Boston Police Officer, Downey, appeared in court remotely from Norfolk County jail, presenting a stark figure in a dark green jumpsuit.
During a bail review hearing, Judge Belezos expressed concerns over the implications of the charges against Downey, stating, “any hint of that is going to be a problem.”
Downey has pleaded not guilty to a series of serious allegations, including four counts of aggravated rape of a minor, two counts of paying for sex with a child under 18, and two counts of enticement, following his arraignment on June 30 at Dorchester Municipal Court.
Initially, his bail was set at $250,000, a point of contention for his defense attorney, Kelli Porges.
Porges argued that the high bail amount amounted to “grandstanding” due to Downey’s status as a police officer, noting that others facing similar charges have received lower bail.
She emphasized that there is no evidence indicating that her client wielded his position of authority or any weapon during the alleged offenses.
While expressing sympathy for the juvenile involved, Porges challenged the severity of the bail, stating, “Bail is not a punishment.”
Porges also raised questions regarding whether Downey was aware of the boy’s age at the time of the incidents, claiming this remained a “triable issue.”
In contrast, Assistant Suffolk District Attorney, Brandon DeAvilla, underscored the strength of the prosecution’s case against Downey.
DeAvilla revealed that significant mandatory minimum sentences await Downey, particularly concerning the aggravated rape charges, which carry minimum terms of ten years.
He insisted that the evidence collected strongly supports the claims against the officer, noting that it includes the juvenile’s testimony and digital communication records.
Prosecutors presented Snapchat messages that allegedly show Downey conversing with the boy, alongside surveillance footage that captures Downey’s vehicle during the second encounter.
According to DeAvilla, text messages from the juvenile indicated a clear sequence of events concerning the arranged meetings with Downey, including a message asserting he had been paid for the second offense.
Additionally, a thorough search of Downey’s vehicle yielded evidence supporting the prosecution.
DeAvilla highlighted the juvenile’s described experience during the alleged assault, mentioning physical evidence found in the vehicle that supports the accuser’s claims.
As the proceedings continue, Downey remains on paid administrative leave, set to transition to unpaid leave after his indictment as dictated by department protocol.
With a career as a Boston police officer dating back to 1991, Downey now faces a pivotal moment in his professional and personal life, with upcoming hearings scheduled to continue unfolding these serious allegations against him.
The next hearing in Downey’s case is set for July 29.
As this case develops, public attention remains focused on the implications of the charges against Downey, with the Commonwealth poised to present a compelling argument against him in the upcoming months.
image source from：bostonglobe
