Following an investigation that began in early August, the Vermont State Police on Friday, Oct. 21, cited John Grismore, 49, of Fairfax on a charge of simple assault arising from his conduct with a man in custody at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, which employed Grismore at the time as a captain.

Investigation by the Vermont State Police determined that two members of the Sheriff’s Department, Deputies Karry Andileigh and Christopher Major, had arrested Jeremy Burrows, 42, of Winooski on the afternoon of Aug. 7 at the home of a relative in Franklin County. Burrows was taken for processing to the Sheriff’s Department, where Grismore was working. While at the facility, Burrows, who was intoxicated, became non-compliant despite being handcuffed and shackled, and had fallen while trying to walk away from a bench where he was secured. While Deputies Andileigh and Major worked to control Burrows, Grismore repeatedly kicked Burrows in the midsection. The deputies subsequently expressed concerns about the use of force and reported the incident to their chain of command. Sheriff Roger Langevin on Aug. 11, requested the Vermont State Police open an investigation.

As part of the investigation, the Vermont State Police reviewed body-camera footage and conducted interviews with the involved parties. Upon completion, the case was reviewed by Grand Isle County State’s Attorney Douglas DiSabito after the Franklin County State’s Attorney’s Office recused itself from the matter. This week, following review of the case materials submitted by the Vermont State Police, SA DiSabito determined that probable cause existed to charge Grismore with simple assault.

Grismore was cited through his attorney on Friday morning, Oct. 21. His arraignment is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 24, in the Criminal Division of Vermont Superior Court in St. Albans.

The Vermont State Police is unable to provide further information at this time. The affidavit of probable cause will be filed with the court and made public following Grismore’s arraignment. Members of the media should call the Court Clerk’s Office to confirm details of the hearing.