Psychologist testifies in case of woman who says she was abused at group home

June 23, 2026 - 10:00

A clinical psychologist provided expert testimony Monday in a civil case where a woman is suing the state of New Hampshire for allegedly placing her in a group home where she was sexually abused by a known predator. The psychologist, who evaluated the plaintiff, told the court that the woman suffers from severe post-traumatic stress disorder and depression as a direct result of the abuse she endured while in state custody.

The lawsuit claims that state officials were negligent when they assigned the woman to a residential facility without properly screening the staff or disclosing known risks. According to court documents, the abuser had a prior record of sexual offenses but was still allowed to work unsupervised with vulnerable residents. The plaintiff's legal team argues that the state failed in its duty to protect her, a duty that is especially critical when individuals are placed in state care due to disability or family crisis.

During cross-examination, the defense questioned the psychologist's methods and suggested that the woman's current mental health issues could stem from other life experiences. The defense also maintained that the state followed standard placement procedures at the time. The trial is expected to continue for several more days, with additional witnesses including former staff members and other former residents of the group home. The plaintiff is seeking damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and ongoing therapy costs.