Woodburn’s Domestic Abuse Case Going Back to Supreme Court – NH Journal
Woodburn’s Domestic Abuse Case Going Back to Supreme Court NH Journal
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Democratic Senator Jeff Woodburn Faces Possible Third Trial on Assault Charges
Democratic Senator Jeff Woodburn (D-Whitefield) had aspirations of running for governor against incumbent Chris Sununu, but instead, he finds himself facing a possible third trial on charges of assaulting his former girlfriend. Woodburn, who was previously the Senate Minority Leader, is also preparing for another appeal before the New Hampshire Supreme Court. Last week, prosecutors filed a brief opposing the appeal and urging the justices to uphold the only convictions that still stand.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Goal 5: Gender Equality
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Woodburn was convicted in 2021 on two counts of criminal mischief, one count of domestic violence, and one count of simple assault. These convictions were a result of a series of incidents in which he allegedly assaulted the woman and destroyed her property. However, after appealing to the Supreme Court, the domestic violence and simple assault convictions were overturned due to Woodburn not being allowed to argue self-defense. The two criminal mischief convictions were upheld.
In the most recent trial last month, which took place in Coos Superior Court, the jury was unable to reach a verdict on the domestic violence and simple assault charges, resulting in a hung jury. Woodburn claimed self-defense, stating that he bit the woman and grabbed her in self-defense. He is now seeking a new trial on the criminal mischief counts, arguing that he did not receive a fair trial in 2021 because his original lawyer failed to separate those charges from the assault charges.
Background of the Case
- The woman, who is 17 years younger than Woodburn, worked as the Democratic Party chair for Coos County and played a role in getting Woodburn elected.
- Woodburn pursued a romantic relationship with her in 2015 while his marriage was falling apart.
- After getting engaged in 2017, Woodburn began publicizing their relationship to boost his political career.
- Woodburn instructed the woman to act like a “first lady” and not criticize him, as he hoped to become governor.
According to the state’s brief, the relationship between Woodburn and the woman was described as “volatile.” Woodburn would lose his temper, yell at her, and even kick the door off her clothes dryer during arguments. The woman did not report these incidents to the police because she felt responsible and did not want to get Woodburn in trouble.
The violence escalated in late 2017 when an intoxicated Woodburn bit the woman’s hand during an argument. A few days later, on Christmas Eve, Woodburn allegedly punched her in the stomach after verbally berating her. Woodburn left the house but returned shortly after, breaking in and continuing to yell at the woman.
The woman testified that she blamed herself for Woodburn’s outbursts and violence and was too scared to seek help, fearing retaliation from Woodburn who had connections with the local police officers. In June 2018, Woodburn assaulted the woman again during an argument, leaving bruises on her arm. They broke up soon after, and she contacted law enforcement.
Conclusion
Woodburn’s lawyer, Mark Sisti, has expressed his determination to vigorously defend his client. However, the state’s brief paints a disturbing picture of Woodburn as a controlling man with a drinking problem, causing fear and harm to his former girlfriend. As Woodburn awaits another trial and continues his legal battle, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Gender Equality, Reduced Inequalities, and Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions serve as important reminders of the need for fair and just treatment in cases of domestic violence and assault.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
The article discusses the domestic violence and assault charges against Democratic Sen. Jeff Woodburn, highlighting issues related to gender equality and the need for strong institutions to address such cases.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres
- SDG 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all
The article highlights incidents of domestic violence and assault against a woman, indicating a need to address violence against women (SDG 5.2) and ensure equal access to justice (SDG 16.3).
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Number of reported cases of domestic violence and assault against women
- Number of convictions and successful prosecutions in cases of domestic violence and assault
- Access to support services for victims of domestic violence
The article mentions incidents of domestic violence and assault, which can be used as indicators to measure progress towards addressing violence against women. The number of reported cases, convictions, and successful prosecutions can indicate progress in addressing the issue. Additionally, the availability and accessibility of support services for victims can also be used as an indicator.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres | – Number of reported cases of domestic violence and assault against women – Access to support services for victims of domestic violence |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all | – Number of convictions and successful prosecutions in cases of domestic violence and assault |
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Source: nhjournal.com
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