Vermont impeachment committee holds first meeting

Published: May. 23, 2023 at 3:25 PM EDT
Email This Link
Share on Pinterest
Share on LinkedIn

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) - Vermont’s impeachment investigation into Franklin County’s two top elected law enforcement officials is underway.

The special seven-member legislative committee looking into whether to impeach State’s Attorney John Lavoie and Sheriff John Grismore met for the first time Tuesday to discuss rules and constitutional procedures. They will also likely hire a special investigator to assist them with their work.

“It definitely shows that it’s different than our normal committee work. But I think it was a very serious discussion in how we can do this right and how we’re going to do a thorough job with this,” said Rep. Martin LaLonde, D-South Burlington.

A recent report by the Department of State’s Attorneys and Sheriffs showed that Lavoie allegedly made racist and sexist comments toward employees. Grismore was caught on surveillance video shoving a handcuffed detainee with his foot last summer.

Both men have declined to step down so lawmakers are exploring impeachment.

Related Stories:

Vt. Special Committee on Impeachment set to meet next week

Vermont Legislature’s impeachment committee to meet over the summer

Vt. impeachment committee named

Special committee formed to investigate impeaching 2 Franklin County officials

How do Franklin County voters feel about pending impeachment probe?

Vt. Legislature to launch impeachment investigations of Franklin County officials

Prosecutor harassment allegations add urgency to oversight bills

Facing calls for impeachment, Franklin County state’s attorney says he’s not stepping down

Grismore sworn in as lawmakers begin sheriff restructuring discussions

Incoming Franklin County Sheriff back in court for assault case

Vermont State Police investigating finances of Franklin County Sheriff-elect

Judge cancels restraining orders against Sheriff

Gov. Scott, lawmakers call for sheriff to resign in wake of sex charges