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Commonwealth v. HarrisCommonwealth v. Harris

Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court
Jun 29, 1881
Reporters:
,
Before:
Morton
Morton, J.

In a prosecution for rape, the character of the woman for chastity is involved in the issue, and may be impeached by general evidence of her reputation, but particular instances of criminal connection with other persons than the defendant are inadmissible. 3 Greenl. Ev. § 214, and cases cited. Commonwealth v. Regan, 105 Mass. 593. Commonwealth v. O’Brien, 119 Mass. 342. In the case at bar, the defendant offered evidence to show, not the general character of the woman, but particular instances of un chastity with persons other than himself. The court rightly rejected the evidence.

Exceptions overruled.

Case Details

Case Name: Commonwealth v. Harris
Court Name: Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court
Date Published: Jun 29, 1881
Citations: 131 Mass. 336; 1881 Mass. LEXIS 250
Court Abbreviation: Mass.
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