VSP issues statement on messages sent to elections officials

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

Vermont State Police issues statement on messages sent to elections officials

 

WATERBURY, Vermont (Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021) — Over the past year, elections officials in numerous states, including Vermont, have received disturbing emails, phone calls and voicemail messages regarding the outcome of the 2020 presidential election. The Vermont Secretary of State’s Office received numerous voicemails that were offensive, profane, and upsetting. The office informed the Vermont State Police and the FBI of these messages. Both agencies conducted independent reviews. The state police obtained an independent legal analysis of the content of the messages from prosecutors in Washington County.

 

After review, the state’s attorney determined that the messages did not rise to the level of criminal conduct and are in fact protected speech. His legal conclusions are available at this link.

 

Recent media coverage has suggested that the phone number in question was “untraceable.” However, that quote was taken out of context from an internal email, which also stated that numerous court-ordered search warrants would be required to determine subscriber information, among other things. Because search warrants require probable cause for an underlying crime, and because there is no evidence of criminal conduct at this point, the state police is unable to proceed with any court process as part of the investigation.

 

“The safety and security of state employees and public servants is a priority for the Vermont State Police and my office. This matter was investigated with the utmost seriousness, as was appropriate given the nature of these repugnant messages,” Washington County State’s Attorney Rory Thibault said. “Although the communications are offensive and alarming, I concluded that they failed to rise to criminal conduct under current Vermont law. Fortunately, the rule of law is alive and well in Vermont, much due to the dedication of our election officials and public servants.”

 

The Vermont State Police agrees that elections officials are dedicated, hardworking public servants who are the backbones of our democracy. Like all of us, they deserve to go to work and do their jobs without fear and intimidation. That said, the police should not and cannot make up or willfully misconstrue the law in order to affect a desired outcome.

 

The Vermont State Police takes threats to all government officials seriously and will thoroughly investigate and forward for review any threats to the appropriate prosecutorial authority.

 

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State Police Advisory Commission releases synopsis of misconduct investigations involving VSP troopers

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

STATE POLICE ADVISORY COMMISSION

 

 

State Police Advisory Commission releases synopsis of misconduct investigations involving Vermont State Police troopers

 

WATERBURY, Vermont (Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021) — The Vermont Department of Public Safety and the State Police Advisory Commission today are releasing the second semiannual detailed summary of internal investigations involving members of the Vermont State Police.

 

The release of these detailed synopses began in January 2021 and is designed to provide greater transparency, public awareness and oversight to the activities of the Vermont State Police, while balancing rules regarding internal investigations and the need to have internal investigations completed before public dissemination.

 

A report, available at this link, contains synopses of the 11 matters that came before SPAC from July 1, 2020, to Dec. 31, 2020.

 

The report shows that of the 11 cases, eight came to the attention of supervisors due to internal reporting by members of the state police, while three matters arose through concerns raised by community members.

 

Three of the complaints were determined to have represented no violation of VSP policy by the member in question. The other eight complaints either were substantiated, or the trooper involved resigned before the internal investigation concluded. The complaints in this category included instances related to accidental firearms discharge; off-duty alcohol consumption; violations of COVID-19 safety protocols; mistreatment of other troopers; discourteousness with the public; inaccuracies in a traffic ticket; and an instance of domestic assault. Sanctions for the substantiated violations ranged from letters of reprimand to termination of employment.

 

Synopses in the report do not include identifying information about the troopers involved, which is confidential as a matter of law.

 

The State Police Advisory Commission was created by statute in 1979 and is comprised of seven members appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Vermont Senate.  Among the duties of SPAC is to provide civilian oversight of the Vermont State Police and to advise and counsel the Commissioner of Public Safety in his/her overall responsibilities for the management, supervision and control of the Vermont State Police. In addition, SPAC is statutorily empowered to provide advice and counsel to the Commissioner of Public Safety to ensure appropriate action is taken with respect to allegations of misconduct by Vermont State Police officers. To assist the Commissioner of Public Safety and SPAC, Vermont law also requires DPS to maintain an Office of Internal Investigations (IA), whose sole responsibility is to investigate allegations of misconduct by members of the Vermont State Police. The IA Office, staffed with a Vermont State Police commander, reports directly to the Commissioner.

 

The current SPAC members are highly respected professionals and represent a cross-section of Vermont. They are: Chairwoman Nancy Sheahan; Vice Chairman Glenn Boyde; and members Allison Crowley, John Filipek, Shirley Jefferson, and Mary Alice McKenzie.

 

The Department of Public Safety IA Office receives allegations of misconduct or improper conduct by a Vermont state trooper in two ways. First, the public may lodge a complaint regarding a state trooper’s conduct by telephone, through the Vermont State Police website, via email, or in person. These allegations are referred to as “citizen complaints.” In addition, each VSP member is obligated to promptly report any evidence or allegation of misconduct or improper conduct involving a state trooper. These reports are referred to as “employee complaints.” 

 

Not all complaints rise to the level of requiring a formal internal affairs investigation. These are typically handled by the station or unit commander. For instance, a complaint about a trooper speeding on the highway normally would be handled by the station or unit commander. More serious allegations, as determined by the Commissioner, are opened as formal internal affairs investigations. In the case of an allegation of misconduct that consists of criminal conduct, the internal investigation typically is stayed pending the conclusion of a criminal investigation and/or prosecution by appropriate prosecutorial authorities. Once an internal affairs investigation is complete, the Commissioner determines what disciplinary action, if any, is appropriate and should be imposed. The entire case is then reviewed by the State Police Advisory Commission to ensure appropriate action has been taken.

 

Vermont law requires that all internal investigations “shall be confidential” except in limited circumstances. Accordingly, specific details beyond the synopses regarding these 2020 investigations cannot be made public.

 

SPAC meetings generally are held bi-monthly and are open to the public (except when SPAC is in executive session). Meeting dates can be found on the DPS website by clicking the SPAC link under “Committees and Boards.”

 

 

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Vermont State Police pledges to advance women in policing

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

 

Vermont State Police pledges to advance women in policing

National 30x30 Pledge aims to bring more women into policing to improve public safety, community outcomes, and trust in law enforcement

 

WATERBURY, Vt. (Thursday, March 25, 2021) — The Vermont State Police today becomes the first statewide law-enforcement agency in the country to sign on to the 30x30 Pledge — a series of low- and no-cost actions that police agencies can take to improve the representation and experiences of women in law enforcement.

 

The actions will help policing agencies assess the current state of a department regarding gender equity; identify factors that may be driving any disparities; and develop and implement strategies and solutions to eliminate barriers and advance women in policing. These actions address recruitment, assessment, hiring, retention, promotion and agency culture.

 

The pledge is the foundational effort of the 30x30 Initiative — a coalition of police leaders, researchers and professional organizations coming together to advance the representation and experiences of women in all ranks of policing across the United States. The 30x30 Initiative is affiliated with the Policing Project at NYU School of Law and the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE).

                                                                                                                                             

The goal of the 30x30 Initiative is to reach 30 percent of women in police recruit classes by 2030, and to ensure that policing agencies truly are representative of the jurisdiction the agency serves. While 30x30 is focused on advancing women in policing, these principles are applicable to all demographic diversity, not just gender. 

“The Vermont State Police is actively working toward improving the representation and experiences of women officers in our department,” said Capt. Julie Scribner, VSP’s co-director of fair & impartial policing and community affairs. “To better reflect the communities we serve, we know that we need to continue making strides toward hiring and retaining a diverse membership. We are honored to be among the first in the nation to make this critical commitment, and we look forward to working with and learning from agencies in Vermont and across the country that share our priority.”

 

More than 35 agencies — from major metro departments including the New York City Police Department, to mid-sized, rural, university and state policing agencies — have signed the 30x30 Pledge. The pledge is based on social science research that greater representation of women on police forces leads to better policing outcomes for communities.

 

Nationally, women make up only 12% of sworn officers — and about half that for state law-enforcement agencies. Women comprise about 3% of police leadership in the U.S. For the Vermont State Police, about 13% of troopers and 15% of leadership are represented by women. This underrepresentation of women in policing has significant public safety implications.

 

“We are grateful to the Vermont State Police for being one of the first in the nation to commit to being a part of this growing movement,” said Maureen McGough, co-founder of the 30x30 Initiative, chief of staff of the Policing Project at the New York University School of Law, and former policing expert at the U.S. Department of Justice. “We believe strongly that advancing women in policing is critical to improving public safety outcomes. We look forward to having more agencies follow VSP’s lead by signing the pledge and improving the representation and experiences of women in policing.”

 

For more information, visit www.30x30initiative.org.

 

Media contact:

Capt. Julie Scribner, co-director of fair & impartial policing and community affairs, is available for interviews to discuss this initiative. Please send requests by email to Public Information Officer Adam Silverman at adam.silverman@vermont.gov.

 

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Department of Public Safety, anti-domestic-violence groups receive $1M grant to support advocacy efforts

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

Department of Public Safety, anti-domestic-violence groups receive $1M grant to support advocacy efforts

 

WATERBURY, Vt. (Monday, March 1, 2021) — A nearly $1 million federal grant awarded to the Vermont Department of Public Safety will launch an innovative partnership with community advocacy organizations and a national research group aimed at reducing domestic violence in Vermont.

 

Grant funds will be divided among the Vermont State Police, the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, and the Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center, a national nonprofit that works in all 50 states to increase public safety and strengthen communities. The three organizations have been recognized as innovative leaders in taking on domestic violence, and the three-year grant allows their critical work to expand even further.

 

“This grant offers us the opportunity to provide a modern response to people who cause harm in their relationships, through collaboration across law enforcement and community-based groups such as the Vermont Network that work with survivors,” said state police Maj. Ingrid Jonas, commander of the Support Services Division and a leader of the agency’s efforts to reduce domestic violence statewide.

 

The goals of the grant-funded initiative: Develop more effective ways to intervene with people who cause harm in their relationships; expand the focus of reducing domestic violence to be more inclusive of historically marginalized communities; and harness research to target the effort most effectively at centering the safety of survivors.

 

“We know we have a domestic violence problem here in Vermont,” said Karen Tronsgard-Scott, executive director of the Vermont Network. “We have an outstanding system of organizations that provide services to survivors of domestic violence, and we have a small cadre of organizations that provide domestic violence accountability programming, but we need to do more in order to stem the tide of domestic violence in the state.”

 

In Vermont each year, an average of 50% of all homicides are the result of interpersonal or domestic violence. In 2019, the Vermont Network reports that its 16 member organizations answered 18,921 hotline calls and helped 8,760 individuals, predominantly with issues of domestic violence and sexual assault.

 

Conversations in Vermont and across the country about policing reform make the timing particularly apt for this local collaboration, Network Executive Director Tronsgard-Scott said. “I’m excited to do this work with the Vermont State Police,” she said. “This grant really will help us build the kinds of relationships we need to lead to positive outcomes.”

 

Maj. Jonas agreed, saying, “We bring different strengths and backgrounds to this partnership. The Vermont State Police has worked for years to improve its response to domestic violence, including coordinating with community groups and working to roll out a threat assessment for use throughout Vermont. This new initiative allows us to do even more in service of survivors of domestic violence.”

 

The grant will enable the Vermont Network to hire a coordinator to oversee the project; support the creation of a working group to manage the initiative; cover the costs of CSG Justice Center research; and provide funding to cover a domestic violence response coordinator within the Vermont State Police.

 

The working group will collaborate with the CSG Justice Center to gather and process data, conduct interviews, engage stakeholders and take additional steps as needed to provide a deep examination of Vermont’s systems for domestic violence intervention and prevention. The group then will make recommendations on structural and systemic reforms, and work with policymakers to implement those reforms.

 

One goal is to look beyond heterosexual relationships and provide more support for people in same-sex relationships, BIPOC individuals, immigrants, refugees, and the state’s farmworker community, among others.

 

The project also will develop more effective and timely intervention strategies with people who cause harm in their relationships, including restorative justice and addressing abusers who also experience substance-use disorder.

 

“This is going to make a big difference in our state for survivors,” Executive Director Tronsgard-Scott said. “It’s going to catalyze a conversation that’s long overdue.”

 

The Department of Public Safety and the Vermont State Police are the formal recipients of the grant, which was sought in spring 2020 and awarded by the federal Bureau of Justice Assistance late last year. The funding breakdown includes $649,273 for the CSG Justice Center, which will dedicate a team to the Vermont project; $252,000 for the Vermont Network; and $29,127 for the Vermont State Police. The three-year grant could be extended for an additional two years if necessary.

 

MEDIA CONTACT

Members of the Vermont State Police and the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence are available to speak to the media regarding the grant award. Interview requests may be made to the VSP public information officer, Adam Silverman, by email at adam.silverman@vermont.gov.

 

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State Police Advisory Commission provides synopsis of misconduct investigations involving VSP troopers

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

STATE POLICE ADVISORY COMMISSION

 

 

State Police Advisory Commission provides synopsis of misconduct investigations involving Vermont State Police troopers

 

WATERBURY, Vermont (Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021) — Michael Schirling, commissioner of the Department of Public Safety, and Nancy Sheahan, chairwoman of the State Police Advisory Commission, issued the following joint statement Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021, regarding the work of SPAC and the Internal Affairs Office within the Department of Public Safety during the first half of 2020. 

 

DPS in the past has provided an overview of SPAC’s work, but today’s public release of information represents the first time the department has provided detail about individual cases.

 

“In an effort to further increase transparency in operations, beginning in January 2021 and continuing twice annually in January and July, the Department of Public Safety and Vermont State Police, with the support of the independent State Police Advisory Commission, will begin releasing synopses of all internal investigations,” Commissioner Schirling said. “These synopses will be compiled in six month increments to balance timeliness with the need to have complete investigations and resolutions prior to release.”

 

The attached report, which is available to view at this link, contains synopses of the 10 matters that came before SPAC from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2020.

 

The report shows that of the 10 cases, six came to the attention of supervisors due to internal reporting by members of the state police, and four arose through complaints by community members.

 

Four of the complaints were determined to have represented no violation by the VSP member in question, while the other six complaints were substantiated. The substantiated complaints included instances related to accidental firearms discharge; a motor vehicle crash; off-duty alcohol consumption; violations of COVID-19 safety protocols; and mistreatment of other troopers. Sanctions for these violations ranged from letters of reprimand to loss of annual leave time and suspensions without pay.

 

Synopses in the report do not include identifying information about the troopers involved, which is confidential as a matter of law.

 

The State Police Advisory Commission was created by statute in 1979 and is comprised of seven members appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Vermont Senate.  Among the duties of SPAC is to provide civilian oversight of the Vermont State Police and to advise and counsel the Commissioner of Public Safety in his/her overall responsibilities for the management, supervision and control of the Vermont State Police. In addition, SPAC is statutorily empowered to provide advice and counsel to the Commissioner of Public Safety to ensure appropriate action is taken with respect to allegations of misconduct by Vermont State Police officers. To assist the Commissioner of Public Safety and SPAC, Vermont law also requires DPS to maintain an Office of Internal Investigations (IA), whose sole responsibility is to investigate allegations of misconduct by members of the Vermont State Police. The IA Office, staffed with a Vermont State Police commander, reports directly to the commissioner.

 

The current SPAC members are each highly respected professionals and represent a cross-section of Vermont. They are: 

 

Nancy Sheahan (chairwoman) 

Glenn Boyde (vice chairman)

Allison Crowley DeMag

John Filipek

Shirley Jefferson

Mary Alice McKenzie

Patti Pallito

 

The Department of Public Safety IA Office receives allegations of misconduct or improper conduct by a Vermont state trooper in two ways. First, the public may lodge a complaint regarding a state trooper’s conduct by telephone, through the Vermont State Police website, via email, or in person. These allegations are referred to as “citizen complaints.” In addition, each VSP member is obligated to promptly report any evidence or allegation of misconduct or improper conduct involving a state trooper. These reports are referred to as “employee complaints.” 

 

Not all complaints rise to the level of requiring a formal internal affairs investigation. These are typically handled by the station or unit commander. For instance, a complaint about a trooper who was speeding on the highway normally would be handled by the station or unit commander. More serious allegations, as determined by the commissioner, are opened as formal internal affairs investigations. In the case of an allegation of misconduct that consists of criminal conduct, the internal investigation typically is stayed pending the conclusion of a criminal investigation and/or prosecution by appropriate prosecutorial authorities. Once an internal affairs investigation is complete, the commissioner determines what disciplinary action, if any, is appropriate and should be imposed. The entire case is then reviewed by the State Police Advisory Commission to ensure appropriate action has been taken.

 

Vermont law requires that all internal investigations “shall be confidential” except in limited circumstances. Accordingly, specific details beyond the synopses regarding these 2020 investigations cannot be made public.

 

SPAC meetings are generally held bi-monthly and are open to the public (except when SPAC is in executive session). Meeting dates can be found on the DPS website by clicking the SPAC link under “Committees and Boards.”

 

 

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Vermont State Police collaborates with DNA experts on Brianna Maitland case

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

Vermont State Police collaborates with DNA experts on Brianna Maitland case

 

WATERBURY, Vermont (Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020) — As part of the Vermont State Police’s ongoing investigation into the 2004 disappearance of Brianna Maitland, detectives are partnering with a Texas-based company on new analysis of scientific evidence that may help shed light on what happened to the missing 17-year-old.

 

Brianna was last seen the evening of March 19, 2004, leaving The Black Lantern Inn in Montgomery, where she worked, in her 1985 Oldsmobile 88. The car was located the next day backed into an abandoned building about a mile from the restaurant. Although initially believed that Brianna might have run away, it was later determined she could have been a victim of foul play. Investigators have pursued multiple leads throughout the years, but none have led to Brianna.

 

Now, the state police Major Crime Unit is collaborating with Othram, a Houston business that specializes in forensic testing and works on the cutting edge of DNA and scientific techniques to help identify victims, locate missing persons and uncover perpetrators of crime.

 

Through this partnership with the Vermont State Police, Othram will analyze DNA evidence recovered during the investigation into Brianna’s disappearance. The company has launched a fundraising drive to cover the costs of testing.

 

“We’ve never lost sight of Brianna’s case and have worked relentlessly to find out what happened to her so we can provide answers for her loved ones and hold any offenders accountable,” said Capt. Scott Dunlap, commander of VSP’s Major Crime Unit. “This partnership, leveraging the latest scientific tools and techniques available, provides our investigators with another avenue to pursue.”

 

The use of genetic genealogy tracing in the Brianna’s case follows a similar partnership announced earlier this summer. The Vermont State Police collaborated with Parabon Nanolabs of Reston, Virginia, to conduct genetic genealogy testing in the unsolved homicide case of an unidentified infant, “Baby Boy Doe,” who was found dead April 1, 1982, on Mill Hill Road in Northfield. Parabon launched a fundraising campaign to cover their costs, which was fully funded through contributions from the public in August. Parabon is now proceeding with its work on this case.

 

Members of the public can help in several ways with the Brianna Maitland investigation. Anyone with tips or other information that might in any way be relevant should contact Detective Sgt. Angela Baker at angela.baker@vermont.gov, or submit an anonymous tip online (https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit).

 

To learn more, visit the case page on the Vermont State Police website, or go to the fundraising page posted by Othram.

 

The direct links are as follows:

• VSP case page: https://vsp.vermont.gov/unsolved/missing/a/maitland
• Fundraising campaign: https://dnasolves.com/articles/brianna_maitland

 

MEDIA CONTACT

Members of the media requesting interviews with investigators regarding the Brianna Maitland case should contact Adam Silverman, the state police public information officer, at adam.silverman@vermont.gov.

 

 

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Vermont State Police focuses on new DNA technology in unsolved 1982 homicide of infant

 

 

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

Vermont State Police focuses on new DNA technology in unsolved 1982 homicide of infant

 

WATERBURY, Vermont (Thursday, July 23, 2020) — Detectives with the Vermont State Police are hoping an emerging investigative technique involving DNA will help shed light on the unsolved 1982 killing of an infant in Northfield.

 

Baby Boy Doe was found dead April 1, 1982, on the side of Mill Hill Road in Northfield, wrapped in a brown bath towel inside a sealed plastic garbage bag. Evidence indicated the boy had been carried full term and born healthy only hours earlier, likely nearby. His death is attributed to exposure to the elements. The identity of his parents remains unknown.

 

Now, partnering with a Virginia-based company that specializes in genetic genealogy, the state police Cold Case Unit is working toward a break in the case that could lead to the baby’s identity or the identity of the parents.

 

“Baby Boy Doe left us with an important clue about what might have happened to him: his DNA,” said Capt. Scott Dunlap, who oversees the Cold Case Unit as commander of the Major Crime Unit. “In the nearly 40 years since his death, technology has caught up with the evidence, allowing us to move forward in a way that was never possible before.”

 

The Vermont State Police has partnered with Parabon Nanolabs, based in Reston, Virginia, to conduct the genetic genealogy testing — a procedure that comes with a roughly $5,000 price tag. Parabon has launched a “Justice Drive” to raise money to cover their costs.

 

“We’ve never lost sight of this victim or of the secondary victims in this case. We want to learn the identity of this infant, help bring answers to the community, and hold the offender responsible,” said Heather Gibbs, a cold case specialist with the state police. “Our detectives have done amazing and tireless work on this case since 1982, but our investigative efforts can go only so far.”

 

“We used the time during the pandemic-related stay-home orders earlier this year to pursue many unsolved cases,” she continued, “and the DNA techniques now available to us are helping advance the progress of the Baby Boy Doe investigation.”

 

Members of the public can help in several ways. Anyone with tips or other information they think could be relevant should contact Detective Sgt. Angela Baker at angela.baker@vermont.gov, or submit an anonymous tip online (https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit).

 

People who want to learn more about the Baby Boy Doe investigation should visit the case page on the Vermont State Police website, or visit the Justice Drive page established by Parabon Nanolabs.

 

The direct links are as follows:

• VSP case page: https://vsp.vermont.gov/unsolved/homicide/babydoe
• Justice Drive: https://justicedrive.org/cases/Northfield-VT--19820401

 

“Vermonters should know that we continue to pursue unsolved homicides, even after many years or decades,” Capt. Dunlap said. “We know how important it is to bring closure to families, and offenders to justice. The Baby Boy Doe case is just the latest example — and it’s one where members of the public can play a direct role in helping us find answers.”

 

MEDIA CONTACT

Investigators with the Vermont State Police will be available to discuss the Baby Boy Doe case. Members of the media requesting interviews should contact Adam Silverman, the state police public information officer, at adam.silverman@vermont.gov.

 

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Vermont public safety leaders present draft law enforcement modernization and reform plan to state lawmakers

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

 

Vermont public safety leaders present draft law enforcement modernization and reform plan to state lawmakers

 

MONTPELIER, Vt. (Thursday, June 11, 2020) — Law enforcement and public safety leaders from across Vermont are presenting to the Legislature a draft set of action items and reforms intended to modernize policing in the state.

 

The 10-point proposal, intended as a starting point for the conversation, was developed by the Vermont Department of Public Safety, the Vermont State Police, the Office of the Vermont Attorney General, the Vermont Association of Chiefs of Police, the Vermont Criminal Justice Training Council and the Vermont Sheriffs’ Association in consultation with community representatives of the Vermont State Police Fair & Impartial Policing Committee. The recommendations will move forward at the pace that the Legislature and the community desires and with their input.

 

“America has experienced a tipping point in the nationwide crisis involving police use of force. Awareness and acknowledgement of institutionalized racism throughout the criminal justice system has likely never been at a higher level,” the draft document states. “In Vermont, there must be a systematic approach to comprehensive police reform. While much of this work has been ongoing for years, this is a time for police and the criminal justice community to listen to the concerns and calls for action and accelerate this work as rapidly as possible.”

 

The latest version of the plan is available by following this link.

 

The 10 recommendations are as follows, and are explained in further detail in the full draft document attached to this release:

 

1. Change hiring practices at law enforcement agencies.
2. Modernize training of law enforcement personnel.
3. Improve the process for promotions and selecting supervisors.
4. Ensure allegations of police misconduct are investigated with transparency and consistency.
5. Implement a standardized, statewide data collection system for use of force, traffic stops, arrests, mental health and other related topics.
6. Require body-worn cameras for all law enforcement officers.
7. Redouble community collaboration efforts.
8. Implement one or more means of providing community oversight of police.
9. Create and adopt a statewide use-of-force policy.
10. Develop a statewide stance on use of military surplus equipment.

 

The agencies and individuals involved in creating these recommendations understand they are a starting point, not a finish line, and they will be evaluated and refined with extensive community input. Many of the strategies could be implemented within three to six months, but the pace will be tempered as needed to ensure all Vermonters, especially those who have experienced inequity firsthand, can offer their ideas.

 

As the document states: “We will move forward together to ensure we not only follow constitutional, ethical, and core values, but match the needs of our respective communities. At a minimum, that means working together with all Vermonters to end the pattern and practice of disparate, inequitable treatment of the people throughout the criminal justice system. More broadly, we must forge stronger ties with the communities we serve to understand their needs and priorities and work together to resolve them. Together with our communities and partners, we commit to these changes.”

 

MEDIA CONTACT

Commissioner Michael Schirling

Vermont Department of Public Safety

Please send interview requests by email to the state police public information officer, Adam Silverman, at adam.silverman@vermont.gov.

 

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DPS issues guidance on enforcement of 'Stay Home, Stay Safe' order

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

 

Vermont Department of Public Safety issues guidance on enforcement of 'Stay Home, Stay Safe' executive order

Law enforcement will rely on educating the public and receiving voluntary compliance as Vermonters unite to care for one another

 

 

WATERBURY, Vt. (March 25, 2020) — The Vermont Department of Public Safety on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, issued guidance to local police departments regarding potential enforcement of Gov. Phil Scott's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order, announced Tuesday, March 24, and effective at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 25.

 

Today, DPS and the Vermont State Police — the largest law-enforcement agency in the state — recommended to Vermont municipal leaders and law-enforcement executives that enforcement of this executive order be handled primarily through education and voluntary compliance.

 

"I have tremendous faith in Vermonters' shared ability to follow these directives in order to save lives, and to support each other and their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic," Governor Phil Scott said. "Vermont is a small state with close-knit communities known for looking out for the wellbeing of our neighbors. When we tell people to stay home to save lives, I'm confident Vermonters will do the right thing."

 

Public Safety Commissioner Michael Schirling said that law enforcement and the public will be partners in this process.

 

"Vermonters are really coming together to heed the orders that have been issued to date," Commissioner Schirling said. "We expect the same will happen with this additional order. We believe that education and voluntary compliance is the key as Vermonters unite during this difficult time."

 

 

WHAT IS THE ORDER?

Gov. Scott's order directs Vermonters to stay at home, leaving only for essential reasons, critical to health and safety, such as grocery shopping, seeking medical care, or exercising outside. If leaving the home, Vermonters should adhere to social distancing policies, including remaining 6 feet from others (except for those with whom they share a home), regularly washing their hands, and avoiding touching their faces.

 

All businesses and nonprofits not expressly exempted in the order must suspend all in-person business operations. Operations that can be conducted online or by phone, or sales that can be facilitated with curbside pickup or delivery only, may continue.  

 

The order contains exemptions for businesses and entities that provide services or functions deemed critical to public health and safety, along with economic and national security. This includes — but is not limited to — health care operations; retail that serves essential human needs, such as grocery stores, pharmacies and hardware stores; fuel products and supply; maintenance of critical infrastructure; news media; financial institutions; and transportation and critical manufacturing sectors. Travel to and from these exempt businesses and entities is permitted. For a full list, please review the order at this link.

 

Leaving the home for exercise and outdoor activity is allowed, provided that people are adhering to appropriate social distancing. The order is in effect until April 15, 2020, though it may be extended or shortened as needed.

 

 

HOW WILL THE ORDER BE ENFORCED?

In instances where police officers observe or are made aware of people operating in violation of Gov. Scott's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order, law enforcement is encouraged to speak with the proprietor, staff, or group, provide a reminder of the new requirements, and assess voluntary compliance. Civil or regulatory mechanisms, specifically informing and educating those encountered in violation of the order about the mechanisms that may apply, could prove helpful.  Again, officials expect the vast majority of compliance to be self-regulating.

 

The executive order does not close roads, nor does it establish roadblocks, checkpoints or the authority to demand identification. Motor-vehicle and pedestrian traffic will continue as Vermonters engage in permissible activities outdoors and travel to and from businesses and entities that are continuing to operate under the order. Accordingly, the order does not establish cause to initiate a motor vehicle stop or detain people for questioning about their travel.

 

 

WHAT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS?

Vermonters seeking additional information about the executive order should call 2-1-1, and visit the websites of Gov. Scott (governor.vermont.gov) and Vermont Emergency Management (vem.vermont.gov). Please do not call Vermont State Police dispatch.

 

Commercial entities, nonprofits, employers and others with questions about acceptable continuation of business operations should contact the Agency of Commerce and Community Development via this online form: https://bit.ly/covid-vt-business-operations.

 

 

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DPS encourages Vermonters to avoid disinformation during pandemic

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

 

DPS encourages Vermonters to avoid disinformation during pandemic

 

WATERBURY, Vt. (March 21, 2020) — In times of crisis, separating fact from fiction is more important than ever. But doing so can also be more difficult.

 

That’s why the Vermont Department of Public Safety strongly encourages residents to avoid spreading rumors, speculation and disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, Vermonters should turn to trusted sources including their municipal and state governments, established local and national news outlets, and fact-checking and myth-busting resources from federal authorities.

 

“‘Trust but verify’ is the old cliché, but now we need to turn it around: ‘Verify, then trust,’” said Michael Schirling, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Public Safety. “Sharing unfounded rumors, even if you have the best of intentions, can have unintended consequences like spreading fear and stretching already burdened resources even more thin.”

 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers a comprehensive, regularly updated website to dispel disinformation that is circulating online. The direct link is https://www.fema.gov/Coronavirus-Rumor-Control.

 

Additional resources include:

• FEMA: The agency offers a comprehensive overview of the virus and the government’s response efforts. (https://www.fema.gov/coronavirus)
• PolitiFact: The trusted news organization provides a list of seven tips on how to avoid falling for falsehoods surrounding the pandemic. (https://bit.ly/COVIDfactcheck)
• The Journalist’s Toolbox: This service by the Society of Professional Journalists offers an ever-expanding list of verified links to official sources of information and data. (https://bit.ly/ToolboxLinks)

 

People also should be cautious about email scams and malicious websites that are seeking to exploit the current situation. Vermonters are reminded to follow best practices for safety online, including verifying links in messages before following them, ensuring the legitimacy of websites before visiting them, and being especially skeptical of unusual emails.

 

“We want people to stay safe as we all navigate this crisis together,” Commissioner Schirling said. “That includes looking after not only your health, but also the accuracy of information you receive and choose to pass along to others. Be especially wary of unfounded posts on Facebook, links to unknown sources, or text messages that purport to be from someone with special access to insider information. Remember, disinformation can be dangerous.”

 

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Vermont State Police modifies operations in response to COVID-19

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

 

Vermont State Police modifies operations in response to COVID-19

 

 

WATERBURY, Vt. (March 14, 2020) — During these unprecedented times, people, businesses and governments throughout the world are modifying their operations as a novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has spread around the globe. In Vermont, Gov. Phil Scott declared a state of emergency Friday, enacting steps to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the most vulnerable.

The Vermont State Police, like law-enforcement agencies nationwide, has planned for this situation and is taking precautions. Commanders have directed members of the state police to make certain modifications to their operations to protect both the workforce and the public.

 

“These modifications are undertaken out of an abundance of caution to ensure we are taking appropriate steps to reduce unnecessary risks of exposure to COVID-19 for members of the Vermont State Police and for Vermont residents,” Commissioner of Public Safety Michael Schirling said. “But I want to be clear: The Vermont State Police is still in full and active operation.”

 

Under the procedures currently in effect, Vermont State Police barracks are staffed, and members are continuing to respond to calls. In some cases, the agency will change the way it handles those calls. For instance, troopers will physically respond to major case investigations such as homicide, and to calls regarding crimes in progress, motor vehicle crashes with injuries, missing persons cases and domestic assault, as a few examples. As needed, troopers may take precautions such as social distancing, consulting with medical first responders, and using personal protective equipment.

In other cases, such as minor motor vehicles crashes, vandalisms and thefts, the state police may take reports from the public over the phone. State police members are making these response decisions in consultation with supervisors. The Vermont State Police encourages people who are victims of these types of crimes to report them over the phone rather than by walking in at a barracks. Additionally, state police members are evaluating the necessity of trainings and travel and will curtail or reschedule those events as appropriate.

“The public should rest assured that our services remain available. We are continuing to function as a law-enforcement agency should under the unusual circumstances we all are facing,” said Col. Matthew T. Birmingham, director of the Vermont State Police. “The state police is taking prudent precautions to ensure we can continue to respond to calls for service, as Vermonters rightfully expect us to do.”

These procedures have been developed by Commissioner Schirling and Col. Birmingham in consultation with health experts. Additional steps, if necessary, will be determined by these same individuals, with the continual goal of ensuring the protection of the lives and safety of all Vermonters.

 

A list of all Vermont State Police barracks, their phone numbers, and the names and email addresses of the commanders of those barracks is available at the following link: https://vsp.vermont.gov/stations.

 

 

MEDIA CONTACT

Adam Silverman

Public information officer, Vermont State Police

adam.silverman@vermont.gov

 

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Commissioner of Public Safety and Chairwoman of State Police Advisory Commission Issue Summary of Misconduct Investigations Against Members of the Vermont State Police in 2018

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

STATE POLICE ADVISORY COMMISSION

 

NEWS RELEASE

Commissioner of Public Safety and Chairwoman of State Police Advisory Commission Issue Summary of Misconduct Investigations Against Members of the Vermont State Police in 2018

 

WATERBURY, Vermont (Feb. 28, 2019) — Thomas D. Anderson, Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and Nancy P. Sheahan, Chairwoman of the State Police Advisory Commission, have issued the following joint statement summarizing the work of SPAC and the Internal Affairs Office within the Department of Public Safety during 2018. 

 

This marks the first time that DPS has released a public summary of the commission’s work.

 

“DPS and the Vermont State Police strive to hold members of the State Police to the highest professional and ethical standards.  Sharing this information with Vermonters represents another step in advancing transparency and accountability within the Department of Public Safety and the Vermont State Police,” Commissioner Anderson said. “By providing this summary, we are able to give people a better understanding of the oversight role and critical work of the State Police Advisory Commission and the important work of VSP’s Internal Affairs Office.”

 

In 2018, the State Police Advisory Commission met five times with the Commissioner of Public Safety, the Director of the Vermont State Police, and the Director of Internal Affairs.  In 2018, the Commissioner of Public Safety directed formal internal affairs investigations be commenced in response to four citizen complaints and 15 employee complaints.  These allegations of misconduct included but were not limited to failures to follow orders, conduct unbecoming a State Police officer, neglect of duty, and criminal conduct.  The 19 citizen and employee complaints were resolved as follows: Six are pending, four were unfounded, six were founded, and three involved members who resigned prior to the completion of the investigation.  Disciplinary action included letters of reprimand, loss of annual leave, suspension without pay, and demotion. 

 

Additionally, there were five officer-involved-shooting investigations, which as a matter of routine procedure resulted in internal investigations being opened on 15 troopers.  Two of the officer-involved-shooting investigations remain pending.  Three of the shooting investigations involving 13 officers were closed after being found to be justified by the offices of the Attorney General and the relevant State’s Attorney, and after the 13 officers were found to have acted in conformity with the State Police Use of Force Policy. 

 

In addition, there were 48 motor-vehicle crashes involving State Police officers that also were reviewed by the IA Office.  Of these matters, 20 resulted in formal discipline being imposed, which ranged from a letter of reprimand to a loss of annual leave to a suspension without pay.

 

The State Police Advisory Commission (SPAC) was created by statute in 1979 and is comprised of seven members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Vermont Senate.  Among the duties of SPAC is to provide civilian oversight of the Vermont State Police and to advise and counsel the Commissioner of Public Safety in his/her overall responsibilities for the management, supervision and control of the Vermont State Police.  In addition, SPAC is statutorily empowered to provide advice and counsel to the Commissioner of Public Safety to ensure appropriate action is taken with respect to allegations of misconduct by State Police officers.  To assist the Commissioner of Public Safety and SPAC, Vermont law also requires DPS to maintain an Office of Internal Investigations (IA), whose sole responsibility is to investigate allegations of misconduct by members of the Vermont State Police. The IA Office, staffed with a Vermont State Police commander, reports directly to the Commissioner.

 

The current SPAC members are each highly respected professionals and represent a cross-section of Vermont.  Current members are: 

 

• Shirley Jefferson:  A professor and the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Diversity at Vermont Law School.  She graduated summa cum laude from Southeastern University. 
• Mary Alice McKenzie: The former Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Burlington for 10 years and the former CEO of McKenzie of Vermont.  In 2014, Ms. McKenzie was the winner of Champlain College’s Distinguished Citizen Award and has served on numerous boards of directors, including Central Vermont Public Service, VELCO, Vermont Yankee, Vermont Federal Bank, the Associated Industries of Vermont, and the American Meat Institute. 
• Patti Pallito: A Director for Aon Captive Insurance & Management.  Ms. Pallito is responsible for the delivery of financial and insurance services to Aon's Vermont-based captive clients.  She holds an M.B.A. from Fordham University and is a C.P.A. 
• Glenn Boyde: A long-time and well-respected Probation and Parole Officer for the State of Vermont.
• Allison Crowley DeMag: A businesswoman and principal of Morris and Demag, Inc., which was founded in 1990 and assists clients achieve public-policy goals. 
• Nancy Sheahan: A principal of McNeil, Leddy & Sheahan, one of the most respected law firms in Vermont.  She has expertise in constitutional violations, police misconduct and accepted police practices and policies. 
• John Filipek:  A retired Vermont State Police officer who served the people of Vermont for 30 years.  Over his career, Mr. Filipek worked his way up through the ranks serving as Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain and as Major of the Field Force Division. 

 

The Department of Public Safety IA Office receives allegations of misconduct or improper conduct by a Vermont state trooper in two ways.  First, the public may lodge a complaint regarding a State Police officer’s conduct by telephone, through the Vermont State Police website, via email, or in person.  These allegations are referred to as “citizen complaints.”  In addition, each State Police officer is obligated to promptly report any evidence or allegation of misconduct or improper conduct involving a State Police officer.  These reports are referred to as “employee complaints.” 

 

Not all complaints rise to the level of requiring a formal internal affairs investigation.  These are typically handled by the station or unit commander.  By way of example, a complaint about a trooper writing an individual a ticket, or a complaint that a trooper was speeding on the highway normally would be handled by the station or unit commander.  More serious allegations, as determined by the Commissioner, are opened as formal internal affairs investigations.  In the case of an allegation of misconduct that consists of criminal conduct, the internal investigation typically is stayed pending the conclusion of a criminal investigation and/or prosecution by appropriate prosecutorial authorities.  Once an internal affairs investigation is complete, the Commissioner determines what disciplinary action, if any, is appropriate and should be imposed.  The entire case is then reviewed by the State Police Advisory Commission to ensure appropriate action has been taken.

 

Vermont law requires that all internal investigations “shall be confidential” except in very limited circumstances.  Thus, specific details regarding these 2018 investigations cannot be made public.  Moreover, Internal Affairs investigations mostly deal with conduct that may or may not result in disciplinary action being taken against an employee, ranging from no discipline up to and including removal from service.   In essence, many of the matters SPAC deals with are personnel matters to which the employee has a right to privacy.  Police officers often are falsely accused of misconduct and are cleared after an internal affairs investigation.  In such circumstances, the law recognizes the officer’s right to privacy.  

 

SPAC meetings are generally held bi-monthly and are open to the public (except when SPAC is in executive session).  Meeting dates can be found on the DPS website by clicking the SPAC link under “Committees and Boards.”

 

 

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