New Hampshire Held Liable for Historic Abuse at Youth Detention Center

A landmark jury verdict awards $38 million to a victim, spotlighting systemic failures despite a state cap on damages.

David Meehan awarded $38 million for abuses suffered at New Hampshire's Youth Development Center, though state caps will reduce actual payout.
Jury finds state negligence allowed repeated abuses including beatings and rape, marking a significant legal acknowledgment of systemic failures.
More than 1,100 former residents have filed abuse claims, suggesting widespread and long-term misconduct at the facility.
State's legal defense claims damages cap limits payout to $475,000, but the case is set for appeal, potentially influencing future claims.
The case could impact ongoing criminal proceedings and a state-created settlement fund meant as an alternative to litigation.