MERRIMAC, Mass. — NOTE: This story contains details of sexual assault that may be upsetting to some people. Reader discretion is advised.
A Merrimac man accused of brutally raping a 74-year old woman has been found dangerous and ordered held without bail.
Judge Peter Doyle ordered William Raia, 50, held without bail after a dangerousness hearing in Newburyport District Court.
[ Search for suspect after home invasion, woman assaulted in Merrimac ]
Raia, 50, pleaded not guilty on July 20 to 4 counts of Aggravated Rape, Kidnapping, Home Invasion, Strangulation and Assault & Battery causing bodily Injury on an elderly person.
Prosecutors say that on July 3, Raia, who lives within walking distance of the victim, slit a screen and went into her house through a window. He physically and sexually assaulted her for several hours until she was able to flee to a neighbor’s house and call police.
A status hearing via zoom is scheduled for Aug. 19 at 10:30 a.m.
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