CONCORD — A man who previously lived among Concord’s unhoused community was arrested last month after an investigation into an alleged sexual assault at the Concord Gardens apartment complex in late January 2025, police said.
Arrest and charge
Police arrested James Martin, 36, on July 22 and charged him with a single felony count of aggravated felonious sexual assault, according to a Concord Police Department report. Martin is now homeless and living in White River Junction, Vermont, the report states.
How investigators say the incident unfolded
According to the police affidavit, the victim — a woman in her early 20s — told investigators the events began Jan. 27, 2025, after she returned home to the Concord Gardens apartment complex. The woman had been picked up from the hospital by a relative earlier that day to obtain treatment for an infection, but the plan to get antibiotics from a pharmacy fell through because the store was closed.
When she returned to the residence, several people were present. A man who identified himself as "James" told others he had nowhere to go and that it was cold outside. The victim said a family member vouched for him, and she agreed to let him sleep on a couch, the affidavit says.
Witnesses told police Martin initially had been there to provide tattoo services to a roommate but could not work because required equipment was unavailable. The group reportedly watched a movie together. After other people left, the victim said she covered Martin with a blanket and went to sleep in her bedroom.
"She woke up to Martin on top of her, covering her mouth, and raping her," the affidavit states. The victim also reported hearing him say she was going to be "his next wife" and that she would have his children.
The victim told investigators the assault lasted a couple of hours before Martin fell asleep. She waited until she believed he was asleep, then left her bedroom and sought help. She was interviewed by Concord police and the Merrimack County Advocacy Center in early February 2025, launching the investigation that led to the July arrest.
Investigation and support for the victim
Concord police began their investigation soon after the victim reported the attack. The Merrimack County Advocacy Center was involved in the early interview process, according to the report. No additional charges or prosecutorial actions were detailed in the police release beyond the single felony count filed against Martin.
Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan. 27, 2025 | Alleged assault at Concord Gardens apartment complex |
| Early Feb. 2025 | Victim interviewed by Concord police and Merrimack County Advocacy Center |
| July 22, 2026 | James Martin arrested on felony charge |
Community context and safety note
The arrest sheds light on intersections between housing insecurity and violent crime in the community. The affidavit notes Martin had been connected to Concord’s unhoused population prior to the alleged assault. The case underscores concerns about safety and the vulnerability of people who allow a stranger into their home, as well as the broader challenge of addressing homelessness in the region.
Officials did not provide additional information about Martin’s prior history, bail, or court proceedings in the materials released with the arrest notice. The identity of the victim is being withheld because of her age and the nature of the allegation.
Resources and next steps
The Merrimack County Advocacy Center assisted in the initial response to the victim. Residents seeking support after sexual assault can contact local advocacy groups and law enforcement. In emergencies, call 911. For nonemergency information and available services, the Merrimack County Advocacy Center and Concord Police Department are primary local resources.
- Victim interview and advocacy: Merrimack County Advocacy Center
- Law enforcement contact: Concord Police Department
- Emergency assistance: 911
The investigation that produced the arrest remains with Concord police and prosecutors; further court dates or filings have not been included in the police release.
This report will be updated as additional information, filings or court proceedings become available.
