The trial of a former Massachusetts State Police trooper accused of domestic violence is underway at Lowell Superior Court.
Robert Sundberg, 48, is no longer a trooper, but was a 14-year veteran when the allegations first came out against him in April of 2016. Charges against him include rape, assault with intent to rape, assault and battery, strangulation, stalking and malicious destruction of a motor vehicle.
The alleged victim in the case is his former girlfriend, who was also a state trooper. She told police she endured years of verbal and physical abuse by the defendant, who she claims was fueled by alcohol.
She said Sundberg choked her multiple times in their Boxboro home and threatened her if she ever told anyone. She took the stand after opening statements Wednesday. Her testimony was not recorded in order to protect her identity.
Sundberg has maintained his innocence throughout the case. In the past, his attorney accused the alleged victim of making the story up because his client was about to break up with her.
It is unclear if the former trooper will take the stand in his own defense. If he is convicted, the rape charge carries a maximum of 20 years behind bars.
The Middlesex County District Attorney's Office said the trial is expected to last one to two weeks and will continue with more testimony on Thursday.
