New Hampshire Youth Detention Center Abuse

FAQs About New Hampshire Youth Detention Center Abuse Lawsuits

How many survivors have come forward in NH?

Over the years, hundreds of former youth from the New Hampshire Youth Development Center (YDC) and Sununu Youth Services Center have come forward publicly or through confidential claims. Many reports surfaced in recent years, exposing decades of sexual abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and psychological trauma. While press generally covered some high-profile cases involving two staffers or individuals like Bradley Asbury, many survivors preferred to remain private due to fear of retaliation or stigma.

What is the average settlement amount?

Settlement amounts vary depending on the severity and duration of abuse, the impact on the survivor’s life, and whether the claim is through the state fund or a civil trial. Some survivors have received jury-awarded damages for emotional trauma, medical care, lost income, and punitive damages where the state or staff failed to prevent or cover up abuse. While there is no fixed average, compensation is designed to address both economic and non-economic losses caused by institutional failures.

Can I still file if I already received compensation?

Yes, in some cases, survivors may still be eligible to file additional claims or pursue a civil lawsuit even if they previously received fund compensation. This is especially true if new evidence emerges or if prior awards did not fully cover emotional trauma, lost income, or medical expenses. Your attorney can review your case history, including any previous settlement payouts, to determine eligibility.

Will my identity remain confidential?

Absolutely. The legal process prioritizes survivor safety and privacy. Most filings, whether through the YDC fund or civil lawsuits, include confidentiality protections to prevent your identity from being publicly disclosed. Courts and attorneys work closely to ensure survivors are not re-traumatized while seeking justice. Confidentiality is especially important for survivors who may later interact with adult jails, youth centers, or related state facilities.

What if I’m not sure which facility I was in?

Many survivors are unsure whether they were housed at the New Hampshire Youth Development Center (YDC), the Sununu Youth Services Center, or another youth detention center. This is common, as records from decades ago were often incomplete or lost. Attorneys experienced in juvenile detention abuse cases can help identify the correct facility using old placement records, intake forms, or state agency files. Even if a facility typically serves fewer than a dozen kids, you may still be eligible to file a claim or participate in the fund.

Can I participate anonymously?

Yes. Survivors seeking justice for abuse in detention centers can often participate confidentially or anonymously to protect their privacy. Legal processes and the fund include strong protections to prevent names from being disclosed publicly. Courts and attorneys take extra care to respect survivors’ wishes, ensuring that participation does not result in media exposure or coverage by outlets like the Associated Press. Your safety, privacy, and well-being are always prioritized throughout the claims process.

How long does the legal process take?

The timeline for filing a claim or pursuing a lawsuit can vary depending on whether you go through the state settlement fund or a civil lawsuit in court. fund claims may be resolved more quickly, while lawsuits in juvenile detention cases often take several months to a few years, depending on case complexity, evidence availability, and court schedules. Factors like staff accountability, prior investigations, and historical documentation may also influence timing. While the process may feel lengthy, survivors are supported every step of the way, and acting sooner rather than later helps ensure stronger cases and potentially faster resolution.