Second Former YDC Worker Found Guilty in Abuse Investigation

Hillsborough County: A jury found Stanley Watson guilty of sexually assaulting two teenage boys while he worked at the Youth Development Center in the 1990s. This was a big deal, as he’s the second former worker to be convicted in this ongoing investigation.

Watson, who’s 55 and from Allenstown, was found guilty on three counts of aggravated felonious sexual assault. The incidents happened between April 1997 and January 1998. He’s set to be sentenced on February 6.

The trial lasted three days, and the jury took their time deliberating before reaching a verdict. Attorney General John M. Formella expressed gratitude for the jury’s work, emphasizing that this conviction is a significant step toward justice for all YDC victims.

In November, another former worker, Bradley Asbury, was also found guilty of similar charges and is awaiting sentencing on January 27. During the trial, prosecutors showed evidence of Watson’s assaults on two boys, one from Stark House and the other from Spaulding Cottage.

Prosecutor Nicholas Chong Yen pointed out that the very person meant to protect these boys became their predator. Watson, then 27, had given the boys gifts and special privileges, making him seem like the only adult who cared in a tough environment.

Watson admitted to having sex with both boys after they turned 17, claiming it was consensual. His defense attorney suggested the victims were motivated by financial gain, as they are part of lawsuits against the state for damages. Over 1,300 individuals have filed similar lawsuits alleging abuse at YDC, with some settling while others continue to fight in court.