Connecticut woman with a disability sexually assaulted and impregnated by her stepfather.

A New Haven man has been arrested following allegations of sexual assault and the subsequent impregnation of his stepdaughter, a 23-year-old woman with intellectual disabilities. The arrest, announced by local officials, comes after an investigation initiated in January when the victim’s mother reported the assault to authorities.

The case unfolded after the victim began experiencing stomach pains, prompting a visit to the hospital. During this medical examination, it was discovered that the woman was pregnant. Tragically, she later suffered a miscarriage approximately six months into the pregnancy. Subsequently, detectives collected a sample of the fetal tissue for forensic analysis.

According to police reports, the fetal DNA sample was analyzed by the state forensic laboratory. Although initial comparisons through the FBI’s Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) did not produce a match, forensic scientists determined that the DNA profile was suitable for submission to Forensic Genetic Genealogy, an investigative method that merges DNA analysis with genealogical research to help build familial connections.

Collaborating with Othram, a Texas-based forensic genetic genealogy firm, investigators began comparing the isolated paternal DNA against profiles from individuals who volunteered their DNA to genealogy platforms such as 23andMe and Ancestry.com. This process led to the identification of a partial match, which enabled detectives to construct a family tree and narrow down potential suspects.

Armed with this information, investigators obtained a search warrant for the DNA of the suspect, who is the victim’s stepfather. The DNA comparison confirmed a match with the paternal DNA derived from the fetal tissue.

As a result of this thorough four-month investigation, the 49-year-old stepfather was taken into custody on Tuesday and faces charges related to sexual assault. He is currently being held on a bond set at 0,000. The case highlights the increasing role of advanced forensic techniques in sexual assault investigations, particularly in instances where traditional methods may not yield immediate results.

The ongoing investigation emphasizes the commitment of law enforcement to ensure justice in cases involving vulnerable individuals. The handling of such sensitive cases continues to prompt discussions about the need for protective measures and support systems for victims of sexual violence, particularly those with disabilities.