Nashua NH Man Charged In Peabody Rape At Knifepoint 34 Years Ago: Essex DA

PEABODY, MA — A Nashua, NH man accused of lying in wait for a Peabody woman in her home 34 years ago, then blindfolding her and raping her at knifepoint when she returned from her morning job, was arraigned on charges from the Nov. 12, 1991 attack in Essex County Superior Court on Monday.

The Essex County District Attorney's Office said Darrell Lavoie, 59, was arraigned on charges of aggravated rape, rape, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and breaking and entering.

Assistant District Attorney Jessica Strasnick told the court: "The victim has been looking over her shoulder for 34 years," without knowing "who brutally raped her in her own home."

The Essex DA's Office said, earlier this year, members of the Massachusetts State Police Unresolved Case Unit began re-investigating the case and analyzing previously collected evidence.

Judge Thomas Drechsler set bail at $100,000 with conditions that the defendant have no contact and stay away from the victim and witnesses in the case, while also remaining in Massachusetts.

Lovie's attorney, Patrick Hakes, had requested a $7,500 bail.

Lavoie is due to return to court for a filing of motions hearing on Jan. 9.