by VDC staff
A convicted sex offender with a history of violent offenses and parole violations has been released again into the community, this time to the town of Milton.
According to a statement from the Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations, on Tuesday, August 5, the Vermont Parole Board released Christopher Edwards, 37, from a State Correctional Facility. He will now be supervised by the St. Albans Probation & Parole office.
Edwards was first convicted at age 20 for sexually assaulting an intoxicated 15-year-old girl. He was later convicted of sexually assaulting a second intoxicated 15-year-old girl. Despite repeated incarceration, officials say Edwards has struggled to comply with parole conditions and has continued to commit violent crimes.
The Vermont Department of Corrections has assessed Edwards as being in the high-risk category for both general and sexual recidivism, compared to other incarcerated sex offenders. Based on his pattern of offending, officials believe that if he were to re-offend, the likely victim would be an intoxicated or otherwise vulnerable adolescent female—possibly someone known to him.
Edwards is currently residing in the town of Milton.
Authorities are encouraging residents to be aware and to report any suspicious behavior.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault—regardless of when it occurred—confidential help and support is available. Free advocacy, medical care, and counseling are available statewide.
For help, call the 24/7 confidential hotline at 800-489-7273, or visit the Vermont Network Against Sexual and Domestic Violence at http://www.vtnetwork.org.