NJ man arrested in Weehawken in connection with rapes in Boston 15 years ago

BOSTON (AP) — Investigators used advanced DNA technology to identify a suspect in a series of sexual assaults in Boston that took place about 15 years ago, law enforcement officials said.

Matthew J. Nilo, 35, was arrested in Weehawken, New Jersey, on Tuesday, Joseph Bonavolonta, head of the FBI's Boston office, said at a news conference at Boston Police headquarters.

Four victims were informed of the arrest, he said.

“We certainly realized that identifying this individual does not ease their pain. Nothing can, but hopefully it answers some questions,” he said.

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Nilo is charged with three counts of aggravated rape, two counts of kidnapping, one count of assault with attempt to rape and one count of indecent assault and battery in connection with the assaults in Boston's Charlestown neighborhood in 2007 and 2008. Nilo lived in Boston at the time, authorities said.

It could not immediately be determined if he had a lawyer. Listed phone numbers were either not in service or went unanswered. It was unclear when he will be arraigned.

Nilo was identified as a suspect with the help of forensic genetic genealogy, which combines DNA analysis with publicly accessible genealogy research and historical records, authorities said.

“This arrest also highlights the fact that investigators never stop analyzing evidence, collecting information and running down leads in order to bring dangerous offenders to justice,” Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden said at the news conference.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: NJ man arrested in Weehawken on Boston sex assault charges