Security Official Charged with Rape in Martha’s Vineyard Incident

A security official from a prominent Boston school has been accused of raping a woman visiting from Ireland. This shocking development came to light after authorities found her, naked and in distress, by the roadside next to the Massachusetts State Police barracks on Martha’s Vineyard.

The accused, Edward Brown, a 27-year-old school security officer, was allegedly at the barracks to visit a college friend, who is a state trooper. During his arraignment, he pleaded not guilty to the charges stemming from an incident that reportedly occurred on August 15.

According to prosecutors, Brown met the victim at The Ritz, a bar in the upscale Oak Bluffs area, known for its celebrity residents, including former President Obama.

Police received two 911 calls around 1 a.m. that night and discovered the woman in a highly distressed state. She reported being approached by a man at the bar before losing consciousness.

In court, Assistant District Attorney Courtney Scalice provided a detailed account of the victim’s experiences. She recounted how the woman claimed a Black man in a white hat followed her around the bar. When she regained consciousness, she found herself naked and face down.

The woman described a harrowing struggle, stating that her assailant held her down while she kicked and screamed. After asking for water, she seized the opportunity to flee, running down two flights of stairs and outside, where she sought help.

Upon arrival, officers noted visible bruises on her legs and a red mark around her neck. Brown had been reportedly staying as a guest at the state police barracks for the summer and was identified through a photograph from a bouncer at The Ritz, who knew he was connected to the troopers.

After the bouncer shared the photo, police sent it to the trooper, Ryan Costello, who recognized Brown as a college friend. Investigators later received texts between Brown and Costello, including a message where Brown reportedly inquired if it was acceptable to bring a female friend to the barracks.

In the messages, he mentioned searching for condoms and seemed casual about the situation. Brown allegedly did not give consistent accounts regarding the woman, first denying any presence, then saying she left voluntarily.

As the investigation unfolded, detectives accessed Brown’s Uber account and found a ride he took shortly before the emergency calls. The Uber driver confirmed picking up a young White woman who appeared intoxicated, alongside a Black male fitting Brown’s description.

In addition to the charges at hand, records reveal that Brown has been the subject of prior police reports made by two ex-girlfriends, alleging harassment. These incidents reportedly occurred between March and August of that year.

The victim, who has since returned to Ireland, provided DNA samples that matched those found at the crime scene. Brown was arrested on October 9 at Boston Latin Academy, where he worked. During the arrest, authorities allegedly discovered suspected cocaine in his wallet.

In a statement, the Oak Bluffs Police Chief clarified that the Massachusetts State Police had no role in their investigation. The barracks were searched for evidence, but the woman’s clothing and phone were not recovered.

Brown, now facing serious charges, has been released on a $10,000 cash bail after a judge ordered him to stay away from the victim and any witnesses. He is set to appear in court again on December 11. His defense attorney, Anthony Ellison, maintains that Brown has faith in the legal process and is prepared to contest the allegations vigorously. If convicted, Brown could face up to 20 years in prison and would be required to register as a sex offender.