News

Juror says the state owes victim of Saddleback abuse case full amount

Juror says the state owes victim of Saddleback abuse case full amount

FILE - A gavel rests on the bench inside a courtroom. On Thursday, April 4, 2024, the State Bar of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin association representing attorneys, agreed to change the definition of “diversity” to settle a federal lawsuit brought by a conservative law firm that argued its internship program unconstitutionally discriminates based on race. Photo: Associated Press/AP Photo/Brennan Linsley


MANCHESTER, N.H.- A juror from the Kristy Gesse sexual abuse case says they were shocked when were informed how the damages were to be paid to the victim.

Speaking with WMUR-TV the anonymous juror said the jury intended for Gesse receive the full $16 million in damages however under the verdict the state was only responsible for $4 million, leaving the remaining $12 million to be covered by Peter and Beverly Tsetsilas, the owners of the Saddleback retreat group, who both have since died.

As the juror said the group was surprised when they learned how the award was divided;

“Everybody was dumbfounded by the result because we weren’t in the courtroom when it was read. So, they all said, you know, that wasn’t enough. That’s not what we wanted. You know, that’s not what we agreed on. It’s wrong.”

Following the verdict Gesse has filed an appeal claiming that the state should pay the full amount and is even using the jurors’ statements to the media in her case.

In response the Department of Health of Human Services filed a cross-appeal saying that Gesse’s claims were filed too late, according to the state’s statute of limitations, which officials say could reduce the amount the state is required to pay.

Recent Headlines

2 days ago in Entertainment

‘Rent’ musical celebrates its 30th Broadway anniversary with a starry show: ‘No day but today’

Jordan Fisher was in middle school when he first heard it. He was at his first cast party, gathering with fellow performers around his drama teacher's piano after some community theater.

2 days ago in Entertainment, Music

Why big music stars like Harry Styles and Celine Dion are embracing residencies

For Harry Styles' dedicated audience, it is the can't-miss event of the year: Tens of thousands have descended on New York City's Madison Square Garden each night of his 30-date residency, rushing to catch the show before it concludes Halloween weekend.

3 days ago in Entertainment

Tom Cruise to receive life achievement award from the American Film Institute

Tom Cruise is being celebrated with a life achievement award from the American Film Institute, AFI's board of trustees said Wednesday The award will be handed out at a gala tribute in Los Angeles at the Dolby Theatre on April 24 next year.