Investigation into Alleged Abuse at New Hampshire Youth Detention Center Unearths Troubling Past for Both Civil and Criminal Cases

Concord, New Hampshire – Attorneys for the state of New Hampshire began presenting their defense in a lawsuit brought by a man who claims he endured severe physical and sexual abuse as a teenager at the Sununu Youth Services Center. The trial sheds light on ongoing allegations of abuse at the youth detention center, as over 1,100 former residents have sued the state, resulting in an unprecedented criminal investigation. Eleven former state workers have been arrested thus far, as more than six decades of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse have been alleged. The unique aspect … Read more

Study Contradicts Concerns About Increased Youth Cannabis Use in Legal States

Las Vegas, Nevada – The debate surrounding the impact of legalizing cannabis on youth use has long been a contentious issue. Critics often argue that legalization could lead to an increase in cannabis consumption among young people. However, recent research is challenging this notion and providing valuable insights into the actual effects of cannabis reform. A recent study shed light on the prevalence of delta-8 THC use among high school seniors, a hemp-derived cannabinoid that is widely accessible outside of the legal cannabis industry. This raises questions about the extent of teen cannabis use in … Read more

D.C. Superior Court Hosts 25th Annual Youth Law Fair, Providing High School Students a Positive Insight into the Justice System

WASHINGTON (AP) — High school students in Washington, D.C. had the unique opportunity to gain a positive perspective of the court system during the 25th annual Youth Law Fair at the D.C. Superior Court on Saturday. The event allowed students to engage in mock trials as jurors, witnesses, attorneys, defendants, and even judges, providing them with firsthand experience of what happens inside a courtroom. More than 150 students attended the fair, which aimed to familiarize them with the judicial system. The theme of this year’s Youth Law Fair was “The Ride You Can’t Afford to … Read more

Juvenile Inmate Files Civil Rights Lawsuit Over Alleged Sexual Abuse at MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility

SALEM, Ore. – A man who was incarcerated as a juvenile in Oregon has filed a civil rights lawsuit alleging sexual abuse at the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn. The lawsuit specifically names former Oregon Youth Authority drug counselor Emily Echtenkamp, who is already facing charges of sexual misconduct related to the alleged abuse. The lawsuit also accuses five other employees of turning a blind eye to the abuse. According to the man’s lawyer, Norah Van Dusen, the allegations assert that Echtenkamp engaged in sexual abuse while the man was in custody, and that … Read more