By Guy Page
A well-known repeat offender in Burlington has been found incompetent to stand trial, according to a recent court decision. The ruling was based on an expert’s evaluation of Michael Reynolds, a man with a long history of criminal charges.
Reynolds has been a frequent subject of police reports and news coverage. Authorities say he has accumulated nearly 1800 police interactions and 200 charges, resulting in close to 50 convictions over the years.
According to a WCAX report, the latest court ruling pertains to a misdemeanor assault charge from earlier this year. Last week, a judge accepted findings that Reynolds is not competent to face trial for that charge.
Court documents indicate that his attorney is currently working on securing him a placement at the Brattleboro Retreat, a mental health facility. The move could provide an alternative path for addressing his legal and mental health challenges outside the traditional judicial system.
Another hearing in the case is expected to take place next month, where further decisions regarding Reynolds’ future may be made.
If Reynolds doesn’t secure a bed at a mental heath treatment facility, he may well be turned out to the street. A Vermont state’s attorney (not Chittenden County) told VDC today that suspects found not competent to stand trial are often quietly released back into the community.
Authorities and community members alike continue to grapple with concerns surrounding repeat offenders and mental health treatment in Vermont’s legal system.