WOONSOCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — A jury has convicted a man of first-degree murder in the brutal stabbing of an elderly Woonsocket woman nearly nine years ago. The body of 81-year-old Constance Gauthier was found inside her home in March 2016, with more than 60 stab wounds. Two years later, Matthew Dusseault, now 27, was indicted after prosecutors said his genetic profile matched touch DNA with mixed blood on Gauthier’s bedroom furniture. He pleaded not guilty, and the state is seeking life in prison without parole. After further deliberation, the jury also found that the state proved the murder involved both aggravated battery and torture. "Our family and friends are so very relieved that this day has finally come. "We've waited way too long," Sandy Lee Paul, Gauthier's niece, told 12 News. "Now my aunt Connie can finally rest in peace. God is good." BACKGROUND: Trial begins for suspect in 2016 Woonsocket murder The trial began last week, with the jury hearing testimony from Gauthier's physical therapist and officers who responded to the scene. During closing arguments, Dusseault’s defense attorney, Mark Smith, argued that unanswered questions remain in Gauthier’s death, urging jurors "not to force the puzzle pieces to fit together" for a conviction. Assistant Attorney General Scott Erickson countered by emphasizing the DNA evidence tying Dusseault to the crime, stating, "DNA doesn’t have any bias, and it doesn’t have any prejudice." MORE: Police take stand in Woonsocket murder trial Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News SIGN UP NOW