Jury Deadlocks in Boston Rape Trial of Dublin Firefighter

A Boston jury failed to reach a verdict in the case of a Dublin firefighter, Terence Crosbie, accused of raping a US woman during the St. Patrick’s Day weekend last year. The mistrial now sets the stage for a second trial in October, with the judge increasing bail due to Crosbie’s flight risk.

Mistrial Declared After Deliberations

After a five-day trial, the jury deliberated for over 22 hours across four days without reaching a consensus. The judge, Sarah Ellis, declared a mistrial Friday afternoon. Crosbie’s bail was increased from $10,000 to $50,000.

“I declare that this jury is deadlocked and I declare a mistrial.”

—Judge Ellis

Crosbie, 38, was accused of assaulting a 29-year-old attorney in a Boston hotel room while his colleague, Liam O’Brien, slept. The alleged incident occurred at the Omni Parker House hotel. The woman testified that she awoke to find a man she did not know raping her.

The Prosecution’s Arguments

Prosecutors presented CCTV footage showing Crosbie entering the hotel room and the woman leaving shortly after. They argued that her account was supported by evidence. According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted (RAINN).

Defense Rebuttals and Testimony

The defense contested the DNA evidence and questioned the woman’s memory, citing her potential inebriation and use of psychiatric medications. Crosbie maintained his innocence throughout the trial, stating he “didn’t touch” the woman and had no physical contact.

St. Patrick’s Day Incident

Crosbie was one of several Dublin Fire Brigade members in Boston for the St. Patrick’s Day parade. The woman had met O’Brien at a bar and went back to the hotel with him. She alleged that her assailant made disparaging remarks about O’Brien during the assault.

The next trial for Crosbie is scheduled for October 14th. The case remains unresolved, and the legal proceedings continue.