Dino Balanca, a 50-year-old man from Taunton, was sentenced to 6-10 years in state prison for rape and intimidation of a witness charges. The incident occurred on February 8, 2018, when Balanca offered a co-worker a ride home after drinks at a pub. The co-worker experienced memory loss after being given a drink she did not order, and later woke up outside with injuries. Balanca claimed the co-worker left on her own, but DNA evidence proved otherwise. Balanca provided conflicting statements to the police and testified in his own defense during the trial, stating that he and the co-worker had consensual sex. However, the jury convicted him of rape and lying to the police. District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III praised the victim’s perseverance and hoped the conviction would provide closure. Balanca’s sentence includes a probation period for the intimidation of a witness charge. The case was prosecuted by Second Assistant District Attorney Silvia Rudman and Assistant District Attorney Kalene Kobza. The victim, whose injuries were treated at Morton Hospital following the incident, had no memory of the event after being given a drink by Balanca. The conviction ensures that Balanca is held accountable for taking advantage of the victim, according to Quinn. The victim’s boyfriend found her outside with injuries and memory loss, leading to concerns about her safety. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking justice in cases of sexual assault.
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