Ballensky trial starts in Butte, stands accused of raping girl

Prosecutors asked jurors on Monday to listen to testimony this week then find a 60-year-old man guilty of raping one young girl in Butte and sexually assaulting another.

Gordon Duane Ballensky, left, listens to the judge on the first day of Ballensky’s trial on rape and sexual assault charges on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024. To his right is Christopher White, one of the public defenders representing Ballensky.

MIKE SMITH

An attorney for the defendant, Gordon Duane Ballensky, said the entire case against him is based on statements from the accusers and their stories are full of inconsistencies. Ballensky has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty.

“In this case, it’s going to be emotional,” public defender Shelby Danna told jurors. “I have no doubt there are going to be moments that pull on your heartstrings … but throughout this trial I want you to remember that just because the government has presented you with an emotional and upsetting story does not make that story true.”

Gordon Duane Ballensky,

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