A security official at a prestigious Boston school, Edward Brown, 27, faces serious charges. He’s accused of raping a woman visiting from Ireland. The incident allegedly occurred near the Massachusetts State Police barracks on Martha’s Vineyard.
Details of the Incident
Prosecutors presented these allegations in court. Brown reportedly attended the barracks as a guest of a college friend, a state trooper. The alleged attack happened on August 15 inside the barracks. Brown met the victim earlier at The Ritz, a bar in the nearby Oak Bluffs community.
“Edward Brown pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in court.”
Fox News reports Brown allegedly followed the victim at the bar. She later found herself naked and distressed on the roadside.
Investigation and Arrest
Police received 911 calls around 1 a.m. Witnesses found the woman, who described being attacked. Assistant District Attorney Courtney Scalice detailed the victim’s account of events. She described a man in a white hat who attacked her.
The police investigation identified Brown as a suspect. A bouncer at The Ritz aided the police by identifying a photo of the suspect. This led detectives to Brown with the help of a state trooper, Ryan Costello.
Detectives traced an Uber ride involving Brown and the victim to the barracks. The Uber driver vouched for transporting them. The driver described the victim as intoxicated, while Brown appeared sober.
Additional Allegations
Brown’s history raised further concerns. Former girlfriends had reported harassment involving Brown to the Boston police. This spanned several months from March to August.
Police arrested Brown at Boston Latin Academy in October. At his arraignment, he faced charges but pleaded not guilty.
Legal Proceedings
On October 13, Brown was released on $10,000 bail. The prosecution had sought $50,000. The court barred him from contacting the victim or witnesses.
“If convicted, Brown may receive a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and would register as a sex offender.”
Brown’s defense attorney, Anthony Ellison, stated that his client denies the allegations. The defense plans to contest the charges vigorously.
This case led to changes in police policy. No longer can guests stay at State Police housing on Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket.