Carroll v. Kartell

James P. Kartell appeals from two abuse prevention orders1 issued against him pursuant to G. L. c. 209A upon the complaint of Barbara D. Carroll. Finding insufficient evidence supporting the orders, we vacate both.

Facts. Kartell and Carroll met at an event at the Boston Museum of Science in early April of 1999. They had what Carroll later described as a “nice conversation,” and soon thereafter met for coffee with another couple at the Burlington Mall. At *84some point prior to their next meeting, Carroll disclosed to Kar-tell that she was divorcing an abusive husband.2

Two days later, on Easter…