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Suffolk County has agreed to a $9 million settlement with the mother of Thomas Valva — the 8-year-old boy who was murdered by his father, a former NYPD officer, in 2020
Justyna Zubko-Valva alleged in the federal lawsuit that county officials, her son’s school district, and child protective services failed to protect her autistic child. Thomas Valva died from hypothermia after his father, Michael Valva, forced him to sleep in a freezing garage.
Michael Valva was convicted of second-degree murder in 2022 and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. Thomas’ stepmother, Angela Pollina, was convicted of murder in 2023 and received the same sentence.
Zubko-Valva’s attorney Tom Bosworth said the settlement, while substantial, could never compensate for the loss of Thomas.
“While this settlement won’t bring back Justyna’s son, an unbelievable loss that she’ll have to live with the rest of her life, it represents an admission from the county that he didn’t have to die,” he said. “We’re pleased the county decided to settle this case and own up to their mistakes that led to this tragic and preventable death.”
The Suffolk County Legislature is expected to formally approve the settlement next month.
Bosworth said the agreement sends a broader message about the responsibility of officials to protect vulnerable children.
“This settlement sends a message that vulnerable children need to be protected at all costs,” he said, “and when those who are responsible for their care show such disregard for their well-being, they must be held accountable.
“We’ll never stop fighting for what’s right,” he added.
Top: Thomas Valva’s mother Justyna Zubko-Valva in 2020 (GLI file photo).
