NYC Department of Corrections ICE Detainers Settlement – If you were detained by the New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) because of an ICE detainer between 1997 and 2012, you may now be entitled to receive thousands of dollars in compensation. Thanks to a $92.5 million class action settlement, individuals affected by these unlawful detentions can claim payments as high as $48,000.
This landmark legal case comes after years of advocacy for the rights of immigrants and U.S. citizens unlawfully held beyond their release dates. The settlement is part of the “Onadia v. City of New York” class action lawsuit and is aimed at compensating those wrongfully detained solely because of ICE holds, even when there was no legal basis to continue holding them.
Whether you were directly affected or know someone who was, this article explains everything — who qualifies, how much you can receive, how to file a claim, and the official deadlines to keep in mind.
NYC Department of Corrections ICE Detainers Settlement
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $92.5 million |
| Eligible Period | April 1, 1997 – December 21, 2012 |
| Payment Range | $10,000 to $48,000 per claimant |
| Final Claim Deadline | May 15, 2025 |
| Eligible Claimants | Detained by NYC DOC due to ICE detainer, past their release date |
| Claim Website | www.NYCICESettlement.com |
| Support Contact | 1-800-479-0810 or [email protected] |
The NYC DOC ICE Detainers Settlement offers a pathway to justice and compensation for those unlawfully detained. If you qualify, act before the May 15, 2025 deadline. Learn more or file your claim at www.NYCICESettlement.com.
What Is the NYC DOC ICE Detainers Settlement About?
The NYC DOC ICE Detainers Settlement is the result of a lawsuit that challenged how the Department of Correction handled immigration detainers filed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
From 1997 to 2012, the NYC DOC allegedly honored thousands of ICE detainers without proper legal authority, causing individuals to remain behind bars even after their criminal charges were resolved or dismissed. Many of those affected were immigrants, green card holders, and even U.S. citizens, wrongfully held for days or weeks longer than allowed.
The case, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, claimed these detentions violated the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The City of New York agreed to settle without admitting wrongdoing.
Who Is Eligible for a Payout?
To be eligible for compensation from this settlement, you must meet the following criteria:
Basic Eligibility Criteria
- You were detained in a NYC Department of Correction facility (such as Rikers Island).
- Your detention was prolonged solely due to an ICE detainer.
- This occurred between April 1, 1997, and December 21, 2012.
- You were not serving time for another criminal conviction during the ICE hold.
You do not need to be a U.S. citizen, nor do you need to currently reside in the U.S. You also don’t need to provide detailed legal documents — the claim administrators will verify your detention through official DOC records.
How Much Money Can You Receive?
The amount of money you can receive depends on when and how long you were detained due to an ICE detainer. The settlement class is divided into two primary groups:
Group 1: Statute of Limitations Group
- Detained between April 1, 1997, and January 31, 2007
- Eligible to receive between $10,000 and $24,000
Group 2: Recent Claims Group
- Detained between February 1, 2007, and December 21, 2012
- Eligible to receive between $20,000 and $48,000
The exact payout will be calculated based on length of detention, supporting documentation (if available), and the total number of valid claims submitted.
How to File a Claim For NYC Department of Corrections ICE Detainers Settlement?
Filing a claim is straightforward and can be done online or by mail.
File Online
Visit www.NYCICESettlement.com and:
- Provide your name
- Enter a Claimant ID (if received)
- If no ID, enter “0” and your last name
- Complete the form with your detention details
File by Mail
Send your completed form to:
NYC ICE Settlement
c/o Atticus Administration
P.O. Box 64053
Saint Paul, MN 55164
Make sure your claim is submitted or postmarked by May 15, 2025.
What If the Detained Person Is Deceased?
If the affected individual has died, a legal representative or next of kin may file the claim on their behalf. Required documents may include a death certificate and proof of authority.
What Happens After You File?
- Your eligibility is verified using DOC and ICE records
- You’ll receive a notice of payment amount if approved
- Payments will be made after the final approval hearing on October 6, 2025
- Payments may be sent by check or direct deposit
Why This Case Matters?
This case is about more than money — it’s about justice. Thousands were unlawfully detained, leading to job loss, housing issues, missed court hearings, and even deportation proceedings. It highlights the need for due process and protects constitutional rights.
What Attorneys Say About This Case?
Legal experts view this case as a win for civil rights. Attorney Ghita Schwarz of the Center for Constitutional Rights said, “This case exposed the real-life consequences of unconstitutional immigration enforcement. We hope it becomes a blueprint for reforms nationwide.”
Reforms and Policy Changes Since the Case
As a result of the case, NYC passed laws after 2014 limiting cooperation with ICE. Now, a judicial warrant is required before honoring ICE detainers.
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FAQs About NYC Department of Corrections ICE Detainers Settlement
How do I know if I was detained due to an ICE detainer?
If you were held beyond your release date because of an immigration hold, it likely involved an ICE detainer.
I didn’t get a notice. Can I still file?
Yes. Use “0” for Claimant ID and proceed with your name.
Is this settlement only for immigrants?
No. U.S. citizens detained under ICE detainers are also eligible.
What documents do I need?
None are required initially. Additional documentation may help.
Can I opt out?
Yes. You must request to opt out by May 15, 2025.
Will this affect my immigration status?
No. Filing will not impact your status or expose you to ICE.
