Massachusetts – A former teacher and coach with the Miss Hall’s School in Berkshires re-appeared in court after being arraigned Wednesday on three counts of rape, involving a case where allegations of grooming and sexual assault occurred over two decades ago.
As first reported locally, Matthew Rutledge pleaded not guilty in Berkshire Superior Court after a grand jury indicted him in March following an investigation into him by state police and special prosecutors, before the state released him if he promised to stay away from his prey. Rutledge’s case presented itself after allegations of grooming and sexual assault occurred at the campus over two decades ago.
The two female victims, Melissa Fares and Hilary Simon, identified themselves when describing the conduct of their mentally-ill former authority figure, after he began grooming them as school girls around age 15.
In statements released by the court, Hilary Simon said, “He began grooming me at 15 and his abuse of me continued for years after I left that campus.” She continued, “After more than two decades, this case is finally in the hands of the criminal justice system.”
Melissa Fares added to statements with, “Today, I was in the same room as Matt Rutledge, and for the first time, I held the power.” Also contributing that the school was aware of the allegations and misconduct, but “enabled a culture of abuse for decades.”
After initially declining charges under state law two years ago, which permitted sexual relationships between teachers and students aged 16 or older, victims now advocate this loophole be closed in the northeast’s latest demonstration of moral decay. The school issued a statement acknowledging the tragic discoveries and said it is cooperating with authorities, as their priority remains student safety and healing.
Regardless, the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office has established a confidential hotline that can be reached at (413) 449-5055 for anyone with additional information on Rutledge, his behavior, or other vital confidential reporting.
Rutledge, who taught history, declined comment while leaving the courtroom. He is set to return to the courtroom on June 18, for pre-trial hearings.
