The YDC Claims and Settlement Fund is excited to announce the appointment of former Superior Court Judge Diane Nicolosi as its new assistant hearing administrator, starting this month. Nicolosi will support the Fund’s efforts in managing the growing volume of claims submitted by individuals who allege they were sexually or physically abused while in state custody at designated YDC facilities.

John T. Broderick Jr., who previously served as Chief Justice of the New Hampshire Supreme Court, has been leading the Claims Fund as its administrator since October 2022. Broderick supervises the Fund’s operations, conducts claimant hearings, and makes award decisions based on a statutory formula and legislative guidelines. With nearly 600 claims already received and more expected before the filing deadline of June 30, 2025, Broderick sought additional funding from the Legislature’s Joint Fiscal Committee to expand the hearing capacity. This request, aimed at maintaining a timely and thorough review process, was approved unanimously on July 10, 2024.

Established in January 2023, the Claims Fund offers a structured process for claimants. Initially, claimants have the option to resolve their claims directly with the Attorney General’s office. If a settlement is not reached, they can appeal for a hearing conducted by the Claims Fund administrator, who provides a trauma-informed, victim-centered review.

Broderick expressed his enthusiasm about Nicolosi’s appointment: “Due to the volume of claims being requested, it was important for me to address each one in a timely and thoughtful way and to find someone experienced, bright, empathetic and respected to assist in the process. Judge Nicolosi joining our team has allowed me to satisfy all those criteria.” Broderick praised Nicolosi’s distinguished career as a Superior Court judge and her recent role as a senior status judge, highlighting her deep understanding of the claims process.

Attorney General Formella, while not involved in Nicolosi’s selection, endorsed her appointment: “Judge Nicolosi is an excellent choice to serve as assistant administrator, and I am grateful that she has stepped forward to serve in this important role,” he said. “Her addition to the administrator’s team will ensure that claims are processed in a timely, thoughtful and respectful manner.”