Why Inmates Might Not Get Their Share of a $1. 4M Settlement

A legal fight has started over who should get money from a $1. 4 million settlement meant for inmates who worked at a Maryland recycling center. The issue isn’t just about the money—it’s about who gets paid first. Victims of crimes, who are legally owed restitution, might miss out because the deal doesn’t set aside funds for them. The lawsuit argues that Maryland law says victims should be paid before inmates see a dime. But here’s the twist: while inmates could split $1. 4 million, their lawyers might take $2. 3 million instead. That’s more than the total going to the people who were harmed. Critics say this is unfair, especially when most restitution orders in Maryland go unpaid for years. Only about 6% of victims actually receive their money on time.The dispute comes from a bigger problem. Courts often struggle to enforce restitution payments, leaving victims in limbo. Even when settlements are made, there’s rarely a clear way to track down who’s owed what. The lawsuit wants a judge to force Baltimore County to find victims first and pay them before any money goes to inmates. Four victims have already stepped forward to demand their share. The timing is tight—a court hearing on the settlement is set for June. If approved, inmates could get paid quickly, but victims might still be waiting. The lawsuit asks for a pause until restitution is handled properly. Without that, the system risks failing those it’s supposed to protect.