News  Berkshire District Attorney’s Office Obtains Guilty Verdict In Domestic Violence Trial

PITTSFIELD — The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office obtained a guilty verdict and prison sentence in a Superior Court domestic violence trial.

On Tuesday, a Berkshire Superior Court jury found 41-year-old Jason Ostrander guilty of intimidation of a witness following a two-day trial. Judge Jane Mulqueen agreed with the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office sentencing recommendation that Ostrander serve three to four years in state prison. Defense Counsel requested time served and probation.

On May 2, 2020, Pittsfield Police responded to a Pittsfield address for a reported domestic disturbance. Police arrested Ostrander for strangulation. While detained pretrial, Ostrander sent the victim a letter urging the victim not to testify in court against him. The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office obtained that letter and took the case to trial despite the witness’ resistance to participating in the court process. 

“Victims of intimate partner violence are often understandably afraid to participate in prosecutions, and offenders can be very manipulative. I am proud of the trial team for continuing to pursue this case,” District Attorney Andrea Harrington said.

“I thank the jury for their deliberations and I thank the Pittsfield Police Department for swiftly bringing Mr. Ostrander into custody that evening.”

The jury found Ostrander not guilty of the strangulation charge.

Berkshire District Attorney Andrea Harrington’s office serves all 32 cities and towns in Berkshire County. The office represents the Commonwealth in more than 7,500 criminal cases per year in Berkshire Superior Court, three district courts, three juvenile courts, Massachusetts Appeals Court, and Supreme Judicial Court. The office works closely with the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office, the Berkshire Law Enforcement Task Force, and collaborates with local police departments across the county. A dedicated staff of more than 50 prioritizes public safety, empowering victims and witnesses through services and support, and building a safe community for everyone and especially the most vulnerable.