Trial of ex-officer charged in police station rape underway

SALEM, Mass. – The trial of a former Massachusetts police officer charged with raping an intoxicated man in protective custody inside a police station closet has started.

The Salem News reports that jury selection in the trial of 57-year-old Brian Butler, who is married to Salem’s police chief, continued Wednesday.

Butler has pleaded not guilty to rape and indecent assault and battery. His lawyer says the encounter was consensual.

The alleged assault occurred Oct. 31, 2016, at the Salem police station and was reported several days later. Prosecutors say the man in his 20s, had been visiting the city for Halloween and told investigators he felt compelled to go along with Butler.

Butler resigned following his arrest. He is married to Salem police Chief Mary Butler, who has filed for divorce.

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Information from: The Salem (Mass.) News, http://www.salemnews.com