Closing Arguments Coming In Trial Of Man Accused Of Framingham Rapes

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Closing arguments are expected Monday in the trial of Stephen Paul Gale, the man accused of raping two women at gunpoint in a Framingham clothing store 36 years ago.

Gale, now 72, pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated rape, kidnapping and armed robbery. His trial began March 3 at Middlesex County Superior Court in Woburn.

Prosecutors made their case over seven days, claiming Gale entered the now-defunct store on Dec. 27, 1989, and forced the two employees into separate back rooms. He then raped each one, stole cash from the store and escaped, the allegations said.

The case was cold for decades – until investigators using DNA information identified Gale as a suspect and arrested him in Los Angeles two years ago.

Gale’s defense attorneys have not called any witnesses, and Judge Patrick Haggan on Friday reviewed instructions to the jury, according to reports.

Monday’s court session was scheduled to begin at 9 a.m.