New Hampshire settles youth center abuse case for $10 million

The New Hampshire attorney general's office has reached a $10 million settlement with Michael Gilpatrick, who alleged he was gang-raped in the 1990s at the state's youth detention center. This agreement comes as both sides opted for an out-of-court settlement, avoiding what would have been the second trial stemming from his allegations. The settlement amount is significantly higher than what is typically available to abuse victims through state claims but falls short of a jury's previous award in a related case, which is currently being contested by the state.

Gilpatrick, now 41, was just 14 years old when he was placed in the Youth Development Center (YDC) in 1997, where he claims to have suffered sexual and physical abuse at the hands of several staff members. His lawsuit detailed horrifying incidents, including being pinned down while being assaulted by multiple staffers. Gilpatrick described an environment of fear and isolation, stating, "You were literally stuck in your own thoughts, in your own fear every single day."

Criminal charges were brought against four former staff members based on his allegations, with varying outcomes. One was convicted and sentenced to 20 to 40 years in prison for being an accomplice to aggravated sexual assault, while another case ended in a mistrial due to a deadlocked jury. Gilpatrick maintained that these staff members operated as a gang, terrorizing the children in their care.

The settlement spares Gilpatrick from reliving traumatic memories in court, as he had previously testified in two trials, often confronting defense attorneys with his anger. He noted that he delayed speaking out about the abuse because the staff members were involved in his assaults and spent years trying to suppress those memories. His decision to come forward emerged from a personal journey toward self-acceptance and an understanding of the trauma he endured.

The Youth Development Center, which has faced scrutiny and legal challenges since investigations began in 2019, is set to close. Lawmakers approved plans to replace it with a smaller facility, following a troubling history that has seen past abuses come to light, including convictions of staff members. The center's current population has dwindled to fewer than a dozen youths, raising questions about its future operation as it continues to accommodate only those accused of the most severe crimes.