Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Massachusetts man charged in rape of houseguest

James Bresnahan, 48, was charged with two counts of rape after forcing a young woman into sexual activity early Saturday morning in Lynn, Massachusetts. The woman was staying with her boyfriend over at Bresnahan's apartment Friday night because they were homeless, and according to police, Bresnahan ordered the boyfriend out and forced the woman into a bedroom to rape her.

According to prosecutors, Bresnahan hald a pillow over the victim while she was being raped and told her, "Don't tell anybody or I'll kill you."

A public defense attorney sharply contested the alleged victim's accusations, saying both she and her boyfriend are known drug users who have a reputation for crime.

The attorney says Bresnahan has recently abstained from using alcohol and drugs and got upset with the couple after they began popping pills at his home.He said Bresnahan's sister was home during the alleged rape and didn't hear any commotion.

Bresnahan faces 20 years for the rape charge. He's a convicted criminal, with convitions of assault and battery on a police officer in 2004, and OUI. His next court appearance is May 20, and Bresnahan cannot have contact with his alleged victim.

No comments: