WCAX.COM Local Vermont News, Weather and Sports-Woman Denies Abuse Charges

Woman Denies Abuse Charges

Burlington, Vermont -- June 19, 2003

A Burlington woman accused of letting her two children live in totally filthy conditions answered criminal charges today. The case has involved several state and local agencies that are still trying to unravel an explanation

The owner of the house, 45-year old Ellen Norton, appeared in Vermont district court to face two cruelty charges and a third charge of abuse of a vulnerable adult. Norton denied charges that she abused her two children, a pre-teen son identified by the initials C.F., and young adult son, Andrew Norton. Officials say the older son can't speak, is legally blind, developmentally disabled and requires intense daily care, including help with basic functions.

A week ago Wednesday, city officials issued an emergency health order and boarded up the house. The state took custody of the kids. "The scenario itself obviously is very disturbing on its face," police lieutenant Walter Decker told Channel 3. Decker said investigators found that both children had lived in squalor -- that the disabled son slept on bedding on the bare floor, which was found covered with excrement and that even more excrement was spread on the walls. Investigators found bars placed over the windows from the inside to prevent Andrew from getting out.

Decker says the criminal charges are just the beginning. "Right now there are just under half a dozen different agencies investigating, he said, "our department, the fire marshal, adult protective services, code enforcement, social and rehabilitation services -- (all) trying to get a better handle on exactly what was going on in the residence."

Judge James Cruccitti released Norton without bail. Afterward she denied the allegations to Channel 3, stating, "There's an incredible story that goes with this, and it's not what it appears. That's all I can tell you."

Norton works for the Community Justice Center, an arm of Burlington city government that works with people who run afoul of the law. The city's human resources department said she's been placed on paid administrative leave, but did not say if she would face discipline or dismissal if she's convicted.

Norton said she will try to get her children back, but that issue will be dealt with by family court.

Andy Potter, Channel 3 news.