Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Ex–New Hampshire YDC Worker James Woodlock Sentenced to 20–40 Years for Accomplice Role in Sex Assaults

The judge imposed consecutive 10-to-20-year terms following a compelling statement from accuser David Meehan.

Overview

  • Woodlock was convicted in September on two counts of being an accomplice to aggravated felonious sexual assault and was acquitted on a third count.
  • Prosecutors said he stood guard, held David Meehan down during the assaults, and beat him afterward during his time at the Youth Development Center in the 1990s.
  • Judge N. William Delker said the punishment is driven by retribution and deterrence, calling Meehan’s testimony vivid and crediting him for bringing the crimes to light.
  • State prosecutors sought the maximum 10 to 20 years on each count, while Woodlock maintains his innocence and his defense submitted character letters urging leniency.
  • Meehan previously won a $38 million civil verdict that the state is trying to cap at $475,000, and Woodlock faces two additional criminal trials scheduled for 2026 as other YDC cases continue with mixed outcomes.