Vermont Sheriffs’ Association calls on Grismore to resign

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – The Vermont Sheriffs’ Association is calling for the immediate resignation of embattled Franklin County Sheriff John Grismore.

The Vermont Criminal Justice Council last week voted to decertify Grismore in connection with an incident in which he kicked a handcuffed detainee in August 2022, before he was elected sheriff.

Monday, Windham County Sheriff Mark Anderson, the president of the Sheriffs’ Association, said Grismore should resign to restore public trust. Anderson says Grismore’s use of excessive force and the flaunting of responsibility for his actions have demonstrated his inability to provide the professional leadership necessary to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the office he was elected to uphold.

In a statement, Anderson said, in part: “In the best interest of fostering a positive and accountable environment, the Vermont Sheriff’s Association, after the release of the Vermont Criminal Justice Council findings urges Sheriff Grismore to put Franklin County and that of the State of Vermont’s needs before his own and step down immediately. It is time to allow for new leadership to rebuild public confidence to move Franklin County forward.”

Vermont lawmakers on Monday will hear testimony from several longtime sheriffs and Grismore about whether he can carry out his duty now that he has lost his law enforcement certification.

Related Stories:

Vt. lawmakers to discuss whether decertified sheriff can still perform his job

Franklin County sheriff decertified by Vt. Criminal Justice Council

Franklin County Sheriff certification deliberations expected by Dec. 6

Vt. Criminal Justice Council takes testimony in case of Franklin County Sheriff

Franklin County Sheriff impeachment investigation continues

Judge denies Sheriff Grismore’s motion to dismiss assault charge

Vermont impeachment committee holds first meeting

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 Seriff 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

Copyright 2023 WCAX. All rights reserved.