The Vermont State Police disseminates news releases for significant criminal or public safety incidents and arrests. These releases are not intended to document every public contact or response to a call-for-service. If you have a question regarding an incident or case, please contact your local state police barracks or the public information officer. Please note news releases are available on this blog for at least 30 days following their public release. Releases are generally archived the second month after publication. Please contact the public information officer if you need access to one that is older.

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January 7, 2026

I89 SB mm61 Back Open

Mm61 passing lane on I89 in Waterbury is back open 
 

 

Re: Traffic Alert- Milton / Georgia Town Line on US Route 7

Roadway is back open, thank you.


From: Phillips, Jared W via DPS.VSPMedia <dps.vspmedia@list.vermont.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, January 7, 2026 4:42 PM
To: DPS - VSP Media <DPS.VSPMedia@list.vermont.gov>; DPS - Roadway Alert <DPS.RoadwayAlert@vermont.gov>; AOT - TMC <AOT.TMC@vermont.gov>
Subject: Traffic Alert- Milton / Georgia Town Line on US Route 7
 
EXTERNAL SENDER: Do not open attachments or click on links unless you recognize and trust the sender.
State of Vermont

Department of Public Safety

Vermont State Police

St. Albans Barracks

 

News Release – Highway / Traffic Notification


This is a courtesy notice on behalf of St. Albans Central Dispatch, for Milton Police.


Us Route 7 N in the Town of Milton near Box 209 (just north of Edgewater Terrace, and south of Equestrian Lane, next to the Georgia Town Line)  is fully shut down in the NB direction while crews work to remove a vehicle from a crash.


This incident is expected to last only about 15 or so minutes.  Please contact St. Albans Central Dispatch for details, and update on the re-opening of the roadway will be provided as appropriate.  

 

Motorists should expect delays in the area, or seek alternate routes.  Please drive carefully.



Jared Phillips

Emergency Communications Dispatcher I

Vermont State Police Williston PSAP

3294 St. George Rd Williston, VT 05495

Phone: 802-878-7111

PSAP Fax: 802-878-3173

Traffic Alert- Milton / Georgia Town Line on US Route 7

State of Vermont

Department of Public Safety

Vermont State Police

St. Albans Barracks

 

News Release – Highway / Traffic Notification


This is a courtesy notice on behalf of St. Albans Central Dispatch, for Milton Police.


Us Route 7 N in the Town of Milton near Box 209 (just north of Edgewater Terrace, and south of Equestrian Lane, next to the Georgia Town Line)  is fully shut down in the NB direction while crews work to remove a vehicle from a crash.


This incident is expected to last only about 15 or so minutes.  Please contact St. Albans Central Dispatch for details, and update on the re-opening of the roadway will be provided as appropriate.  

 

Motorists should expect delays in the area, or seek alternate routes.  Please drive carefully.



Jared Phillips

Emergency Communications Dispatcher I

Vermont State Police Williston PSAP

3294 St. George Rd Williston, VT 05495

Phone: 802-878-7111

PSAP Fax: 802-878-3173

Westminster Barracks / MV Crash

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH

 

CASE#: 26B1000192                                           

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Marie Beland

STATION: Vermont State Police – Westminster Barracks                              

CONTACT#: (802)722-4600x3

 

DATE/TIME: 01/07/2026 at approximately 0854 hours

STREET: Vermont Route 30

TOWN: Newfane

LANDMARK AND/OR CROSS STREETS: Depot Road

INTERSTATE MILE MARKER:

WEATHER: Snow/Sleet          

ROAD CONDITIONS: Slush/Ice/Snow covered

 

VEHICLE #1

OPERATOR: Julia O. Shaw

AGE: 49    

SEAT BELT? Yes

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Newfane, Vermont

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 2024

VEHICLE MAKE: Hyundai

VEHICLE MODEL: Santa Cruz

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #1: Totaled

INJURIES: Minor

HOSPITAL: N/A

 

VEHICLE #2

OPERATOR: Deborah L. Johnson

AGE: 68    

SEAT BELT? Yes

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Northfield, Massachusetts

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 2018

VEHICLE MAKE: Chevrolet

VEHICLE MODEL: Equinox

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #2: Totaled

INJURIES: Minor

HOSPITAL: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital

 

 

SUMMARY OF CRASH:

 

On 01/07/2026, at approximately 0854 hours, Vermont State Police responded to a reported two-vehicle crash at the intersection of VT-30 and Depot Road in the Town of Newfane, Vermont. Investigation revealed that a 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, traveling southbound on VT-30, lost control and struck a vehicle that was stopped at the stop sign on Depot Road. The vehicle that was struck was a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox owned by Adventure Limousine Inc. and was being operated as a school transportation vehicle. The Equinox was operated by Deborah L. Johnson, 68 of Northfield, Massachusetts. There was one student passenger on board at the time of the crash, who sustained no injuries. The Hyundai Santa Cruz was operated by Julia O. Shaw,  49, of Newfane, Vermont. Both operators and the passenger were wearing seatbelts and both vehicles sustained airbag deployment. Johnson sustained minor injuries and was transported to Brattleboro Memorial Hospital by Rescue Inc. Shaw was evaluated at the scene and declined transport. Dummerston Fire Department assisted on scene. The Hyundai Santa Cruz was towed from the scene by Marlboro Towing & Collision; the Chevrolet Equinox was towed from the scene by Rod’s Mobil. Road conditions at the time of the crash were snow/ice/slush covered and it was actively snowing. The speed of the Hyundai Santa Cruz was too great for the existing roadway conditions, which is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash. The crash remains under investigation.  

 

 

LODGED – LOCATION: N/A

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: N/A

COURT ACTION: N/A

COURT: N/A

COURT DATE/TIME: 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 Marie Beland

Vermont State Police

Westminster Barracks

1330 Westminster Heights Rd

Putney, Vermont 05346

Tel: (802)722-4600 x3

Email: marie.beland@vermont.gov

 

St. Johnsbury / Leaving the Scene of an Accident

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH

 

CASE#: 26A4000189                                              

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Jason Danielsen

STATION: St. Johnsbury                                          

CONTACT#: 802-748-3111

 

DATE/TIME: 1/7/2026 at approximately 0630 hours

STREET: Memorial Drive

TOWN: St. Johnsbury

LANDMARK AND/OR CROSS STREETS: Center Tower

WEATHER: Snowing

ROAD CONDITIONS: Snow covered

 

VEHICLE #1

OPERATOR: Connor Cassidy

AGE: 21    

SEAT BELT? No

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: St. Johnsbury

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 2005

VEHICLE MAKE: Honda

VEHICLE MODEL: Civic

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #1: Moderate

INJURIES: None

HOSPITAL: NA

 

VEHICLE #2

OPERATOR: Roxanne Truhart

AGE: 64      

SEAT BELT? Yes

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Concord, VT

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 2017

VEHICLE MAKE: Toyota

VEHICLE MODEL: 4-Runner

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #2: Moderate

INJURIES: None

HOSPITAL: NA

 

 

 

SUMMARY OF CRASH: On 1/7/2026, at approximately 0630 hours, Vermont Troopers were notified of a two vehicle crash on Memorial Drive near Center Tower in the town of St. Johnsbury, VT. Investigation revealed that a Connor Cassidy (21) pulled out of the Center Tower parking lot and did not yield to Roxanne Truhart, who was travelling north on Memorial Drive, causing the two vehicles to collide. After the collision, Cassidy fled the scene. Investigation concluded that Cassidy was the operator at the time of the crash. Cassidy was later located and issued a citation for Leaving the Scene of an Accident.

 

 

LODGED - LOCATION: NA        

BAIL: NA

MUG SHOT: No

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT: Caledonia Criminal Court

COURT DATE/TIME: 2/9/2026 at 0830 hours

 

*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.

 

 

Williston Barracks / Wrong-way driver crashes into VSP trooper

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

CASE#: 26A1000138

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Omar Bulle, Sgt. Derek Rolandini                         

STATION: Williston Barracks

CONTACT#: 802-878-7111

DATE/TIME: 1:36 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026

STREET: Interstate 89

TOWN: Colchester, VT

INTERSTATE MILE MARKER:  Exit 17

WEATHER: light snow

ROAD CONDITIONS: Snow, slush, and ice

VEHICLE #1

OPERATOR: Robert Anson

AGE: 61   

SEAT BELT? Yes

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Mechanicsville, VA

VIOLATION: DUI and Gross Negligent Operation

VEHICLE YEAR: 2021

VEHICLE MAKE: Chevrolet

VEHICLE MODEL: Silverado

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #1: Front driver’s side

INJURIES: None

HOSPITAL: UVMMC

 

VEHICLE #2

OPERATOR: Trooper Jae Farnum-Boylan

AGE:  28 

SEAT BELT? Yes

CITY, STATE: Berlin Barracks

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 2021

VEHICLE MAKE: Ford

VEHICLE MODEL: Explorer VSP cruiser

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #2: Front driver’s side

INJURIES: None

 

SUMMARY OF CRASH:

At about 1:36 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, VSP Williston received a report of a wrong-way driver on Interstate 89 in Williston.  Multiple reports confirmed a vehicle was traveling north in the southbound lane of travel.

 

The vehicle continued northbound in the southbound lanes, passing exits 13 through 16 while at times narrowly missing crashing into oncoming traffic. Trooper Jae Farnum-Boylan was traveling in the southbound lanes by Exit 17 in Milton, with emergency lights and siren fully activated.  As the vehicle approached it traveled straight toward the trooper.  The wrong-way vehicle, now traveling at slow speed, collided with the front driver’s side of the fully marked VSP cruiser.

The operator, identified as Robert Anson of Mechanicsville, Virginia, was removed from the vehicle and taken into custody. While in custody, Anson displayed signs of impairment. He was transported to the University of Vermont Medical Center by Colchester Rescue as a precaution. Neither Anson nor Trooper Farnum-Boylan was injured in the crash.

Anson was cited to appear 8:30 a.m. Feb. 19, 2026, in the Criminal Division of Vermont Superior Court in Burlington to answer charges of DUI and Gross Negligent Operation.

 

 

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A 

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: Not available

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT: Criminal Division, Vermont Superior Court, Burlington

COURT DATE/TIME:  8:30 a.m. Feb. 19, 2026

*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.

 

Shaftsbury Barracks / Crash - Serious Injury

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH

 

CASE#: 25B3000094                                               

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Michael Arel

STATION: Shaftsbury Barracks                          

CONTACT#: 802-442-5421

 

DATE/TIME: 01/07/26 at approximately 0554

STREET: Burrington Rd

TOWN: Pownal

LANDMARK AND/OR CROSS STREETS: US Route 7

INTERSTATE MILE MARKER: N/A

WEATHER: Snowing

ROAD CONDITIONS: Snow Covered

 

VEHICLE #1

OPERATOR: Unknown

AGE:         

SEAT BELT:

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE:

 

 

PASSENGER: Billie Jean Adams

AGE: 31

SEAT BELT: Y

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Pownal. VT

 

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 1994

VEHICLE MAKE: Toyota

VEHICLE MODEL: Camry

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #1: Totaled

INJURIES: Major  

HOSPITAL: SVMC

 

 

SUMMARY OF CRASH:

 

On 01/07/26 at approximately 0554 hours, the Vermont State Police-Shaftsbury Barracks was notified by State Dispatch of a single vehicle crash in the area of 824 Burrington Rd in the Town of Pownal, VT. It was reported that the passenger was trapped, and the operator was missing.

 

Upon arrival, Adams was extricated from the vehicle and sustained serious bodily injuries. Adams was then transported to SVMC for emergent care, then to the Albany Medical Center.

 

Early investigations show the 1994 Toyota Camry was traveling north on Burrington Road toward US Route 7 when it veered off the roadway and struck a tree head-on. At this time, the vehicle's operator is unknown.

 

VSP asks anyone with information, including businesses or people in the area who might have video of the roadway, to contact the Shaftsbury Barracks at 802-442-5421. Anonymous tips can be provided online at https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.

--

Trooper Michael Arel

Vermont State Police

“B” Troop – Shaftsbury

96 Airport Road

Shaftsbury, VT 05262

(802) 442-5421

 

 

Williston Barracks/Vehicle Break-ins

VSP News Release-Incident

STATE OF VERMONT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
VERMONT STATE POLICE

NEWS RELEASE
       
CASE#: 26A1000186/26A1000170
RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Tyler Silva                            
STATION: Williston                    
CONTACT#: 802-878-7111

DATE/TIME: January 6, 2026
INCIDENT LOCATION: Mt Philo Road, Charlotte, VT
VIOLATION: Petit Larceny, Unlawful Trespass

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On the morning of January 7, 2026, Troopers assigned to the Vermont State Police-Williston Barracks received numerous reports of vehicle break-ins/thefts in the Mt Philo area in the Town of Charlotte.

The Vermont State Police would like to urge the public to ensure that their vehicles are locked and valuable items are removed to prevent thefts.

Anyone who may have information regarding these incidents or security cameras in the area are asked to contact Trooper Silva of the Williston Barracks at 802-878-7111. Anonymous tips may also be submitted online at Submit a Tip | Vermont State Police or by texting keyword VTIPS to 274637 (CRIMES).


Tpr. Tyler Silva & K9 Axel

Vermont State Police

A Troop-Williston

3294 St. George Road

Williston, Vermont 05495

Tel: 802-878-7111



Westminster Barracks / VCOR

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B1000185

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Victor Elias                          

STATION: Westminster Barracks        

CONTACT#: (802) 722-4600

 

DATE/TIME: January 7, 2026 at 0007 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Old Depot Road, Putney, VT

VIOLATION: Violation of Conditions of Release

 

ACCUSED: Christopher Garland                                         

AGE: 43

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Putney, VT

 

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

 

On January 7, 2026, at approximately 0007 hours, the Vermont State Police received notification of a domestic dispute on Old Depot Road, in the Town of Putney, Windham County, Vermont. Through investigation, Troopers determined Christopher Garland (43), of Putney, Vermont, had knowingly violated court ordered Conditions of Release. Garland was issued a citation to appear before the Vermont Superior Court - Windham Criminal Division on January 7, 2026, at 1230 hours to answer to the charge of Violation of Conditions of Release.

 

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: January 7, 2026 at 1230 hours     

COURT: Vermont Superior Court - Windham Criminal Division

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: 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.

Derby Barracks / Simple Assault & Disorderly Conduct

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26A5000010

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME:  Sgt. Joshua Mikkola                           

STATION: Derby                

CONTACT#: 802-334-8881

 

DATE/TIME: 01/01/2026   1208 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: S. Pleasant St. Troy, VT

VIOLATION: Simple AssaultX3, Disorderly Conduct

 

ACCUSED: Ryan Bathalon                                               

AGE: 40

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Westfield, VT

 

VICTIM: Denis Bathalon

AGE: 68

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Newport Town, VT

 

VICTIM: Ethan Bathalon

AGE: 35

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Westfield, VT

 

VICTIM: Robert Bathalon

AGE: 66

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Westfield, VT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On 01/01/2026, at approximately 1208 hours, the Vermont State Police were advised of a male who was fighting other family members at a property on S. Pleasant Street in the Town of Troy, VT. Troopers responded and met with the complainant, witnesses and parties involved who reported Ryan Bathalon, 40, of Westfield VT was assaulting other family members and engaged in a violent, tumultuous, and threatening behavior. No major injuries were reported. Prior to law enforcement arrival, it was learned Ryan left the scene but was later located at his residence and taken into custody for the offenses of simple assault X3 and disorderly conduct. Ryan was transported to the Derby Barracks where he was processed and later released with a citation to appear in court.

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME:  01/27/2026   0830 hours          

COURT: Criminal Division, Vermont Superior Court, Newport

LODGED - LOCATION:  No   

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: INCLUDED

 

January 6, 2026

Rutland Barracks / DUI

STATE OF VERMONT 

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY 

VERMONT STATE POLICE 

NEWS RELEASE 

 CASE#: 26B4000102

RANK / TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Jakubowski                                  

STATION: Rutland                      

CONTACT#: (802) 773-9101 

 

DATE/TIME: January 6, 2026, at approximately 1932 hours 

INCIDENT LOCATION: Route 4, Mendon, VT 

VIOLATION: DUI 

 

ACCUSED: Aaron Grammer 

AGE: 42

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Williamstown, VT 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:  

On January 6, 2026, at approximately 1932 hours, Troopers from the Vermont State Police were notified of potentially impaired motorist traveling on US Route 4 in Mendon, VT. Troopers ultimately located the vehicle on VT Route 100 in Killington and conducted a traffic stop. Troopers identified the operator as Aaron Grammer. Throughout the interaction, Grammer displayed signs of impairment. Grammer was subsequently arrested for DUI and transported to the State Police Barracks in Rutland for processing. Grammer was released with a citation to answer for the charge of DUI at the Rutland Superior Court Criminal Division at a later date and time. 

Troopers were assisted by the Rutland Town Police Department and the Rutland City Police Department.

 

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A            

BAIL: N/A 

MUG SHOT: N/A

COURT ACTION: Yes 

COURT: Rutland Superior Court, Criminal Division 

COURT DATE/TIME: January 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM 

             

*Please note: court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm the arraignment time. 

 

St Johnsbury/Fugitive From Justice

News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26A4000166

RANK/TROOPER: Sergeant Brennan

                            

STATION: VSP - St. Johnsbury                   

CONTACT#: 802-748-3111

 

DATE/TIME: 01/03/26 1157 AM

INCIDENT LOCATION: Bradford Rest Area on Interstate 91, Bradford, VT

VIOLATION: Fugitive from Justice

 

ACCUSED: Jose Ruano                                      

AGE: 41

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Miami, FL

 

 

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:           

On 1/6/26 at approximately 1157 hours State Police received a call that there was a male passed out in a parked vehicle with a machete on his lap at the northbound Bradford Rest Area on Interstate 91. Troopers responded to the scene and made contact with the occupant of the vehicle identified as Jose Ruano(41). Subsequent investigation revealed Ruano had an extraditable warrant out of Florida for felony grand theft. State Police confirmed with the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office that they were willing to extradite Ruano back to Florida. Ruano was arrested and transported to the Bradford Outpost where he was processed. Bail and conditions were imposed by the Orange County Criminal Court where Ruano is scheduled to appear tomorrow at 1230pm. He was lodged at NERCF for lack of $25,000 bail.

 

 

COURT ACTION: Y

COURT DATE/TIME: 1/7/2026 at 12:30 PM            

COURT: Orange County Superior Court - Criminal Division

LODGED - LOCATION: Yes, NERCF

BAIL: $25,000

MUG SHOT: Yes

 

 

 

*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.

 

 

Sergeant Sean Brennan

Patrol Commander

VSP St Johnsbury Troop “A”

802-748-3111

1068 Us Route 5 Suite #1

St Johnsbury, VT 05819

 

Westminster Barracks / Request for information - Special Attention Newfane area

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B1000173

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Marie Beland                             

STATION: Vermont State Police – Westminster Barracks                     

CONTACT#: (802)722-4600

 

DATE/TIME: Reported on 01/06/2026, at approximately 1145 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Dover Road, Newfane, Vermont

VIOLATION: TBD

 

ACCUSED: UNKNOWN                                               

AGE: UNKNOWN

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: UNKNOWN

 

VICTIM: (The Vermont State Police does not release the names of victims of

sexual assault or domestic violence.)

AGE:

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE:

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: The Vermont State Police – Westminster Barracks is seeking the public’s assistance regarding the theft of approximately one-half cord of firewood from a residence located on Dover Road in the town of Newfane. The theft occurred sometime during the overnight hours between January 5th, and January 6th, 2026. Troopers are asking anyone who may have observed suspicious activity in the area of Dover Road during this time frame, or may have information regarding the theft, to contact the Vermont State Police – Westminster Barracks at (802)722-4600 or via e-mail at marie.beland@vermont.gov . Anonymous tips may also be submitted online at Submit a Tip | Vermont State Police or by texting keyword VTIPS to 274637 (CRIMES).

 

 

COURT ACTION: N/A

COURT DATE/TIME: N/A            

COURT: N/A

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A     

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: 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 Marie Beland

Vermont State Police

Westminster Barracks

1330 Westminster Heights Rd

Putney, Vermont 05346

Tel: (802)722-4600 x3

Email: marie.beland@vermont.gov

 

Royalton Barracks / DUI Drug

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B2000075

RANK/TROOPER NAME: Trooper Stacia Geno

STATION: Royalton

CONTACT#: 802-234-9933

 

DATE/TIME: 1/6/26, 0715 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: I-89 north, mm29.2, Randolph, VT

VIOLATION: DUI Drug

 

ACCUSED: Ben Goldschlager

AGE: 29

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Westport, CT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On 1/6/26, at approximately 0715 hours Troopers with the Vermont State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 89 northbound at mile marker 29.2 in the Town of Randolph. Upon arrival, the operator of the vehicle was identified as Goldschlager (29) who was transported to Gifford Medical Center and showed signs of impairment.  Goldschlager was processed for DUI Drug and given a citation to appear in Orange County Superior Court, Criminal Division on 3/25/26 at 0830 hours.

 

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: 03/25/26 – 0830 hours            

COURT: Orange County Superior Court, Criminal Division

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: 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 Stacia Geno
Vermont State Police 
B Troop - Royalton Barracks
2011 VT Route 107
Bethel, VT 05032
(802)234-9933
stacia.geno@vermont.gov

 

Update No. 1: Berlin Barracks/ Attempt to Locate

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26A3000094/25A3009034

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Troopers Mae Murdock and Alyssa Nozka                            

STATION: Berlin Barracks                     

CONTACT#: (802) 229-9191

 

DATE/TIME: January 05, 2026, at approximately 1430 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Kneeland Flats Tpk, Waterbury

VIOLATION: Attempt to locate

 

ACCUSED: Tristan Dunster                                               

AGE: 40

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Duxbury, VT

 

VICTIM: (The Vermont State Police does not release the names of victims of

sexual assault or domestic violence.)

AGE:

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE:

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

On Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, troopers received notification that Dunster turned himself in to the Criminal Division of Vermont Superior Court in Barre without incident. Dunster was ordered held without bail pending further court proceedings.

 

No additional information is available at this time from the Vermont State Police. Questions about Dunster’s status should be directed to the Criminal Court Clerk’s Office.

 

 

***Initial news release, 5:35 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2025***

On the above date and time, troopers responded to the Kneeland Flats Trailer Park in Waterbury in response to several tips from community members that Tristan “TJ” Dunster, 40, of Duxbury was staying at residences within. Dunster has an active arrest warrant for first-degree aggravated domestic assault, burglary, criminal threatening, and violation of conditions of release arising from an incident that occurred Dec. 29, 2025. Dunster was not located following this original incident, and an arrest warrant was issued, with bail set at $50,000.

 

The tip on Jan. 5 resulted in a large police presence at the trailer park in an attempt to locate Dunster. He was not located. The Vermont State Police is asking for the public’s assistance in locating Dunster. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Berlin Barracks at 802-229-9191. Anonymous tips may be provided online at https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.

 

Dunster is described as approximately 6-foot 01 inch and approximately 220 pounds, with partial gray hair. A photo of Dunster is attached to this release.

 

In the Dec. 29 incident, Dunster is accused of assaulting a former romantic partner. At the time of this assault, Dunster had active conditions of release preventing him from acting in a violent manner, along with two previous convictions of domestic assault.

 

 

 

COURT ACTION: Y

COURT DATE/TIME: PENDING           

COURT: WASHINGTON COUNTY CRIMINAL DIVISION

LODGED - LOCATION: PENDING    

BAIL: $50,000

MUG SHOT: Y

 

Westminster Barracks / DUI crash

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B1000146

RANK/TROOPER NAME: Trooper Clemens                              

STATION: Westminster Barracks                    

CONTACT#: 802-722-4600

 

DATE/TIME: 01/05/2026 – 4:52 PM

INCIDENT LOCATION: I-91 S Exit 5 on/off ramps / I-91 Access Rd, Westminster, VT

VIOLATION: DUI crash

 

ACCUSED: Benjamin Johnson

AGE: 26

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Brooklyn, NY

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On 01/05/2026, at approximately 4:52 PM, a Trooper with the Vermont State Police came across a two-vehicle crash in Westminster, VT. A subsequent investigation revealed 26-year-old Benjamin Johnson was driving under the influence of alcohol. Johnson was transported to the Westminster Barracks where he was cited and scheduled to appear in Vermont Superior Court Windham Criminal Division on 01/20/2026 at 8:30 AM.

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: 01/20/2026 - 8:30 AM            

COURT: Vermont Superior Court - Windham Criminal Division

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: Attached

 

*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 Eric Clemens

VSP Westminster

1330 Westminster Heights Rd

Westminster, VT 05158

(802)722-4600

Eric.clemens@vermont.gov

 

Shaftsbury Barracks - Operation without Consent & Criminal DLS

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 25B3005268

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Michael Arel                            

STATION: Shaftsbury Barracks                       

CONTACT#: (802) 442-5421

 

DATE/TIME: December 29, 2025 | 1513 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Pownal, VT

VIOLATION: Operation Without Consent & Criminal DLS

 

ACCUSED: Christopher P. Russell                                               

AGE: 35

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Bennington, VT

 

VICTIM: Tammy Ducette

AGE: 54

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Pownal, VT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

On December 29, 2025, at approximately 1513 hours Troopers were notified of a car theft reported by Tammy Ducette (54) in the Town of Pownal. Investigation discovered that Christopher P. Russell (35) had taken Ducette’s motor vehicle without consent. A Vermont DMV check discovered that Russell was also operating on a criminally suspended license. The motor vehicle was returned, and Russell was located by Troopers with the assistance of Bennington Probation & Parole. Russell was subsequently issued a citation to appear in the Vermont Superior Court - Bennington Criminal Division on March 2nd, 2026, at 0815 hours. 

 

COURT ACTION: YES

COURT DATE/TIME: 03/02/2026 | 0815 hours           

COURT: Vermont Superior Court - Bennington Criminal Division

LODGED - LOCATION: NOT LODGED     

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: NOT AVAILABLE

 

*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 Michael Arel

Vermont State Police

“B” Troop – Shaftsbury

96 Airport Road

Shaftsbury, VT 05262

(802) 442-5421

 

 

RE: Traffic Alert - I 89 NB mm90.6

Good morning,

 

Sorry for any confusion.  The crash on Interstate 89 NB at mm 85 has been cleared.  The roadway is also clear at I-89 NB mm 90.6.  This covers the Exit 12 – 14 area, Williston through Burlington.

 

Thank you.

 

From: Deslauriers, Katherine via DPS.VSPMedia <dps.vspmedia@list.vermont.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, January 6, 2026 7:57 AM
To: DPS - Roadway Alert <DPS.RoadwayAlert@vermont.gov>
Subject: Traffic Alert - I 89 NB mm90.6

 

EXTERNAL SENDER: Do not open attachments or click on links unless you recognize and trust the sender.

State of Vermont
Department of Public Safety
Vermont State Police
Williston

News Release – Highway / Traffic Notification
I 89 NB mm90.6 has no obstruction in the area of due to a Road reopened.

This incident is expected to last for .  Specific details are not yet available, updates will be provided as appropriate.
 
Motorists should expect delays in the area or seek alternate routes.  Please drive carefully.