Newton allegedly abused a women. The Addison County sheriff denied resigning during his arraignment. Newton pled not guilty to all four allegations. Two instances of s*xual assault, illegal restraint, and domestic violence are listed. Newton may get life in jail on these counts. The victim said Newton acted “above anybody” because he was sheriff. The victim feared coming forward because of Newton’s high-ranking law enforcement position, according to a 10-page complaint.
Peter Newton says he’s being slandered.
Newton was arrested for “domestic disturbance” in February. Middlebury, Vermont resident reported the incident. A Vermont State Police spokeswoman said the agency started investigating and arrested Newton on June 28. Since his arrest, calls for him to resign have grown. During the hearing, Peter Newton’s attorney Jason Sawyer said the sheriff was “duly elected” and would happily perform administrative tasks. Newton reportedly said he wouldn’t seek re-election and that his “excellent character” is being harmed.
An affidavit against him cited a YouTube video he uploaded after being investigated. Newton said he was “suicidal” but “excellent at putting up a nice face” Newton has been posting on Facebook about his contracting firm, which he hopes to run after 2023.
Newton is a predator, says victim
The accuser contacted Newton in May 2021 and needed assistance with an abusive partner. Newton allegedly promised to protect her and her children. Over time, the alleged sheriff sought to manipulate the lady by serving her alcoholic beverages. VTdigger alleged that he would then copulate with her while she was unconscious.
The lady remarked on his conduct and her fear:
“He has firearms. Predator. This person abuses authority. The whole sheriff’s department knows he exploited his position to recruit women. They understood.”
WPTZ reports that Peter Newton is out on a $100,000 unsecured bail and can’t do his job. The 50-year-old must also remain 300 feet away from the alleged victim. He can only be sheriff in Vermont.