BOSTON — Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins said her office will continue to prepare for trial against the Boston College student charged in connection with the suicide death of her boyfriend.
Her boyfriend Alexander Urtula’s died by suicide on the day he was set to graduate from Boston College. She is accused of being physically, verbally, and psychologically abusive toward Urtula during their 18-month relationship.
Authorities say the abuse became more frequent, more powerful, and more demeaning in the days and hours leading up to Urtula’s death.
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“The tragedy of this case with a young man on the cusp of his professional life is profound,’' said District Attorney Rollins. “My office will continue to be there providing access to services and treatment for the Urtula family. The legal process is long and complicated, particularly with the delays caused by the Global pandemic and the journey to a place where healing can begin is grueling. We intend to be there every step of the way.’'
In November 2019, You voluntarily returned to the United States from South Korea for her first court appearance where she pleaded not guilty.
During that court appearance, text messages she sent Urtula were read aloud in court.
On Thursday, Superior Court Judge Christine Roach denied You’s motion to dismiss manslaughter charges following a hearing in October.
The state argued that You could be prosecuted for manslaughter on two theories.
The judge denied the motion to dismiss on the theory of “manslaughter by commission,” finding that You’s words could have caused Urtula to take his own life. Roach allowed the motion to throw out the theory of “manslaughter by omission,” finding that You’s failure to call for help was not the cause of Urtula’s suicide.
While both sides have the ability to appeal the decision, we will also continue to prepare for trial and fight any appeal the defense many make. We maintain that the evidence shows that Ms. You’s physical, verbal, and psychological abuse towards Mr. Urtula during their 18-month long tempestuous relationship – abuse which became more pronounced, powerful and demeaning in the days and hours leading up to Mr. Urtula’s death, were a cause for his suicide. A Suffolk County grand jury agreed and a Superior Court Judge has allowed the prosecution to proceed,
— Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins
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This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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