VSP News Release-Incident
STATE OF VERMONT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
VERMONT STATE POLICE
NEWS RELEASE
CASE#: 26B4006084
RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Bruce Cleaver
STATION: Rutland Barracks
CONTACT#: (802) 773-9101
DATE/TIME: August 8th at approximately 1043hours
INCIDENT LOCATION: Lewis Rd, Poultney, VT
VIOLATION: Animal Cruelty
ACCUSED: David Nilsen
AGE: 70
CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Poultney, VT
SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:
On August 8, 2026, at approximately 1043 hours, Troopers from the Vermont State Police – Rutland Barracks responded to the report of a dog that had been shot on Lewis Rd in Poultney. Through investigation, it was determined that David Nilsen of Poultney, intentionally and without just cause shot the dog after it came onto his property, causing serious injuries. The dog was brought by his owner to a nearby Veterinarian Hospital and is in stable condition. Nilsen was issued a citation to appear before the Vermont Superior Court - Rutland Criminal Division on 09/21/26 to answer to the charge of Animal Cruelty.
COURT ACTION: Yes
COURT DATE/TIME: 09/21/26 at 1000 hours
COURT: Rutland County
LODGED - LOCATION: N/A
BAIL: N/A
MUGSHOT: N/A
*Please note: court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.
Trooper Bruce Cleaver
Vermont State Police
124 State Place
Rutland, VT 05701
Barracks: 802-773-9101
Email: Bruce.Cleaver@Vermont.Gov
