iBerkshires – July 30, 2023

Pittsfield >> Matthew Martin, a resident of Pittsfield, was found not guilty of domestic assault and battery by a jury of 6 following his 2-day trial in the Central Berkshire District Court.

The charges stem from a January 10, 2023 arrest of Martin at the residence of his long-time girlfriend. Pittsfield Police received a 911 call from the residence where they could hear arguing in the background. When they arrived, they found the alleged victim covered in blood and lying in the kitchen which was in disarray. Martin was later located by police hiding in the attic where photographs of his bloody hands were taken by police. The alleged victim at first refused to tell police as to what occurred. In subsequent statements, she revealed that Martin assaulted her.

At trial, she stated that an argument ensued after the couple began arguing over their relationship and that Martin slammed her on the ground face-first. She further testified that her injuries, a broken nose and a black eye occurred by her head striking the kitchen floor. Later she obtained a restraining order from the court because she was in fear of Martin.

Martin did not testify at trial and his lawyer argued that the alleged victim could not be believed because she made contradictory statements to police as to what occurred. Martin was represented by Attorney Marc C. Vincelette. If convicted, Martin faced up to two and a half years in jail.