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$9M settlement in Thomas Valva's death awaiting judges approval

According to the motion, her counsel would get $3 million in the wrongful death settlement funds, while she would receive $5,645,615.

Karina Kovac

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Jun 1, 2026, 8:27 PM

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The details of a $9 million settlement in the wrongful death case of an 8-year-old Center Moriches boy in 2020 has been sent to a judge for final approval, according to court documents.

As News 12 previously reported, the agreement had been stalled because Thomas Valva's mother, Justyna Zubko-Valva, had not filed a motion for settlement approval, including the infant compromise application. Judge Brian M. Cogan gave her an ultimatum to sign the motion by May 28 or face a trial. She did so by the deadline.

According to the motion, her counsel would get $3 million in the wrongful death settlement funds, while she would receive $5,645,615.

Her sons Anthony and Andrew are expected to get $177,342 each, available to them when they reach 18 years old.

The suit claims that Suffolk County officials ignored warning signs her son was being abused, beaten and starved.

Thomas died of hypothermia on Jan. 17, 2020, after he had been forced to sleep in a freezing garage.

His father Michael Valva, a former NYPD officer, and his then fiancée Angela Pollina are currently serving 25 years to life in prison for his murder.

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