Attorney Samuel Nassetta Secures Not-Guilty Verdict for Ledyard Chiropractor

A New London Superior Court jury on Thursday acquitted Robert C. Barnett, 61, of Ledyard, clearing him of a felony cruelty allegation that his lawyer, Samuel Nassetta of Suisman Shapiro, said unfairly tarnished his reputation for years.

Barnett, who owns Barnett Chiropractic Center, was found not guilty after a three-day trial and less than a day of deliberations. Attorney Samuel Nassetta said the verdict restored Barnett’s good name.

The case stemmed from accusations made by Barnett’s former wife, identified in court as Paola J.C. She alleged he was controlling and subjected her to unusual punishments.

Nassetta argued the accusations were exaggerated and rooted in a failed marriage. He told jurors Barnett had paid off Paola’s debts in Peru, provided her health insurance, and supported her financially. According to testimony, she came to the U.S. in 2019, married Barnett in 2022, and filed for divorce a few months later.

The defense further pointed out that Paola initially praised Barnett as a caring partner when applying for a Green Card but later changed her account after their separation, seeking residency under the Violence Against Women Act using the same allegations.

Calling the trial “a relationship dispute turned criminal,” Nassetta said the matter should have been resolved in family court rather than through felony prosecution.

If convicted, Barnett faced up to five years in prison. He still faces a misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge connected to his 2022 arrest, when his ex-wife accused him of locking her out of their house. That case is scheduled for September 4, and Nassetta said he expects it will be resolved without going to trial.