In a dramatic development in a long‑standing investigation, New Jersey lawyer Matthew Nilo has now been indicted on seven additional charges, linking him via DNA evidence to five more sexual assaults. Previously, Nilo faced charges of sexually assaulting four women in Boston, with forensic evidence—specifically DNA found on a drinking glass—playing a key role in his initial indictment. As the investigation expanded, new accusations emerged that implicated him in additional attacks during the same period.
Expanding the Scope of Accusations
According to a recent statement by Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden, Matthew Nilo has been charged in connection with five additional attacks that took place in Boston’s North End between January 2007 and July 2008. These new charges bring fresh focus on a series of incidents in which the victims, all walking alone in the dark during early mornings or late at night, fell prey to Nilo’s predatory actions. One victim was even targeted twice within an 11‑day span, illustrating the persistent nature of his assaults.
District Attorney Hayden emphasized the significance of these developments:
“This case demonstrates that no attack will go uninvestigated, no suspect will go unpursued, and no amount of time will insulate a criminal from a crime.”
DNA Evidence Links Nilo to Previous and New Attacks
The breakthrough in linking Nilo to the assaults came when forensic investigators analyzed a drinking glass used by him during a corporate function earlier this year. DNA extracted from the glass matched genetic material found on evidence from the initial sexual assaults in Boston. Although this evidence had already implicated Nilo in the original four attacks, it now connects him to additional incidents, expanding the scope of his criminal activity.
Nilo, 35, from Weehawken, New Jersey, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including aggravated rape, kidnapping, assault with intent to rape, and indecent assault and battery. His defense attorney, Cataldo, has questioned the legality of obtaining DNA without a warrant, but the mounting forensic evidence has significantly strengthened the case against him.
The Expanded Charges
With the newly filed indictments, Matthew Nilo now faces the following charges:
- One count of rape
- One count of aggravated rape
- Three counts of assault with intent to rape
- Two counts of indecent assault and battery
These charges relate to additional attacks on four women in Boston’s North End that occurred between January 2007 and July 2008, a period when Nilo was reportedly residing in Boston. The additional charges underscore the breadth of his alleged criminal behavior during that time and highlight the critical role of DNA evidence in unraveling these long‑unsolved cases.
Investigation and Upcoming Court Appearance
The investigation, now spanning multiple jurisdictions, has involved collaboration between law enforcement agencies in Kansas, Missouri, and Massachusetts. As new evidence emerged, the forensic team worked diligently to piece together the sequence of events that linked Nilo to these heinous crimes. The case is drawing significant attention due to the advanced forensic techniques employed and the expanding scope of charges.
Following his release on bail earlier this month, Matthew Nilo is scheduled to appear in court on July 13 to address the new charges. This upcoming court appearance is expected to be a critical juncture in the case, as further evidence will likely be presented to solidify the connection between Nilo and the additional assaults.
Conclusion
The indictment of Matthew Nilo on seven additional charges marks a pivotal moment in a case that has already seen significant forensic breakthroughs. DNA evidence, which initially implicated him in the sexual assault of four women in Boston, has now expanded the list of his alleged crimes, connecting him to five more attacks in Boston’s North End. This development not only deepens the investigation but also reinforces the crucial role that advanced forensic techniques play in solving cold cases and ensuring that no attack goes unpunished.
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As the legal process unfolds, the strength of the forensic evidence will be key to securing a conviction. With an upcoming court appearance on July 13, all eyes will be on how the case develops and whether justice can finally be fully served for the victims. The relentless pursuit of truth by law enforcement, combined with cutting-edge DNA analysis, stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of forensic science in the fight against sexual assault and other heinous crimes.
