Public Safety
Coventry shooting
The fatal shooting of a border patrol agent in Coventry in January 2025 led VTDigger’s reporters to help uncover a dark network of people known by some as “the Zizians.” Authorities have tied the group to a half-dozen homicides around the country.

As feds tighten Covid vaccine rules, Vermont works to maintain access
Pharmacies can provide boosters to individuals who qualify, but the state is awaiting a looming CDC recommendation to better understand what government insurance can cover.
Vermont confirms state’s 1st case of Jamestown Canyon virus in humans
The state advises protecting against mosquito bites as summer comes to a close.
U.S. attorney general to decide whether to seek death penalty for double slaying in Vermont
A federal prosecutor told a judge Monday in the case against Theodore Bland that they are waiting on a decision from Pamela Bondi on whether to pursue his execution.
For Vermont survivors of orphanage abuse, the restorative justice process is over. The journey is not.
“For some, this will complete their healing,” one said at the dedication of a memorial at Burlington’s shuttered St. Joseph’s Orphanage. “For others, there’s still much to do.”
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New 3-year contract aims to better attract and retain Burlington police officers
Police union members called it a strong contract that will help rebuild morale and staffing in the Burlington Police Department.
Teresa Youngblut denies murder charge, other offenses, in fatal shooting of border patrol agent
Youngblut’s appearance Friday afternoon was the first court hearing since prosecutors filed upgraded charges last month against the former Seattle resident, which carry the possibility of the death penalty.