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Opening Statements Begin in Trial of Stephen Paul Gale Over 1989 Framingham Rapes

Key rulings permit statistical DNA evidence plus 1989 photographs.

Overview

  • Attorneys opened the case before a 16-person jury in Middlesex Superior Court, with evidence expected through March 20.
  • Stephen Paul Gale has pleaded not guilty to four counts of aggravated rape, two counts of kidnapping and one count of armed robbery.
  • DNA collected in 1989 was reanalyzed using forensic genetic genealogy, producing a 2024 identification that led to Gale’s indictment.
  • Judge Patrick Haggan ruled that jurors may hear the statistical strength of the DNA match and see photographs of the victims from 1989.
  • Prosecutors plan testimony from roughly 50 witnesses, including the two survivors who pushed for renewed testing, and Gale has waived a statute-of-limitations defense.