Jeffrey Buskey faces sexual assault trial in New Hampshire

Jeffrey Buskey, 60, of Litchfield, began a criminal trial in New Hampshire on Monday facing 21 counts of aggravated felonious sexual assault. The charges involve the alleged abuse of David Meehan, who was 14 years old when he entered the Youth Development Center in Manchester in 1995. The facility is currently known as the Sununu Youth Services Center.

Buskey’s arrest more than seven years ago served as a catalyst for a massive investigation into widespread physical, sexual, and emotional abuse at the facility. Meehan was the first individual to file a lawsuit, which eventually contributed to more than 1,100 lawsuits alleging mistreatment spanning six decades. This investigation has led to nine additional arrests and the creation of a settlement fund for victims.

During a previous civil trial, Meehan testified that Buskey initially acted as a trusted figure, providing snacks and allowing him to play basketball with a local high school team before the abuse began. A jury awarded Meehan $38 million in 2024, though New Hampshire is currently seeking to reduce that amount. Buskey has denied all allegations, stating in court-filed transcripts that he maintained a “great relationship” with Meehan and was always trying to help him.