PITTSFIELD, Mass. — In a courtroom packed with former students of Miss Hall’s School, former teacher Matthew Rutledge pleaded his case on Thursday, requesting that a Berkshire Superior Court judge dismiss three rape charges filed against him.
Statute‑of‑limitations arguments
Two of the motions focus on the state’s 15‑year statute of limitations. The Commonwealth contended that Rutledge’s annual two‑month stays in Canada should pause the limitations clock, effectively shortening the period in which prosecutors could bring the case.
Rutledge’s defense countered that the law looks to where a person “usually” resides. Since he spent roughly 85 % of each year in Massachusetts, his attorneys argued the two months abroad do not count toward the limitations period.
Dispute over the first accusation
The third motion addresses when former student Melissa Fares first alleged the assault. Rutledge’s lawyers claim Fares did not make the accusation until March 2026, after the district attorney publicly announced insufficient evidence to proceed. The Commonwealth labeled that claim a falsehood.
“I have always maintained that this was not consensual. I have always given the facts and I will continue to give the facts,” said Hilary Simon, another former student, during the hearing.
Fares added, “I have waited over two decades for justice and we are willing to wait several more months. We want the court to take its time to apply the law and the facts, and to make the right decision here.”
Public reaction in the courtroom
As Rutledge exited the courtroom, several audience members shouted, “You cannot hide behind a bad law,” and “We will always know what you are.” The remarks underscored the strong emotions surrounding the case.
Next steps
The judge indicated a decision on the motions would be issued by January 4, with a follow‑up hearing scheduled for January 14.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about how statute‑of‑limitations rules intersect with alleged sexual misconduct, especially when the accused spends time out of state. It also reflects the broader community’s demand for accountability in historic abuse allegations.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
