1. Charges dismissed in rape case
2. Pending trafficking case charges held.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : A Chester resident facing allegations of sexual offenses and abuse against two women with intellectual disabilities has been held over for court on most charges related to one of the victims, while charges against a co-defendant have been dismissed. Both individuals are set for arraignment this week on new charges.
The preliminary hearing for Michael and Nicole Swanson was held before Magisterial District Judge Andrew Goldberg on May 16, but the press and public were not allowed to attend due to the sensitive nature of the case. Defense attorney Heather Mattes, representing Nicole Swanson, later stated that one of the alleged victims had exonerated her client.
Nicole Swanson’s ex-husband, Michael, was held for court on charges including rape of a mentally disabled person, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, and indecent assault. However, some charges, including kidnapping and conspiracy, were dismissed. Assistant District Attorney Bryan Barth has refiled charges against Nicole Swanson, including rape and related conspiracy counts. Michael Swanson also faces refiled charges of rape and indecent assault.
The original charges against Michael Swanson stem from his alleged treatment of victims identified as “N.M.” and “L.D.” Nicole Swanson had only been charged in connection with N.M. The hearing focused on N.M., with Michael Swanson still facing charges related to L.D.
According to affidavits, the victims met Michael Swanson through mutual connections. Psychological assessments revealed that both victims had intellectual disabilities and were not legally able to consent to sexual conduct. L.D. had been in a relationship with Michael Swanson, who persuaded her to move in with him and Nicole. Eventually, N.M. was also brought into the situation.
The Swansons and the victims lived together in Chester before relocating to Florida to avoid scrutiny by social services. There, the abuse continued, with N.M. being physically assaulted and L.D. coerced into performing sexual acts. Both victims have since been relocated to different states.
Michael Swanson remains in custody pending bail, while Nicole Swanson has been released. Both are scheduled for arraignment on new charges. The case has garnered significant attention due to the disturbing nature of the allegations..
1. Charges held dismissed pending rape trafficking case
2. Rape trafficking case charges held dismissed pending.
