NORTHAMPTON, Mass. – A Florence man accused of child rape and related offenses was acquitted on all counts after a week-long trial at Hampshire Superior Court. Scott Duseau, 52, was embraced by his supporters and family members outside the court following the verdict. Duseau had been free on bail and conditions since his arrest in October 2022 on charges of rape and indecent assault and battery on a child under 14.
David Mintz, Duseau’s attorney, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating that Duseau’s life had been greatly affected by these charges and that he had lived in constant stress since his arrest. Duseau, a licensed practical nurse, had been working as an infection control specialist at Linda Manor Extended Care Facility in Leeds.
The jury, comprised of seven men and five women, deliberated for less than five hours before reaching their verdict. Mintz commended the jury for their engagement throughout the trial, stating that they came to the right decision. Assistant District Attorney Anne Yereniuk praised the alleged victim, a boy who was 5 or 6 at the time of the alleged offenses, for having the courage to come forward and testify.
During the trial, witnesses, including Duseau’s husband and friends, testified that the boy had a strong bond with Duseau. Mintz highlighted inconsistencies between the boy’s testimony and that of his mother, who also took the stand. Duseau himself testified that he had never engaged in any sexually inappropriate behavior with the child.
Yereniuk acknowledged the positive aspects of Duseau’s relationship with the boy but emphasized that he had “access and opportunity” to commit the offenses. She also pointed out inconsistencies in the testimony of defense witnesses and highlighted the boy’s consistency in his allegations.
Ultimately, the jury found Duseau not guilty on all counts. Following the verdict, Judge Edward McDonough thanked the jurors for their service and commended them for taking their responsibility seriously.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the need to carefully consider the evidence presented in court. The boy’s bravery in coming forward was acknowledged, and it is now up to the judicial system to ensure justice is served.