Case: Williamson v. Maciol

9:20-cv-00537 | U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York

Filed Date: May 12, 2020

Closed Date: Oct. 24, 2022

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

This is a class action about the unequal treatment of female general custody prisoners in the Oneida County Jail (“the Jail”). On May 12, 2020, three female general custody prisoners filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York on behalf of themselves and the jail's female general custody prisoners (present or future). The plaintiffs sued the Oneida County Sheriff and the Chief Deputy of the Oneida County Jail under the Declaratory Judgment Act for violati…

This is a class action about the unequal treatment of female general custody prisoners in the Oneida County Jail (“the Jail”). On May 12, 2020, three female general custody prisoners filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York on behalf of themselves and the jail's female general custody prisoners (present or future). The plaintiffs sued the Oneida County Sheriff and the Chief Deputy of the Oneida County Jail under the Declaratory Judgment Act for violations of the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment; they also alleged violations of Article I § 11 of the New York State Constitution. Represented by the Legal Services of Central New York, the plaintiffs sought declaratory and injunctive relief to prevent the Jail from denying female general custody prisoners equal access to the housing and program benefits that male general custody prisoners receive. The case was assigned to Judge Mae A. D'Agostino.

Plaintiffs claimed that the Jail discriminated against female general custody prisoners on the basis of gender by restricting these prisoners to “linear housing units” as opposed to “podular housing units” (pods), where male general custody prisoners are held, and by denying them equal access to programming and benefits. For men, the complaint explained, linear housing units were typically used to isolate prisoners with behavioral and disciplinary issues. But for women, they were used more generally.

The plaintiffs set out many allegations about the problems with linear units, which were smaller than pods and which severely restricted prisoner movement. In particular, it said, some of the units had not been updated since 1965 and were covered in dirt and human excrement that female prisoners were forced to remove using limited cleaning supplies. At best, linear units had small common spaces with four picnic tables, no air conditioning, and frosted windows that did not open. At worst, linear units did not have hot water, television, or books. The plaintiffs’ unit (at the time of the complaint) had one shower and one phone, only one of which could be used at a time. Plaintiffs alleged inconsistent access to hot water and clean cold water and could only watch television every other day. When they did, plaintiffs could only choose from a small selection of DVDs. Plaintiffs were allowed only one hour of outdoor recreation a day, and they did not have access to exercise equipment.

In contrast, the complaint alleged that pods, where male general custody prisoners were housed, allowed prisoners to move freely unless they were mandated to lock-in. Pods resembled small high school cafeterias and were connected to recreation areas with exercise equipment, basketball hoops, and a large window to let in fresh air. Pods also had small libraries with games and reading materials for the prisoners, a separate room for prisoners to video call their loved ones, cable televisions, hot water dispensers, microwaves, and air conditioning. Finally, pods contained eight showers (one for every seven prisoners) and seven telephones (one for every eight prisoners), which were in separate areas. Male general custody prisoners’ cells were bigger than the women's cells and had windows, unlike women's housing.

In addition to having more humane housing, plaintiffs alleged that male general custody prisoners who exhibited good behavior were given access to programming and benefits that similarly situated female general custody prisoners were denied, including free video calls and extra commissary items. Female general custody prisoners were also limited to laundry work programs, whereas male general custody prisoners had access to numerous work programs, including food service, car wash, general library, print shop, grounds maintenance, building maintenance, and janitorial services.

The plaintiffs moved for class certification a week after filing their complaint, and also moved for a preliminary injunction on June 10, 2020, asking the court to provide the plaintiffs the same housing privileges and benefits as male prisoners. On August 3, 2020, Judge D'Agostino granted the plaintiffs’ Motion for Class Certification but denied the plaintiffs’ Motion for Preliminary Injunction. 2020 WL 4449527. In denying plaintiffs' Motion for Preliminary Injunction, Judge D'Agostino concluded that the plaintiffs were not sufficiently likely to succeed on the merits because they probably could not demonstrate that female general custody prisoners were not receiving substantially equivalent treatment to their male counterparts. Furthermore, Judge D'Agostino concluded that the balance of equities tipped in the defendants' favor because the public interest is best served when courts do not interfere with the daily operations of local jails.

On August 8, 2020, plaintiffs appealed the district court’s order denying preliminary injunction to the Second Circuit. While the appeal of the district court’s order denying preliminary injunctive relief was pending before the Second Circuit, this case proceeded in the district court. On November 19, 2020, an Exhaustion Hearing was held before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart to determine if the plaintiffs had satisfied the exhaustion requirement under the Prison Litigation Reform Act. On December 7, 2020, the district court granted a request to remove Williamson and Terrell as class representatives.

On January 11, 2021, the Second Circuit vacated and remanded the district court’s order. In its analysis of whether the district court abused its discretion in denying the preliminary injunction, the Second Circuit examined the three grounds that the district court’s order proclaimed would be dispositive of whether plaintiffs were likely to succeed on the merits of their claim. The first ground was whether plaintiffs had exhausted their remedies, and the Second Circuit concluded that the district court clearly did not rely on this ground for denying preliminary relief. The second ground was whether plaintiffs received substantially equivalent treatment to comparable men. Although the district court concluded that the plaintiffs failed to demonstrate that general custody women did not receive substantially equivalent treatment to similarly situated men, the Second Circuit disagreed and determined that the present record did not warrant that conclusion.

Finally, the Second Circuit analyzed whether the disparities in treatment satisfied intermediate scrutiny, i.e., that the disparate treatment of general custody women was substantially related to an important government interest. The Second Circuit determined the current record did not support a finding that the disparate treatment satisfied intermediate scrutiny. Thus, the Second Circuit vacated the district court’s order and remanded the case to the district court to clarify its decision and make additional findings of fact or conclusions of law. 839 F. App'x 633 (2d Cir. 2021).

On March 11, 2021, Magistrate Judge Stewart issued a Report-Recommendation and Order recommending that the district court find that the alleged failure of the plaintiffs to exhaust their administrative remedies was not a basis for dismissing this action. Discovery was ongoing throughout 2021.

On January 14, 2022, United States District Judge D'Agostino adopted Magistrate Judge Stewart’s Report-Recommendation and Order in its entirety and granted the plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction. Within ten days of the preliminary injunction, the defendants were to return female general custody inmates to one of the pod housing units, providing them with the same housing option that male general custody inmates received. The preliminary injunction was to expire within 90 days of its effective date, and the plaintiffs were given the option to seek to renew the preliminary injunction for an additional 90 days by making a written extension request before this preliminary injunction expired. On April 14, 2022, the plaintiffs requested continued preliminary injunctive relief, and District Judge D’Agostino granted the order extending the preliminary injunction for an additional 90 days on April 22, 2022. 

On April 27, 2022, the plaintiffs moved for summary judgment and permanent injunction. The district court issued an order setting the date for a settlement conference for June 7, 2022. At the settlement conference, the case was deemed settled in principle, awaiting the County Attorney’s Office and County Legislative approval and for formal settlement papers. In light of the settlement in principle, the motion for summary judgment and response and reply deadline were stayed pending the final settlement. On August 2, 2022, District Judge D’Agostino granted preliminary approval of the settlement.

On October 24, 2022, the district court approved the class action settlement and issued an order dismissing this case.

Summary Authors

Becca Rogers (9/25/2020)

Nicole Brigstock (11/22/2024)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/17151271/parties/barrett-v-maciol/


Judge(s)

D'Agostino, Mae Avila (New York)

Attorney for Plaintiff

Adams, Sara (New York)

Cotter, Joshua T. (New York)

Heins, Maurie G. (New York)

Attorney for Defendant

Cartwright, Daniel (New York)

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Documents in the Clearinghouse

Document

9:20-cv-00537

Docket

Aug. 27, 2020

Aug. 27, 2020

Docket
1

9:20-cv-00537

Class Action Complaint

May 12, 2020

May 12, 2020

Complaint
28

9:20-cv-00537

Memorandum Decision and Order

Aug. 3, 2020

Aug. 3, 2020

Order/Opinion

2020 WL 4449527

20-CV-02779

Summary Order

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit

Jan. 11, 2021

Jan. 11, 2021

Order/Opinion

839 Fed.Appx. 633

73

9:20-cv-00537

Report Recommendation and Order

March 11, 2021

March 11, 2021

Order/Opinion

2021 WL 7161931

88

9:20-cv-00537

Memorandum Decision and Order

Jan. 14, 2022

Jan. 14, 2022

Order/Opinion

2022 WL 130878

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/17151271/barrett-v-maciol/

Last updated Aug. 7, 2025, 2:29 a.m.

ECF Number Description Date Link Date / Link
1

COMPLAINT against Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek (Filing fee $400 receipt number ANYNDC-5116096) filed by Nicole Williamson, Shannon Terrell, Sarah Barrett. (Attachments: # 1 Civil Cover Sheet)(meb) (Entered: 05/12/2020)

1 Civil Cover Sheet

View on RECAP

May 12, 2020

May 12, 2020

RECAP
2

Summons Issued as to Robert Maciol. (Attachments: # 1 Summons Issued as to Lisa Zurek)(meb) (Entered: 05/12/2020)

May 12, 2020

May 12, 2020

PACER
3

G.O. 25 FILING ORDER ISSUED: Initial Rule 16 Conference set for 8/10/2020 at 9:30 AM in Albany before Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart. Civil Case Management Plan must be filed and Mandatory Disclosures are to be exchanged by the parties on or before 8/3/2020. (Pursuant to Local Rule 26.2, mandatory disclosures are to be exchanged among the parties but are NOT to be filed with the Court.) (meb) (Entered: 05/12/2020)

May 12, 2020

May 12, 2020

PACER
4

TEXT-ONLY NOTICE REGARDING JUDGE D'AGOSTINO CASE DISPOSITION PILOT - Please refer to the Individual Rules and Practices of the Hon. Mae A. D'Agostino, U.S. District Judge, for guidance regarding the Case Disposition Pilot. https://www.nynd.uscourts.gov/sites/nynd/files/MAD_Rules_of_Practice_04_14_2020.pdf. (meb, ) (Entered: 05/12/2020)

May 12, 2020

May 12, 2020

PACER
5

NOTICE of Admission Requirement as to Parties Nicole Williamson, Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell; Attorney Sara Adams. Phone number is (315)-703-6500. Admissions due by 5/26/2020. (meb) (Entered: 05/12/2020)

May 12, 2020

May 12, 2020

PACER
6

NOTICE of Admission Requirement as to Parties Nicole Williamson, Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell; Attorney Maurie Heins. Phone number is (315)-703-6500. Admissions due by 5/26/2020. (meb) (Entered: 05/12/2020)

May 12, 2020

May 12, 2020

PACER
7

NOTICE of Appearance by David H. Walsh, IV on behalf of Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek (Walsh, David) (Entered: 05/14/2020)

May 14, 2020

May 14, 2020

PACER
8

WAIVER OF SERVICE Returned Executed by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek. Robert Maciol waiver sent on 5/14/2020, answer due 7/13/2020. (Walsh, David) (Entered: 05/14/2020)

May 14, 2020

May 14, 2020

PACER
9

NOTICE of Appearance by Maurie G. Heins on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Heins, Maurie) (Entered: 05/18/2020)

May 18, 2020

May 18, 2020

PACER
10

MOTION to Certify Class Motion Hearing set for 7/7/2020 10:00 AM in Albany before U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino Response to Motion due by 6/22/2020 Reply to Response to Motion due by 6/26/2020. filed by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum of Law in support of Plaintiffs' Motion, # 2 Declaration of Joshua Cotter in support of Plaintiffs' Motion, # 3 Exhibit(s) 1-3 to the Declaration of Joshua Cotter, # 4 Exhibit(s) 4-12 to the Declaration of Joshua Cotter) (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 05/21/2020)

May 21, 2020

May 21, 2020

PACER
11

NOTICE of Appearance by Sara Adams on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Adams, Sara) (Entered: 05/26/2020)

May 26, 2020

May 26, 2020

PACER
12

Letter Motion from Counsel for Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson requesting Approval to file a Motion for a Preliminary Injunction submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 05/26/2020)

May 26, 2020

May 26, 2020

PACER
13

Letter Motion from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Extension of Time submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 05/26/2020)

May 26, 2020

May 26, 2020

PACER
14

TEXT ORDER granting 13 Letter Motion: It is hereby ORDERED that the Defendants shall file a reply to 12 Plaintiffs letter for permission to file a preliminary injunction, by 6/2/2020. SO ORDERED by Judge Mae A. DAgostino on 5/28/2020. (ban) (Entered: 05/28/2020)

May 28, 2020

May 28, 2020

PACER

Order on Letter Request

May 28, 2020

May 28, 2020

PACER
15

Letter Motion from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Defendants' response to Plaintiffs' letter requesting permission to file motion for a preliminary injunction submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 06/01/2020)

June 1, 2020

June 1, 2020

PACER
16

NOTICE of Appearance by Daniel Cartwright on behalf of Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek (Cartwright, Daniel) (Entered: 06/05/2020)

June 5, 2020

June 5, 2020

PACER

TEXT Minute Entry for Telephone Pre-Motion Conference held on 6/8/2020 before U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino: Appearances by Samuel Young, Esq., Joshua Cotter, Esq., and Sara Adams, Esq. for the Plaintiffs; and David Walsh, Esq. for the defendants; Judge D'Agostino addresses counsel regarding the plaintiff's request for leave to file a motion for preliminary injunction and the already filed motion for class certification; Counsel for the plaintiff and counsel for the defense address the Court; After hearing from the parties, Judge D'Agostino will permit the plaintiff to file their motion for a preliminary injunction by 6/11/20; The motion return date shall be set for July 7, 2020 (ON SUBMIT) before Judge D'Agostino; Response papers will be due by 6/22/20; Reply papers will be due on or before 6/26/20; the motion will be decided on the submission of the papers only, unless otherwise directed by the Court; The Court will decide the motion for class action and the motion for preliminary injunction at the same time. (Court Reporter Lisa Tennyson, CRD Britney Norton [Time 1:58 p.m. - 2:16 p.m.]) (ban)

June 8, 2020

June 8, 2020

PACER
17

MAIL RETURNED UNDELIVERABLE: The # 6 Notice of Admission Requirement that was sent to Attorney Maurie Heins, Esq. at 221 South Warren Street, 3rd Floor, Syracuse, NY 13202 was returned undeliverable. Envelope marked: "Not Here - Return to Sender - Not Deliverable as Addressed - Unable to Forward." (rep) (Entered: 06/09/2020)

June 9, 2020

June 9, 2020

PACER
18

MOTION for Preliminary Injunction Motion Hearing set for 7/7/2020 10:00 AM in Albany before U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino Response to Motion due by 6/22/2020 Reply to Response to Motion due by 6/26/2020. filed by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration of Joshua Cotter in support of the Motion, # 2 Exhibit(s) 1-3 to the Declaration of Joshua Cotter, # 3 Exhibit(s) 4-12 to the Declaration of Joshua Cotter, # 4 Exhibit(s) 13-16 to the Declaration of Joshua Cotter, # 5 Memorandum of Law) (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 06/10/2020)

1 Declaration of Joshua Cotter in support of the Motion

View on PACER

2 Exhibit(s) 1-3 to the Declaration of Joshua Cotter

View on PACER

3 Exhibit(s) 4-12 to the Declaration of Joshua Cotter

View on PACER

4 Exhibit(s) 13-16 to the Declaration of Joshua Cotter

View on PACER

5 Memorandum of Law

View on PACER

June 10, 2020

June 10, 2020

RECAP
19

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 06/10/2020)

June 10, 2020

June 10, 2020

PACER
20

Letter Motion from David Walsh, Esq. for Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Extension of Time submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 06/15/2020)

June 15, 2020

June 15, 2020

PACER
21

TEXT ORDER granting 20 Letter Request re 10 MOTION to Certify Class, 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction : It is hereby ORDERED that the joint request for an extension of the Plaintiffs' and Defendants' response and reply dates for both motions is GRANTED. Defendants' response to motions are due on or before 6/24/2020; Plaintiffs' Reply to Response to Motions are due by 6/29/2020. Signed by U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino on 6/17/20. (ban) (Entered: 06/17/2020)

June 17, 2020

June 17, 2020

PACER

Reset Deadlines as to 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction, 10 MOTION to Certify Class - Response to Motion due by 6/24/2020, Reply to Response to Motion due by 6/29/2020. (ban)

June 17, 2020

June 17, 2020

PACER

Order on Letter Request

June 17, 2020

June 17, 2020

PACER
22

AFFIDAVIT re 10 MOTION to Certify Class filed by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek. (Walsh, David) Modified on 6/25/2020 to clarify docket text (rep). (Entered: 06/24/2020)

June 24, 2020

June 24, 2020

PACER
23

AFFIDAVIT in Opposition re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration Declaration of Maciol, # 2 Declaration Declaration of Zurek, # 3 Declaration Declaration of Harris, # 4 Memorandum of Law)(Walsh, David) (Entered: 06/24/2020)

June 24, 2020

June 24, 2020

PACER
24

REPLY to Response to Motion re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration Supplementing the initial Declaration of Joshua Cotter in support of the motion, # 2 Exhibit(s) 1-5 to the Supplemental Declaration of Joshua Cotter)(Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 06/29/2020)

June 29, 2020

June 29, 2020

PACER
25

Letter Motion from Joshua Cotter for Nicole Williamson requesting Enclosing thumb drive with video files submitted to Judge D'Agostino (delivered to Clerk's Office). (Young, Samuel) (Entered: 07/01/2020)

July 1, 2020

July 1, 2020

PACER
26

THUMB DRIVE: Received as an exhibit of the # 24 Reply. {Thumb drive on file in the Clerk's Office and is not available for public viewing}. (rep) (Entered: 07/02/2020)

July 1, 2020

July 1, 2020

PACER
27

ANSWER to 1 Complaint by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek.(Walsh, David) (Entered: 07/13/2020)

July 13, 2020

July 13, 2020

PACER
28

MEMORANDUM-DECISION AND ORDER: GRANTING Plaintiff's 10 Motion For Class Certification and DENYING Plaintiff's 18 Motion for Preliminary Injunction. The Court further orders that the Clerk of the Court shall serve a copy of this Memorandum-Decision and Order on all parties in accordance with the Local Rules. Signed by U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino on August 3, 2020. (rep)

Aug. 3, 2020

Aug. 3, 2020

RECAP
29

CIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek. (Walsh, David) (Entered: 08/03/2020)

Aug. 3, 2020

Aug. 3, 2020

RECAP
30

TEXT ORDER: The Rule 16 Initial Conference in this matter is set for August 10, 2020 at 9:30 AM before the undersigned and will be conducted by TELEPHONE. The Court will issue a separate notice setting forth the instructions to connect to the conference call. SO ORDERED by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 8/7/2020. (mab) (Entered: 08/07/2020)

Aug. 7, 2020

Aug. 7, 2020

PACER

Order

Aug. 7, 2020

Aug. 7, 2020

PACER

Text Minute Entry for proceedings held before Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart: Rule 16 Initial Pretrial Conference held on 8/10/2020. Appearances: Joshua Cotter, Esq. and Samuel Young, Esq. for Plaintiffs; Daniel Cartwright, Esq. for Defendants. The Court hears from counsel as to their positions in this matter and as to how they intend to proceed. Court discusses the potential for settlement. The Court discusses question of fact that remains as to Plaintiffs' exhaustion of administrative remedies pursuant to District Judge D'Agostino's Memorandum-Decision and Order. The Court believes that resolving these questions early on will be beneficial as the case progresses. The Court schedules an exhaustion hearing. Deadlines set. A Scheduling Order to be issued. (TIME: 9:31AM-9:54AM). (mab)

Aug. 10, 2020

Aug. 10, 2020

PACER
31

TEXT ORDER: As per the Court's August 3, 2020 Memorandum-Decision and Order (Dkt. No. 28), questions of fact exist as to Plaintiffs' exhaustion of administrative remedies. As such, the issue of exhaustion is referred to Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart in order to set an exhaustion hearing with the parties. Signed by U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino on 8/14/2020. (ban) (Entered: 08/14/2020)

Aug. 14, 2020

Aug. 14, 2020

PACER
32

UNIFORM PRETRIAL SCHEDULING ORDER: Anticipated length of trial: 4 Days. Preferred Trial Location: Albany, NY. Joinder of Parties due by 1/29/2021. Amended Pleadings due by 1/29/2021. Discovery due by 6/30/2021. Motions to be filed by 8/31/2021. Status Report due by 11/30/2020. Signed by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 8/14/2020. (mab) (Entered: 08/14/2020)

Aug. 14, 2020

Aug. 14, 2020

PACER
33

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE WHY DEFENDANTS SHOULD NOT OBTAIN SEPARATE COUNSEL as to Defendants Robert Maciol and Lisa Zurek. Signed by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 8/14/2020. (mab) (Entered: 08/14/2020)

Aug. 14, 2020

Aug. 14, 2020

PACER

Set Deadlines: Defendants to respond to 33 Order to Show Cause on or before 10/13/2020. (mab)

Aug. 14, 2020

Aug. 14, 2020

PACER
34

TEXT ORDER: An Exhaustion Hearing in this matter is scheduled for October 15, 2020 at 9:30 AM before the undersigned. The parties are directed to file pre-hearing submissions, including witness lists and exhibit lists, on or before October 5, 2020. Two sets of exhibits shall be provided to the Court and a set provided to opposing counsel prior to the date of scheduled hearing. SO ORDERED by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 8/14/2020. (mab) (Entered: 08/14/2020)

Aug. 14, 2020

Aug. 14, 2020

PACER

Order

Aug. 14, 2020

Aug. 14, 2020

PACER

~Util - Set Hearings AND Order

Aug. 14, 2020

Aug. 14, 2020

PACER
35

NOTICE OF INTERLOCUTORY APPEAL as to 28 Order on Motion to Certify Class,, Order on Motion for Preliminary Injunction, by Nicole Williamson. Filing fee $ 505, receipt number ANYNDC-5212444. (Young, Samuel) Modified on 8/20/2020 to indicate the appeal is interlocutory (rep, ). (Entered: 08/20/2020)

Aug. 20, 2020

Aug. 20, 2020

PACER
36

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE by Nicole Williamson of Notice of Appeal (Young, Samuel) (Entered: 08/20/2020)

Aug. 20, 2020

Aug. 20, 2020

PACER
37

ELECTRONIC NOTICE AND CERTIFICATION sent to US Court of Appeals regarding the 35 Notice of Interlocutory Appeal. (rep) (Entered: 08/20/2020)

Aug. 20, 2020

Aug. 20, 2020

PACER

CLERK'S CORRECTION OF DOCKET ENTRY: The clerk modified the docket text of the # 35 Appeal to indicate that it is an Interlocutory Appeal. (rep)

Aug. 20, 2020

Aug. 20, 2020

PACER

USCA Case Number 20-2779 for 35 Notice of Appeal. (rep)

Aug. 27, 2020

Aug. 27, 2020

PACER
38

Letter Motion from defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Rescheduling of Exhaustion Hearing submitted to Judge Stewart . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 09/16/2020)

Sept. 16, 2020

Sept. 16, 2020

PACER
39

TEXT ORDER: On September 16, 2020, Defendants filed a Letter Request, with the consent of Plaintiffs, seeking to reschedule the Exhaustion Hearing in this matter. Dkt. No. 38 . Based upon the reasons set forth in Defendants' submission and upon the consent of the parties, the request is GRANTED and the Exhaustion Hearing is RESCHEDULED for November 19, 2020 at 9:30 AM in Albany, NY before the undersigned. The parties are directed to file pre-hearing submissions, including witness lists and exhibit lists, on or before November 9, 2020. Two sets of exhibits shall be provided to the Court and a set provided to opposing counsel prior to the date of scheduled hearing. SO ORDERED by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 9/23/2020. (mab) (Entered: 09/23/2020)

Sept. 23, 2020

Sept. 23, 2020

PACER

Order on Letter Request

Sept. 23, 2020

Sept. 23, 2020

PACER
42

Letter Motion from Counsel for Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson requesting Permission to File Motion for Partial Summary Judgment submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 11/03/2020)

Nov. 3, 2020

Nov. 3, 2020

PACER
43

Letter Response from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Response to Plaintiffs' 11/03/20 42 Letter submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Walsh, David) Modified on 11/3/2020 to clarify docket text (rep). (Entered: 11/03/2020)

Nov. 3, 2020

Nov. 3, 2020

PACER
44

Amended Letter Motion from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Amended Response to Plaintiff's 11.03.20 submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 11/03/2020)

Nov. 3, 2020

Nov. 3, 2020

PACER
45

TEXT ORDER denying 42 44 letter requests. In a letter motion dated November 3, 2020, Plaintiffs' counsel asks this Court for permission to file a motion for partial summary judgment on the issue of exhaustion and to postpone the exhaustion hearing scheduled for November 19, 2020. See Dkt. No. 42. Defendants oppose Plaintiffs' request, arguing that questions of fact would preclude the Court from granting any such motion and that the case upon which Plaintiffs rely is distinguishable. Plaintiffs' request is denied. Upon conclusion of the exhaustion hearing, the parties will be permitted to raise all arguments relevant to their positions in post-hearing motions. This will avoid the need for the Court to potentially address serial motions for summary judgment should Plaintiffs' proposed pre-hearing motion be denied. IT IS SO ORDERED. Signed by U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino on 11/9/2020. (ban) (Entered: 11/09/2020)

Nov. 9, 2020

Nov. 9, 2020

PACER
46

Letter Motion from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Conference submitted to Judge Stewart . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 11/09/2020)

Nov. 9, 2020

Nov. 9, 2020

PACER

Text Minute Entry for proceedings held by teleconference before Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart: Telephone Conference held on 11/9/2020. Appearances: Joshua Cotter, Esq. for Plaintiffs; David Walsh, Esq. for Defendants. The Court summarizes the status of the case thus far and purpose for the conference. The request for an extension until November 11, 2020 for submissions related to the exhaustion hearing is granted. An order will be entered. (Court Reporter Theresa Casal) (dpk)

Nov. 9, 2020

Nov. 9, 2020

PACER

Order on Letter Request AND Order on Letter Request

Nov. 9, 2020

Nov. 9, 2020

PACER
47

TEXT ORDER granting 46 Letter Request for a conference, and for an extension of time until November 11, 2020, for counsel to file their pre-hearing submissions. The Exhaustion Hearing will proceed as scheduled on November 19, 2020 at 9:30 am. Signed by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 11/10/2020. (Stewart, Daniel) (Entered: 11/10/2020)

Nov. 10, 2020

Nov. 10, 2020

PACER
48

LETTER BRIEF Re: Exhibit List For Exhaustion Hearing by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek. (Walsh, David) (Entered: 11/11/2020)

Nov. 11, 2020

Nov. 11, 2020

PACER
49

Exhibit List by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson. (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 11/11/2020)

Nov. 11, 2020

Nov. 11, 2020

PACER
50

PRETRIAL STIPULATION by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson. (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 11/11/2020)

Nov. 11, 2020

Nov. 11, 2020

PACER
51

Witness List by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson. (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 11/11/2020)

Nov. 11, 2020

Nov. 11, 2020

PACER
52

TRIAL BRIEF by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson. (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 11/11/2020)

Nov. 11, 2020

Nov. 11, 2020

PACER
53

Witness List by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek. (Walsh, David) (Entered: 11/16/2020)

Nov. 16, 2020

Nov. 16, 2020

PACER
54

Exhibit List Reflecting Parties' Amendments by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson. (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 11/17/2020)

Nov. 17, 2020

Nov. 17, 2020

PACER
55

Minute Entry for Exhaustion Hearing held on 11/19/2020 via video before Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart. Appearances: Joshua T. Cotter, Esq. for Plaintiffs; David H. Walsh, Esq. for Defendants. Exhibits P-1 through P-14 are admitted into evidence. Defendants' Witness: Lt. Deborah Harris. Plaintiffs' Witnesses: Sarah Barrett, Carrie Bachmann, Sabrina Davis and Katrina Parkhurst. Plaintiffs move the Court under F.R.C.P. 52(c); the Defendants are heard in response. The Court reserves on Plaintiffs' motion. Evidence is closed; the Court directs supplemental briefings to be filed by December 7, 2020. (Court Reporter Lisa Tennyson/CRD: D. Krug) (dpk) (Entered: 11/19/2020)

Nov. 19, 2020

Nov. 19, 2020

PACER
56

Joint Exhibit List as executed during the Exhaustion Hearing. (dpk) (Entered: 11/19/2020)

Nov. 19, 2020

Nov. 19, 2020

PACER
57

TRANSCRIPT REQUEST by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson for proceedings held on 11/19/2020 before Judge Stewart.. (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 11/30/2020)

Nov. 30, 2020

Nov. 30, 2020

PACER
58

TRANSCRIPT REQUEST by Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson for proceedings held on 11/19/2020 before Judge Stewart.. (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 11/30/2020)

Nov. 30, 2020

Nov. 30, 2020

PACER
59

Letter Motion from Counsel for Sarah Barrett, Shannon Terrell, Nicole Williamson requesting the Removal of Shannon Terrell and Nicole Williamson as Class Representatives and Plaintiffs submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order/Judgment)(Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 12/04/2020)

Dec. 4, 2020

Dec. 4, 2020

PACER
60

ORDER: Granting the 59 Letter Request removing Nicole Williamson and Shannon Terrell as class representatives. The case caption shall be amended to reflect the removal of these two defendants. Signed by U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino on December 7, 2020. (rep) (Entered: 12/07/2020)

Dec. 7, 2020

Dec. 7, 2020

PACER
61

TRIAL BRIEF for the Exhaustion Hearing by Sarah Barrett. (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 12/07/2020)

Dec. 7, 2020

Dec. 7, 2020

PACER
62

TRIAL BRIEF For the Exhaustion Hearing by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek. (Walsh, David) (Entered: 12/07/2020)

Dec. 7, 2020

Dec. 7, 2020

PACER
63

Letter Motion from Counsel for Sarah Barrett requesting the Court Strike a Portion of Defendants' Post-Hearing Brief from Consideration submitted to Judge Stewart . (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 12/08/2020)

Dec. 8, 2020

Dec. 8, 2020

PACER
64

RESPONSE/LETTER MOTION from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Denial of Plaintiff's Request submitted to Judge Stewart . (Walsh, David) Modified on 12/9/2020 to clarify docket text (rep). (Entered: 12/08/2020)

Dec. 8, 2020

Dec. 8, 2020

PACER
65

CERTIFIED ORDER OF USCA: As to the 35 Notice of Appeal - It is hereby Ordered, Adjudged, and Decreed that the District Court's Order is VACATED and the case is REMANDED for further proceedings. {Certified copy issued on 1/11/2021}. (rep) (Entered: 01/11/2021)

Jan. 11, 2021

Jan. 11, 2021

PACER
66

TRANSCRIPT of Proceedings: Exhaustion Hearing held on November 19, 2020, before Judge Daniel J. Stewart, Court Reporter: Lisa L. Tennyson, Telephone number: (518) 257-1823. IMPORTANT NOTICE - REDACTION OF TRANSCRIPTS: In order to remove personal identifier data from the transcript, a party must electronically file a Notice of Intent to Request Redaction with the Clerk's Office within 5 business days of this date. The policy governing the redaction of personal information is located on the court website at www.nynd.uscourts.gov. Read this policy carefully. If no Notice of Intent to Redact is filed within 5 business days of this date, the court will assume redaction of personal identifiers is not necessary and the transcript will be made available on the web 90 days from today's date. Transcript may be viewed at the court public terminal or purchased through the Court Reporter/Transcriber before the deadline for Release of Transcript Restriction. After that date it may be obtained through PACER. Redaction Request due 2/4/2021. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 2/16/2021. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 4/14/2021. Notice of Intent to Redact due by 1/19/2021 (lt, ) (Entered: 01/14/2021)

Jan. 14, 2021

Jan. 14, 2021

PACER
67

Letter Motion from Plaintiffs' Counsel for Sarah Barrett requesting a Conference with the Court submitted to Judge D'Agostino . (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 01/14/2021)

Jan. 14, 2021

Jan. 14, 2021

PACER
68

TEXT ORDER granting 67 Letter Request for a status conference: It is hereby ORDERED that the plaintiffs request for a status conference is GRANTED. A telephone status conference is set for Monday, February 8, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. before Judge D'Agostino. Dial-in instructions will be provided to counsel. Signed by U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino on 1/15/21. (ban) (Entered: 01/15/2021)

Jan. 15, 2021

Jan. 15, 2021

PACER

Order on Letter Request

Jan. 15, 2021

Jan. 15, 2021

PACER
69

MANDATE OF USCA: It is hereby ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that the district courts order is VACATED and the case is REMANDED for further proceedings. {Mandate issued on February 4, 2021}. (rep) (Entered: 02/05/2021)

Feb. 4, 2021

Feb. 4, 2021

PACER

TEXT Minute Entry for Telephone Status Conference held on 2/8/2021 before U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino: Appearances by Joshua Cotter, Esq. and Samuel Young, Esq. for the Plaintiffs; David Walsh,IV, Esq. and Daniel Cartwright, Esq. for the defendants; Plaintiff's counsel requested a status conference; A telephone conference was held today. Judge D'Agostino will permit Counsel to submit supplemental briefing - Counsel's briefs should include factual briefing on the evidence and pursuant to the issues addressed in the Mandate; Defendant's Supplemental Brief shall be filed on or before 2/22/21; Plaintiff's supplemental brief shall be filed on or before 3/8/21. (Court Reporter Theresa Casal, CRD Britney Norton [Time 1:31 p.m. - 1:36 p.m.]) (ban) Modified on 2/19/2021 (ban, ).

Feb. 8, 2021

Feb. 8, 2021

PACER
70

Letter Motion from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Extension submitted to Judge Mae DAgostino . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 02/18/2021)

Feb. 18, 2021

Feb. 18, 2021

PACER
71

TEXT ORDER granting 70 Letter Request: It is hereby ORDERED that the defendant's request for an extension of the supplemental briefing schedule is GRANTED; The defendant's brief shall be filed on or before 3/1/21; Plaintiff's supplemental brief shall be filed on or before 3/15/21. Signed by U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino on 2/19/21. (ban) (Entered: 02/19/2021)

Feb. 19, 2021

Feb. 19, 2021

PACER

Order on Letter Request

Feb. 19, 2021

Feb. 19, 2021

PACER
72

AFFIDAVIT in Opposition re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit(s) Supplemental Declaration of Zurek, # 2 Memorandum of Law Supplemental Memorandum of Law)(Walsh, David) (Entered: 03/01/2021)

March 1, 2021

March 1, 2021

PACER
73

REPORT-RECOMMENDATION AND ORDER: It is hereby RECOMMENDED, that the Court find that the alleged failure to exhaust administrative remedies is not a basis for dismissal of this action; and it is further ORDERED, that the Clerk of the Court serve a copy of this Report-Recommendation upon the parties to this action. Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(1), the parties have fourteen (14) days within which to file written objections to the foregoing report. Such objections shall be filed with the Clerk of the Court. FAILURE TO OBJECT TO THIS REPORT WITHIN FOURTEEN (14) DAYS WILL PRECLUDE APPELLATE REVIEW. Signed by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on March 11, 2021. {Objections to R&R due by 3/25/2021}(rep)

March 11, 2021

March 11, 2021

RECAP

Set Objection Deadlines as to 73 REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS re 1 Complaint filed by Nicole Williamson, Shannon Terrell, Sarah Barrett : Objections to R&R due by 3/25/2021 (ban)

March 12, 2021

March 12, 2021

PACER
74

MEMORANDUM OF LAW re 72 Affidavit in Opposition to Motion, filed by Sarah Barrett. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration of Joshua Cotter, # 2 Exhibit(s) 1-3 to the Supplemental Declaration of Joshua Cotter, # 3 Exhibit(s) Part 1 of Exhibit 4, # 4 Exhibit(s) Part 2 of Exhibit 4, # 5 Exhibit(s) 5-7 of the Supplemental Declaration of Joshua Cotter)(Cotter, Joshua) (Attachment 3 replaced on 3/22/2021) (rep, ). (Attachment 5 replaced on 3/22/2021) (rep, ). (Attachment 4 replaced on 3/22/2021) (rep, ). (Entered: 03/15/2021)

March 15, 2021

March 15, 2021

PACER
75

Letter Motion from Plaintiffs' Counsel for Sarah Barrett requesting an extension of the discovery deadline submitted to Judge Stewart . (Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 03/18/2021)

March 18, 2021

March 18, 2021

PACER

CLERK'S CORRECTION OF DOCKET ENTRY: The clerk replaced attachments 3, 4, and 5 to the 74 Memorandum of Law to rotate the pages in the same direction. (rep)

March 22, 2021

March 22, 2021

PACER
76

TEXT ORDER granting the parties jointly filed 75 Letter Request seeking an extension of the deadlines in this matter. The Court amends the Scheduling Order as follows: 1) Plaintiffs to serve expert disclosures by July 2, 2021; 2) Defendants to serve expert disclosures by August 16, 2021; 3) Rebuttals to be served by August 31, 2021; 4) Discovery to be completed by September 30, 2021; 5) Dispositive motions to be filed by December 3, 2021; and 6) All other provisions previously set forth in the 32 Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order remain in effect. SO ORDERED by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 3/23/2021. (mab) (Entered: 03/23/2021)

March 23, 2021

March 23, 2021

PACER

Order on Letter Request

March 23, 2021

March 23, 2021

PACER
77

Letter Motion from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Conference submitted to Judge Stewart . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 09/08/2021)

Sept. 8, 2021

Sept. 8, 2021

PACER
78

RESPONSE TO LETTER BRIEF filed by Sarah Barrett as to 77 Letter Request/Motion filed by Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek . (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit(s) Exhibit 1, # 2 Exhibit(s) Exhibit 2, # 3 Exhibit(s) Exhibit 3)(Cotter, Joshua) (Entered: 09/09/2021)

Sept. 9, 2021

Sept. 9, 2021

PACER
79

Letter Motion from Defendants for Robert Maciol, Lisa Zurek requesting Extension submitted to Judge Stewart . (Walsh, David) (Entered: 09/24/2021)

Sept. 24, 2021

Sept. 24, 2021

PACER
80

TEXT ORDER granting Defendants' 77 Letter Request seeking a conference to address discovery issues that have arisen in this matter. Counsel are directed to appear for a Discovery Telephone Conference on September 29, 2021 at 9:30 AM before the undersigned. The Court will issue a separate notice setting forth the instructions to connect to the conference call. SO ORDERED by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 9/24/2021. (mab) (Entered: 09/24/2021)

Sept. 24, 2021

Sept. 24, 2021

PACER

Order on Letter Request

Sept. 24, 2021

Sept. 24, 2021

PACER
81

TEXT ORDER. In connection with an outstanding discovery dispute, an on-the-record telephone conference was held with the parties. Based upon that conference, the Court directs defense counsel to provide an update by October 8, 2021, regarding any additional issues associated with the production of the requested information. Counsel for the Plaintiff shall then have until October 12, 2021, to submit a response. If any dispute remains, the Court will issue an order at that time. Finally, the time period for the completion of discovery in this matter is extended until December 31, 2021. Dispositive motions, if any, are to be filed before January 31, 2022. SO ORDERED. Signed by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on 9/29/2021. (Stewart, Daniel) (Entered: 09/29/2021)

Sept. 29, 2021

Sept. 29, 2021

PACER

Case Details

State / Territory: New York

Case Type(s):

Jail Conditions

Special Collection(s):

Multi-LexSum (in sample)

Key Dates

Filing Date: May 12, 2020

Closing Date: Oct. 24, 2022

Case Ongoing: No

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

Three female general custody prisoners, on behalf of all female general custody prisoners who are or will be incarcerated at the Oneida County Jail.

Plaintiff Type(s):

Private Plaintiff

Attorney Organizations:

Legal Services/Legal Aid

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: Yes

Class Action Outcome: Granted

Defendants

County Sheriff and Chief Deputy of the County Jail (Oneida), County

Defendant Type(s):

Corrections

Facility Type(s):

Government-run

Case Details

Causes of Action:

42 U.S.C. § 1983

State law

Declaratory Judgment Act, 28 U.S.C. § 2201

Ex parte Young (federal or state officials)

Constitutional Clause(s):

Equal Protection

Available Documents:

Trial Court Docket

Complaint (any)

Outcome

Prevailing Party: Plaintiff

Nature of Relief:

Preliminary injunction / Temp. restraining order

Source of Relief:

Settlement

Litigation

Form of Settlement:

Court Approved Settlement or Consent Decree

Content of Injunction:

Preliminary relief granted

Order Duration: 2022 - 2022

Issues

General/Misc.:

Classification / placement

Conditions of confinement

Food service / nutrition / hydration

Sanitation / living conditions

Totality of conditions

Discrimination Area:

Disparate Treatment

Discrimination Basis:

Sex discrimination

Affected Sex/Gender(s):

Female

Jails, Prisons, Detention Centers, and Other Institutions:

Library (non-law) access

Recreation / Exercise