Wright allegedly threatened to intentionally cause a car crash with the former judge to attempt to show he drives intoxicated. A copy of the complaint is available here. Doucette commented following the release of multiple police . Winds light and variable. He must appear at any scheduled hearings in Windham County or face a violation of release. Bennington Police investigate reports of shots fired Chance of snow 90%.. Wright faces a maximum six-months in jail and a $250 fine, if convicted on the count. Temps nearly steady in the mid 30s. Sgt. Ensure that all voices are welcomed and heard. Troopers report they found a Chevrolet Silverado with significant . BENNINGTON A well-known local Bennington man was arrested late Thursday evening after he allegedly attempted to break into the Bennington Courthouse by punching in different codes in the keypad security system. Vermont State Police and the Bennington County Sheriffs Department also responded to the incident. Nobody was hurt during this investigation and it is believed at this time there is no threat to the public. Police arrested Austin Mayhew on January 14, and he ultimately admitted to being one of the two robbers. He then begins kicking the door and, getting no response, begins punching in numbers in an attempt to gain entry. VSP News Releases Headquarters | 45 State Drive | Waterbury, VT 05671 | 802-241-5000 The Vermont State Police disseminates news releases for significant criminal or public safety incidents and arrests. Police investigate shooting in Bennington, Northern New York woman killed in 2-vehicle crash. Low 29F. Lake Champlain Chocolates is hosting a free chocolate demo this afternoon from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Burlington. Bennington - AP NEWS Occasional snow showers. Chance of snow 40%. Press Releases; Top Stories. Chance of snow 70%.. Contact Tiffany Tan . These releases are not intended to document every public contact or response to a call-for-service. According to the police affidavit in the case, on March 1, Wright Jr. posted a video on social media of himself entering a code into an employee door of the Bennington Courthouse after the building was closed. by: Courtney Ward. VSP News Releases: Shaftsbury Barracks/ Serious Injury Crash BENNINGTON, Vt. Bennington, Vt., Police have released the name of the individual who fell to their death off the Chapel Road-Route 279 overpass on Feb. 20. According to a posting by the Bennington Police Department, they responded immediately and determined the reports were false. The male operator of the vehicle, Bradley J. Jelley was located outside the vehicle with suspected serious injuries. Investigations are ongoing. 2 Bennington residents arrested after search turns up firearms, drugs VSP News Releases: Shaftsbury Barracks/ DUI #1, Negligent Operation, Possession of Stolen Property VSP News Releases Headquarters | 45 State Drive | Waterbury, VT 05671 | 802-241-5000 The Vermont State Police disseminates news releases for significant criminal or public safety incidents and arrests. BENNINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - A suspect is on the run after a shooting in Bennington and police say he is considered armed and dangerous. The device was found by property management personnel who were doing work at the residence. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please, We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by, Local man arrested for attempted break-in at courthouse, Southern Vermont Arts Center high school student art show reception postponed because of weather, Court deems River Bend Market assault suspect fit for trial, Fire destroys home on Northside Drive this morning, Support our journalism. The deceased is Elton Dowd, 19, of Fitchburg. ACLU of Vermont Staff Attorney Hillary Rich: No one should be subjected to the dishonest and coercive tactics that John Chinnici experienced at the hands of Bennington police. A traffic stop was conducted and the operator of the vehicle, Geoffrey Sauer was taken into custody for DUI #1, Negligent Operation, and Possession of Stolen Property. Bennington Police Department leadership should, whenever appropriate, educate the Bennington community on policies and procedures, practices, and incidents to further understanding of policing dynamics, advance transparency, and to enhance Bennington community-police engagement. Home Page | Vermont State Police This responsibility includes listening and weighing outcomes of potential decisions and policies. They say the car hit Monday is. As of Monday evening, it was unclear whether the suspect has already been charged or when he might appear in court. BPD continued pushing Mayhew to incriminate Mr. Chinnici, ignoring Mayhews invocation of Miranda rights and promising him leniency. You . As a result, there needs to be continued alignment between the Bennington Police Department and the Bennington County State's Attorney's Office to ensure agreement on the enforcement and prosecution of criminal offenses. On the above date and time, the Vermont State Police-Shaftsbury Barracks was made aware of a possible assault that occurred in the Town of Arlington, VT. Further investigation revealed that Williams had assaulted West causing an injury to his face. He had the gun. He is charged with one count of attempted unlawful trespass into a building, a misdemeanor. Not you. After sustained pressure by BPD, Mr. Mayhew falsely identified Mr. Chinnici as his accompliceapproximately 30 minutes after Mr. Chinni had already been arrested. Police found a female victim on the ground just off of the walkway suffering from a significant laceration, Doucette said. Vermont State Police (@VTStatePolice) / Twitter Officers searching the night of the crash with a K-9 unit reported hearing branches breaking in the woods near a 10-foot wildlife fence and called out, saying, Bennington Police K-9 unit. Federal money bound for Burlington Airport to fund terminal expansion Updated : Feb. 28 . The driver then fled the scene on foot running south into the wooded area, police said they were told, and that the driver appeared to be intoxicated. These releases are not intended to document every public contact or response to a call-for-service. Published: Nov. 14, 2020 at 6:34 AM PST. Hager told police at the crash scene that Hecks vehicle had passed several vehicles and he was behind it traveling east on Route 279. Local man arrested for attempted break-in at courthouse. After an attempt was made to locate Wright, an arrest warrant was issued. While speaking with Riendeau indicators of impairment were observed. Bennington Police looking for men who allegedly robbed store BENNINGTON, Vt. (AP) A Bennington man is suing the town, its police chief and two officers, accusing them of violating his constitutional rights by arresting him in the 2016 armed robbery. If you have a question regarding an incident or case, please contact your local state police. Heck also had a conceal carry firearms permit from the state of Florida, where the Nissan was registered, and was seen taking something from his vehicle before running from the crash scene before police arrived. Snow showers. Press Releases Crime and Justice Shaftsbury man sues Vermont State Police for $25 million, alleging troopers assaulted him By Ethan Weinstein Jan 18 2022 Vermont State Police Trooper. Shaftsbury man sues Vermont State Police for $25 million - VTDigger Lawsuit Challenges Rights Violations by Bennington Police Officials, ACLU of Vermont Staff Attorney Hillary Rich, : No one should be subjected to the dishonest and coercive tactics that John Chinnici experienced at the hands of Bennington police. Bennington Police have been. of Ballston Spa, New York, police said in a news release. They also checked with Southwestern Vermont Medical Center but were told he had not been treated there. Police say a male suspect in the shooting is cooperating with the investigation and that there is no danger to the public. You have permission to edit this article. 'Energetic destructive device' found at house in Bennington, Vt BENNINGTON, Vt. . Ralph Wright Jr., 64, was arraigned at the same courthouse he attempted to break into. Hager told police that he passed Hecks vehicle, which then began high-beaming him a number of times before speeding up and passing him, police reported. Healing of the community means healing of all. The week-long camp is a great way for kids to learn new skills while doing fun activities and building positive relationships. Police did speak to the contact on Sunday, Jan. 10, and were told they had not seen Heck since Friday morning. The Vermont State Police disseminates news releases for significant criminal or public safety incidents and arrests. The incident is the first reported homicide case in Bennington or the county this year. Police say there is no danger to the public, and no one has been reported injured. We interviewed our tech expert, Jaime Vazquez, to learn more about accessible smart home devices. Both vehicles had been travelling east shortly after 6 p.m. from Hoosick, N.Y., into Bennington. BPD releases officer reports on Heck crash, aftermath. Wright, the son of prominent Bennington legislator Ralph Wright, who served in the . A New York State Police Aviation Unit helicopter located an area of interest off Route 279 that led to discovery of the body that morning. Like us on Facebook. Additional factors, he said, include other drivers who witnessed what was described as a road rage incident on Route 279 on Jan. 8. Driver hospitalized after Bennington car crash. Police investigate an area of the Walloomsac River pathway in Bennington on Monday. Wright faces a maximum six months in jail and a $250 fine, if convicted on the count. The report was commissioned after revelations that Bennington officials withheld relevant evidence from then-Attorney General T.J. Donovans investigation into racial harassment of then-local resident and state legislator Kiah Morris, as well as multiple Vermont Supreme Court decisions concerning unlawful BPD traffic stops of Black motorists. BENNINGTON Two town residents were arrested Thursday after police said they found a semi-automatic rifle and handgun along with suspected illegal drugs and thousands in cash during an investigation. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time. Riendeau was released to a sober party. VSP News Releases: Shaftsbury Barracks / DUI #2 Yesterday morning, hours before Mr. Chinnici filed his lawsuit, the Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony on proposed, legislation to curtail the use of misleading tactics. Police were granted a search warrant and rendered the scene safe at around 5 p.m. VSP News Releases: Shaftsbury Barracks/ DUI #1, Negligent Operation The search had been suspended on Friday night, according to the reports, because of darkness, the cold, the loss of the scent track, and not knowing if the male had a weapon.. Anthony Union High School. Bennington Police are investigating a shooting late Saturday night. These releases are not intended to document every public contact or response to a call-for-service. The cloth was found near the wildlife fence and what appeared to be blood on the fence where it was believed Heck had scaled it. . Bennington Banner Compliments of: The Bennington Banner Tenets of the Bennington Police Department - Moving Forward. Trio of Vermonters accused of kidnapping, assault - NEWS10 ABC Bennington Police identify the deceased in Route 279 overpass incident BENNINGTON, Vt. (NEWS10) Vermont State Police are reporting the arrest of Max Misch, 38, of Bennington for violating the conditions of his release. He also told police he did not know Heck to be someone who would drink and drive, according to the reports. Not you. After sustained pressure by BPD, Mr. Mayhew falsely identified Mr. Chinnici as his accompliceapproximately 30 minutes. You have permission to edit this article. It also has not identified the female victim. BENNINGTON - Bennington Police Chief Paul Doucette tests his skills against the third grade class at Monument Elementary School on Friday morning during a game of "Are you smarter than a third grader?". The Vermont State Police disseminates news releases for significant criminal or public safety incidents and arrests. Bennington Police Department press release Jan. 11, 2021 The Oscars will air on ABC and can be streamed on ABC.com and the ABC app as well as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, AT&T TV or FuboTV. These releases are not intended to document every public contact or response to a call-for-service. Planned Parenthood to close 5 centers in north New England. Police say Patrick Mullinnex, 38, of Springfield,. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. . Headquarters | 45 State Drive | Waterbury, VT 05671 | 802-241-5000, RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper C. Shepley, INCIDENT LOCATION: US Route 7 Shaftsbury/Sunderland VT, VIOLATION: DUI #1, Negligent Operation, Possession of Stolen Property. According to police, the device was confirmed to be an energetic destructive device. the court. Contrary to social media reports, no bomb or explosive device was involved in the attack, Doucette said. The Commission specifically looked at how to make systematic improvements and enhance coordination between police, judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and correctional authorities to increase the ability to prevent and control crime, prevent unnecessary incarceration, serve the victims of crime, and improve community-police engagement. The Advocates recognize the departments forward thinking and action to reduce their carbon footprint by purchasing hybrid vehicles and their growing e-bike program. the court. BENNINGTON Police Chief Paul Doucette said Wednesday that he will stand by the actions of his officers following the Jan. 8 rollover crash of a pickup being driven by Hans Heck, who left the scene and was found three days later in a wooded area, having died of hypothermia. If the Bennington County State's Attorney's Office and the Vermont Judiciary are disconnected from the Bennington Police Department, and/or the laws they are enforcing, the public loses faith in the police. . And there could be questions about where Heck became intoxicated, Doucette said, noting that he was reported to have been at the Man of Kent Tavern on Route 7 in Hoosick, N.Y., earlier that day. Ensure that the fundamental principle of the Bennington Police Department . Yesterday morning, hours before Mr. Chinnici filed his lawsuit, the Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony on proposed legislation to curtail the use of misleading tactics in police interrogations. Ultimately, the state legislature will have to decide how much longer it will tolerate these kinds of abuses before taking corrective actions to reimagine public safety and policing in Vermont.. The Bennington Police Department was the first chartered municipal police department in the. Jim Therrien writes for New England Newspapers in Southern Vermont. SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: ON the above date and time, Vermont State Police were advised of a be on the lookout for a Dorr Oil truck which was being operated all over the roadway on US Route 7 in the Town of Shaftsbury. News - wcax.com Police: Arrest made in Bennington killing. DEC: Anglers hoard panfish in catch and release area, Bennington restaurant closing after 16 years, Best athletic wear for kids joining baseball and, How to watch all the Oscar-nominated movies in style, Best smart home devices for older users, according, Crossgates Mall opening at noon due to weather, Chatham sinks game-winner to win section title, Duanesburg tops Hoosic Valley to win section title, Snow begins falling in Capital Region during latest, Projections show Social Security fund running dry, Judge rules against herbicide in Lake George, Retired racehorses rescue first responders, Gillibrand talks veteran aid in Glens Falls, NYSP: One dead in fatal industrial accident in Herkimer, 03/03/2023: Significant winter storm tonight, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Shortly after the incident, someone ignited fireworks in the area of Depot Street, he explained. Bennington, Vt., Police identify the deceased in Route 279 overpass One driver traveling in the same direction on Jan. 8 told police the Heck vehicle earlier passed several vehicles in the breakdown lane at speeds the witness estimated at up to 100 mph, before then slowing to almost a complete stop and almost causing a crash. According to a Vermont State Police news release, Patrick Mullinnex, the deceased victim in Wednesday's shooting on Pleasant Street in . BENNINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Police are investigating after a suspicious explosive device was found inside a home in Bennington on Thursday. Riendeau was transported to the Shaftsbury barracks where she was processed and issued a citation to appear in Bennington Superior Court Criminal Division to answer to the charge of DUI #2 on 3-13-23 at 0815 hours. A similar proposal was one of many police reforms opposed and defeated by law enforcement leaders last year. BENNINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Bennington Police are investigating a shooting late Saturday night. Preliminary investigation revealed that Jelley's vehicle was travelling East on Burgess Road when the vehicle exited the south side of the roadway for unknown reasons. ign up to be in the camp is usually in April or May until filled. A similar proposal was one of many police reforms opposed and defeated by law enforcement leaders last year. Please note news releases are available on this blog for 30 days following their public release. Like us on Facebook. In a follow-up report on Feb. 2, Harrington said he had talked with Bombard by phone about Hecks demeanor while at the Man of Kent Jan. 8. Headquarters | 45 State Drive | Waterbury, VT 05671 | 802-241-5000, RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Colin Shepley, CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Bennington, Vermont. On that Sunday, police also reported speaking with Bombard, owner of the Man of Kent. Police say at about 9:15 a.m., people working at. Anyone with information regarding this crash is encouraged to contact Trooper Shepley at the above listed phone number. BENNINGTON Police said a male suspect has been arrested in a killing in downtown Bennington on Monday. A second device was located inside the residence but also determined not to be destructive. The same year the IACP issued its findings and reform recommendations, the ACLU, against BPD, while another caseinvolving, city officials retaliation against an interracial family. Low 29F. Despite the employees contrary description, Mayhews refusal to name his accomplice, and no evidence connecting Mr. Chinnici with the robbery, Doucette arrested Mr. Chinnici without probable cause. Before his arraignment, Judge Kerry McDonald-Cady, in a court-ordered motion, transferred the case to Windham County, as Scanlon and James Colvin are witnesses referenced in the affidavit and are retired judges that have presided in Bennington County. Bennington Police Department leaders and officers need to be able to speak about potential outcomes to operational changes. Updated: Feb 28, 2023 / 01:19 PM EST. Three Bennington residents arrested in two separate drug busts Vermont schools, N.H. Walmarts receive apparent hoax threats Posted: Feb 27, 2023 / 10:10 PM EST. The decisions and practices of the Bennington County State's Attorney's Office, The Vermont Attorney General's Office and the Vermont Judiciary directly impact public safety, particularly the trust and confidence the community has in the Bennington Police Department. In a follow-up interview on Feb. 1, Hager told police he was going from Hoosick Falls, N.Y., to Home Depot in Bennington prior to the crash. Contact: Stephanie Gomory, [email protected], 802-223-6304 x111 MONTPELIER, Vt. - The ACLU filed a lawsuit yesterday on behalf of John Chinnici, who was unlawfully arrested, interrogated, and searched by Bennington police after they repeatedly pressured multiple witnesses and suspects to name Mr. Chinnici as an accomplice in a January 2016 armed . SUMMARY OF CRASH: On the above date and time, Vermont State Police were dispatched to a one car motor vehicle crash with ejection on Burgess Road in the Town of Woodford. News releases include information about arrests and citations, reports about homicides and other major criminal investigations, traffic incidents such as crashes and enforcement, and any incident that could have public impact or be of public interest. Winds light and variable. who were targeted by BPDis currently pending at the Human Rights Commission. Smith & Wesson handgun, and said a conceal carry gun permit from the state of Florida was inside the wallet. Elected and appointed officials are responsible for facilitating this process, ensuring thoughtful changes are implemented, and owning the outcome. The illegally obtained evidence was then used against Mr. Chinnici at trial. . Officers said they then began patrolling overnight on roads around the area trying to locate the driver. Many police agencies throughout the United States have implemented community-focused police approaches and have policies, procedures and practices in place that emphasize the duty of care as well as strict policies and procedures around police tactics to ensure the well-being and safety of the community and officers. Alleged white supremacist arrested for violating conditions of release BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Let's take a look at what to do this Saturday. Develop an objective and clearly established evaluation process for the Bennington Police Department based on shared, understood expectations. Complaints against members of the Bennington Police Department must receive thorough, timely, transparent, and objective investigation to determine the validity of the complaint, root cause of failure and work towards improvement. The bill as introduced would be limited to interrogations of juveniles, though the ACLU is urging that its scope be broadened to prevent more abuses like those experienced by Mr. Chinnici from occurring. Wright makes many posts on social media in which he can be observed harassing police officers, members of the media and court employees. However, as communities, elected officials, appointed officials and the Bennington Police Department are developing new and innovative approaches to public safety, the focus should expand beyond just policies and procedures to include both the broader criminal justice and public health ecosystems: Maximize available, thoughtful resources, similar to the process for recommendations from the Commission of Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice. Police release identities of Bennington homicide victim, suspect Subscribe today. VSP News Releases Headquarters | 45 State Drive | Waterbury, VT 05671 | 802-241-5000 The Vermont State Police disseminates news releases for significant criminal or public safety incidents and arrests. Vermont State Police have arrested two people in connection with stolen firearms from a Waterbury gun shop. Wright, the son of prominent Bennington legislator Ralph Wright, who served in the Vermont House of Representatives and served as speaker, has become well-known around town for videotaping people and officials, and calling himself a reporter. Multiple people arrested in Bennington drug bust - NEWS10 ABC Snow this morning will transition to snow showers this afternoon. the court. Harrington reported that Bombard said he last saw Heck around 4 p.m. the night of the crash.