrested after family members made false accusations against them. The lawsuit argued that the NYPD’s policy was “unnecessary and discriminatory” and violated national norms, federal and state law, and the U.S. Constitution.
NYPD Settlement
Without admitting to any wrongdoing, the NYPD agreed to a $17.5 million settlement to avoid further litigation.
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Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
Individuals eligible for the payout must have been arrested by the NYPD and ordered to remove their religious coverings between March 16, 2014, and August 23, 2021. For each instance where a head covering was removed, claimants can receive $7,824.
However, individuals who owe money to the New York City Department of Finance for child support liens or other debts may have those amounts deducted from their share of the settlement.
How to File a Claim
Class members have until September 26, 2024, to submit their claim forms. The process is simple and can be completed online through the settlement website. This date is also the deadline for exclusions and objections to the settlement.
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Individuals who wish to object to the terms of the settlement must have their concerns addressed by the court. Those who choose to exclude themselves from the settlement will retain the right to pursue future legal action against the NYPD on the same claims. However, individuals who do not file a claim or exclude themselves will lose their right to future legal action and will not receive any compensation.
Final Approval and Other Settlements
The final approval hearing for this settlement is scheduled for October 29, 2024.
In addition to this case, other settlements are currently available. Homeowners could be eligible for a payout from a $2 million settlement if they meet specific criteria regarding a home appliance. Similarly, beauty enthusiasts may qualify for compensation in a settlement against a popular skincare brand over claims of misleading marketing.