Naval Academy student testifies she was raped in dorm

Mid testifies she was raped in dorm
At a preliminary hearing in Washington, defendant's lawyer calls charges 'incredible'
By Josh Mitchell | Sun reporter
7:26 PM EDT, April 22, 2008

WASHINGTON - A Naval Academy student testified in a military courtroom Tuesday that a fellow midshipman entered her dormitory room after a night of drinking last fall and raped her. But the defendant's attorney called the charges "incredible," pointing out that there was no DNA evidence to support the charge.

The testimony was part of the first hearing for Mark A. Calvanico, 21, of Secaucus, N.J., a junior charged with rape, indecent assault, indecent acts and conduct unbecoming an officer.



Tuesday's Article 32 hearing at the Washington Navy Yard was held to determine whether Calvanico should face a court-martial. An Article 32 hearing is similar to a grand jury proceeding. The investigating officer will make a recommendation to Vice. Adm. Jeffrey Fowler, the academy superintendent, who will decide whether the case goes to trial.

The academy has been criticized for its response to alleged sexual assaults and harassment, and the school, in Annapolis, recently began requiring that midshipmen receive more training about sexual misconduct.
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