A former leader at a youth detention center in New Hampshire was found guilty by a jury for assisting in the rape of a teenage boy back in 1998. The man, Bradley Asbury, who is now 70 years old, was convicted on both counts of being an accomplice to aggravated sexual assault. This verdict came after a four-day trial and three days of jury deliberation.
Asbury, who served as a house leader at the Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester, was accused of restraining a 14-year-old boy named Michael Gilpatrick on a staircase while a colleague and two other staff members were involved in the rape and sexual assault. This case was part of a broader investigation into long-standing abuse at the center, leading to the arrest of 11 men who worked there or at a related facility in Concord.
During the trial, Gilpatrick, now 41 years old, testified about the traumatic experience he endured and the impact it had on his life. He expressed his desire to hold the perpetrators accountable and seek justice for what happened to him. Despite facing intense cross-examination and scrutiny from the defense, Gilpatrick stood by his account of the events.
The defense lawyer, David Rothstein, argued that Gilpatrick’s testimony was unreliable and that he had fabricated details to fit a false narrative. He suggested that Gilpatrick’s motives could have been driven by financial gain, as he had already received a substantial amount from a related civil case. However, the prosecution maintained that Gilpatrick’s recollection of the key event was consistent and credible.
The trial shed light on the disturbing reality of abuse and misconduct at youth detention centers, prompting further investigation and legal action. The case against Asbury was a significant step towards holding accountable those responsible for such heinous acts. It also highlighted the long-lasting impact of trauma on survivors and the importance of seeking justice and closure.
As more victims come forward and share their stories, it is crucial to support their quest for truth and accountability. The legal proceedings and civil litigation resulting from these cases serve as a reminder of the need to address systemic issues and ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals in institutional settings.
The verdict in this case sends a powerful message about the consequences of enabling and participating in acts of abuse. It serves as a reminder that justice can be served, even years after the crimes were committed. Moving forward, it is essential to continue advocating for the rights of survivors and working towards preventing such atrocities from happening again in the future.
