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A Shelburne man, Eric M. Shepard, is facing severe charges after allegedly attacking a man with a hatchet in Barre. Shepard, 55, has pleaded not guilty to attempted second-degree murder, aggravated assault, and retail theft. If convicted of attempted murder, he could face life imprisonment. The victim was found covered in blood, having been struck multiple times with a hammer and hatchet. Shepard was later found at a local Jiffy Mart, where he surrendered. He claims self-defense, stating the victim attacked him first. Shepard is currently on parole for previous burglary and robbery convictions.

Montpelier police tackle a mix of minor and serious incidents, from lost items to threats and burglaries. A bat in a fireplace, erratic driving, and aggressive behavior towards a dog add to the weeks unusual calls. Suspicious activity and vandalism also make headlines, as police keep the community safe.

The Washington Central School Board voted to close two elementary schools, a decision now up for special elections in February. The move aims to reduce the number of schools feeding into U-thirty-two Middle and High School from five to three. The boards vote was eight to five, following a lengthy and emotional meeting. Residents expressed strong opinions, with some frustrated and others acknowledging the potential for significant cuts if all five schools remained open. The board agreed it was time for voters to make the final decision, hoping the new three-school model will better serve students academically and socially.

Vermont Man Pleads Not Guilty to Hatchet Attack; Parole Violation Leads to Additional Jail Time

President Trumps executive order aims to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, potentially opening new doors for medical research. This move could impact how the cannabis industry is regulated and reduce its tax burden, despite not making recreational marijuana legal nationwide. The order also calls for more research and access to CBD, reflecting a growing public sentiment in favor of marijuana legalization.

Otter Valleys school board faces backlash over budget proposal, potentially cutting a middle school social studies teacher. Teacher Zachary Poynter and colleagues argue against the plan, citing counterproductive effects. Board explores options for pre-kindergarten consolidation and sixth-grade relocation, with a possible three-point-nine percent budget increase.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposes new rules to ban gender-affirming care for minors, cutting off federal funding. These proposals contradict major medical organizations recommendations and could lead to many hospitals ceasing such care due to intimidation and anticipation of federal action.

Burlington, Vermont, unveils a pioneering, twelve-bed shelter for unhoused adults seeking recovery from substance use. This drug and alcohol-free facility, managed by CVOEO, aims to address visible homelessness and open drug use. The shelter, classified as a level two recovery shelter, will offer low-barrier support and a clinician for one-on-one sessions. With furniture arriving next week and staff hiring underway, the shelter is set to open on February first, marking a significant step towards targeted support for recovery within the unhoused community.