Attorney General John M. Formella announces that the Hillsborough County Superior Court—Northern Judicial District has found that Lavaughn Barnett violated the New Hampshire Civil Rights Act. This ruling follows an evidentiary hearing regarding an incident that took place on August 8, 2023.
“This decision marks a critical step in ensuring that the rights of all New Hampshire residents are protected under the law. We are committed to upholding the New Hampshire Civil Rights Act, which guarantees that no individual should be subjected to violence or discrimination due to their personal identity,” said Attorney General Formella. “The court’s ruling reinforces our stance that hate-driven violence, motivated by prejudice, will not be tolerated in this state. We will continue to pursue justice for victims of such crimes and work to ensure a safe environment for every person in New Hampshire.”
The case arose when Mr. Barnett went to the victim’s home to speak about their recently ended romantic relationship. The victim agreed to go with him to avoid a public confrontation. However, Mr. Barnett then took the victim’s phone, refused to let her leave, and forcibly took her to his home against her will. Once there, Mr. Barnett demanded the victim enter his bedroom and locked the door. During a violent confrontation in the bedroom, the victim disclosed her bisexuality to Mr. Barnett in an attempt to stop him. In response, Mr. Barnett took a metal bat and smashed her phone. He then punched the victim in the head, stomped on her head, strangled her, and hit her ankle with the bat. Mr. Barnett told a family member who attempted to intervene that he was beating the victim because she was “a lesbian.” The violence continued as Mr. Barnett prevented the victim from leaving, and only stopped after his father intervened. After the victim was able to contact friends for help, they called the police. During questioning, Mr. Barnett admitted to hitting the victim after she disclosed her sexual orientation, and repeatedly referenced it during his conversation with police.
The Court determined that the Attorney General’s Office had proven by clear and convincing evidence that Mr. Barnett’s violent actions were motivated, in part, by the victim’s sexual orientation. The Court ruled that this conduct violated the New Hampshire Civil Rights Act.Under the Civil Rights Act, each violation carries a maximum civil penalty of $5,000, and the Court is empowered to issue a restraining order to prevent future violations. A hearing will be held on March 6, 2025, to determine the appropriate relief, including the civil penalty and possible injunctive measures.
The Civil Rights Unit enforces state civil rights laws, including the Civil Rights Act and the New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination. Anyone who believes their civil rights have been violated may file a complaint at https://www.doj.nh.gov/bureaus/civil-rights-unit or by calling 603-271-3650.
Original source can be found here.