The New Hampshire Office of the Child Advocate has issued a report alleging that children at the state-run Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester have been subjected to punitive conditions, including extended lockdown, isolation, and at least one incident of illegal restraint that resulted in a broken bone. The facility initially received a report from a child in early March, followed by interviews with multiple youths describing restrictions lasting approximately six weeks.
During the lockdown period, children were denied full school programs and outdoor access, confined to long periods of isolation including during meals. Children told investigators they felt imprisoned, with one saying “we are in jail now” and another expressing concern that the conditions would worsen their mental health. The Child Advocate’s report, dated March 30 and signed by Cassandra Sanchez, alleges that on March 17, a child was held in an illegal prone restraint position for approximately 3 ½ minutes, resulting in a broken bone. Video footage of the incident did not match the facility’s internal reports, and documentation showed delays in providing medical care for the broken bone.
Historical Context and Leadership Changes
The facility, which serves high school-aged children with severe mental health conditions and disciplinary problems, has faced sweeping abuse allegations in recent years. More than 1,000 victims came forward alleging physical and sexual abuse dating back decades, resulting in criminal prosecutions and financial settlements. Joshua Nye, holding a master’s degree in counseling psychology, was approved by the New Hampshire Executive Council in December to lead the facility at a salary of $106,654. According to his resume, he launched a behavioral health center in Atkinson in 2025. The Child Advocate’s report indicates a shift toward a “correctional mindset” at the facility rather than the treatment-focused approach promoted over the previous years, though it does not explain Nye’s reasons for the lockdown.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.nhpr.org/nh-news/2026-04-10/watchdog-alleges-ydc-abuse-punitive-treatment-nh-youth-detention-center