MANCHESTER — The New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office announced Wednesday that it has initiated a civil rights enforcement action against Lavaughn Barnett, alleging multiple violations of the state’s Civil Rights Act stemming from an August 8 assault involving his former partner.
According to Attorney General John M. Formella, the Civil Rights Unit filed a complaint against Barnett for five alleged incidents of unlawful force or violence.
The complaint details that Barnett went to the victim’s home, demanded to speak with her, and forcibly took her to his residence.
There, he reportedly assaulted her after she disclosed her bisexuality and intent to end their relationship.
The victim endured multiple injuries during the assault, including a broken right orbital bone, strangulation, and being hit with a metal bat.
A family member of Barnett’s interrupted the attack, during which Barnett referred to the victim as “a lesbian” before shutting the door.
Police reports indicate that upon their arrival, Barnett confessed to striking the victim because of her sexual orientation and repeatedly referenced her bisexuality while recounting the incident.
The Civil Rights Unit contends that Barnett’s actions were hate-motivated and interfered with the victim’s lawful activities.
Each count against Barnett could result in a maximum civil penalty of $5,000.
The Civil Rights Act also authorizes the court to prevent the defendant from further violations and hate-motivated conduct for up to three years.
The Unit has requested that the court issue a preliminary restraining order for the protection of the victim and the public.
The Civil Rights Unit is responsible for enforcing state civil rights laws, including the Civil Rights Act and the New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination.
Individuals who believe their civil rights have been breached can file a complaint online or by contacting the office directly.
