In 2008, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Santa Cruz County and Sheriff Tony Estrada, alleging unconstitutional strip searches of pre-arraignment arrestees without reasonable suspicion. The searches were conducted in areas visible to others, including members of the opposite sex. The lawsuit covered individuals booked between February 25, 2006, and August 26, 2008. In November 2008, the county agreed to a settlement of up to $3,187,300, with $2,162,300 allocated for verified claims to class members. Individual payments varied based on specific circumstances, with some receiving up to $3,500. The settlement also included $725,000 for attorney’s fees and $250,000 for claims administration costs.
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