Concord, NH — A New Hampshire court declared a mistrial in the rape case against a former worker of a youth rehabilitation center after the jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict, officials said Friday. The case has spotlighted the broader issues of safety and oversight in juvenile rehabilitation facilities.
The jury was deadlocked on several charges, including aggravated felonious sexual assault, against David Manson, 38, who worked at the Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester. Manson was accused of assaulting a teenage detainee multiple times in 2016. Despite days of deliberation, the jurors were unable to come to an agreement, prompting Hillsborough County Superior Court Judge Aaron Rosenberg to declare a mistrial.
The allegations against Manson are part of a larger lawsuit, wherein nearly 800 claims of physical or sexual harm spanning decades have been filed against the Sununu Youth Services Center, formerly known as the Youth Development Center. These claims involve more than 150 staffers and cover a period stretching back to 1960. This case against Manson is only one among many, signaling systemic issues at the facility.
State authorities have faced increasing pressure to address the pervasive allegations of abuse in youth centers. In response to the growing scandal, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu announced in March last year a plan to close the existing facility by March 2023 and replace it with a smaller, more modern center. Sununu emphasized the state’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on neglect and abuse of children.
During the proceedings, the prosecution portrayed Manson as an authoritative figure who abused his position to exploit vulnerable youths. However, Manson’s defense argued that the allegations were fabricated and questioned the credibility of the former detainee accusing Manson.
Legal experts believe the inability of the jury to reach a consensus reflects the complexity of cases involving institutions trusted with the care of vulnerable populations. “Jury deadlock in these types of cases isn’t uncommon,” noted criminal defense attorney Sarah Miller. “It reflects the challenges in dissecting testimonies and evidences linked with historical abuse allegations.”
Survivors and advocates for reform in the juvenile system expressed disappointment over the mistrial but remain hopeful that continued legal pressures will lead to significant reforms. “Each case, trial, and verdict is a step toward unveiling the truth and pushing for necessary reforms in how we handle juvenile care,” said Jacob Langley, a spokesperson for a local advocacy group.
The prosecutor’s office announced plans to retry the case, reinforcing their commitment to seeking justice for the alleged victims. “Our resolve to protect the vulnerable and hold the wrongs to account remains steadfast,” stated the lead prosecutor, though no date for a new trial has been set yet.
This mistrial thus serves as a critical juncture for authorities to reassess and fortify the mechanisms of oversight and care in juvenile rehabilitation centers, not just in New Hampshire but potentially setting precedents for similar institutions nationwide.