Franklin County House calls for Sheriff John Grismore's resignation amid misconduct allegations
April 30, 2024 | HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative , Vermont
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The Vermont House of Representatives convened on April 30, 2024, to discuss House Resolution 18, which calls for the resignation of Franklin County Sheriff John Grismore. This resolution was treated as a bill and referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs, which recommended amendments as outlined in the day's calendar.
Representative McCarthy from St. Alban City presented the resolution, highlighting the work of a special committee on impeachment inquiry that had been established nearly a year prior. This committee investigated the conduct of Sheriff Grismore and another Franklin County official, leading to the resignation of the state's attorney. The committee's findings regarding Sheriff Grismore were significant, particularly concerning two serious issues.
The first issue involved the inappropriate use of force, which is currently under criminal trial and has resulted in the revocation of Grismore's law enforcement certification. Although the committee found no additional policy violations since Grismore took office, concerns were raised about his claims regarding the appropriateness of his actions, especially in light of video evidence that surfaced before the 2022 general election.
The second issue pertained to financial misconduct. The investigation revealed that Grismore had written multiple checks to himself, totaling over $16,000, which should have been contributed to the Vermont state employee's retirement system. This misconduct was not known to voters at the time of his election. Although the committee expressed serious concerns about these actions, it ultimately decided against recommending impeachment, citing the high bar for such actions and the uncertainty surrounding the case.
The resolution before the House seeks Grismore's resignation, emphasizing the need for accountability to the people of Franklin County. Representative McCarthy underscored the importance of respecting the democratic process while addressing the serious concerns regarding Grismore's conduct. The House is expected to take a position on the committee's report and recommendations in the coming sessions.
Representative McCarthy from St. Alban City presented the resolution, highlighting the work of a special committee on impeachment inquiry that had been established nearly a year prior. This committee investigated the conduct of Sheriff Grismore and another Franklin County official, leading to the resignation of the state's attorney. The committee's findings regarding Sheriff Grismore were significant, particularly concerning two serious issues.
The first issue involved the inappropriate use of force, which is currently under criminal trial and has resulted in the revocation of Grismore's law enforcement certification. Although the committee found no additional policy violations since Grismore took office, concerns were raised about his claims regarding the appropriateness of his actions, especially in light of video evidence that surfaced before the 2022 general election.
The second issue pertained to financial misconduct. The investigation revealed that Grismore had written multiple checks to himself, totaling over $16,000, which should have been contributed to the Vermont state employee's retirement system. This misconduct was not known to voters at the time of his election. Although the committee expressed serious concerns about these actions, it ultimately decided against recommending impeachment, citing the high bar for such actions and the uncertainty surrounding the case.
The resolution before the House seeks Grismore's resignation, emphasizing the need for accountability to the people of Franklin County. Representative McCarthy underscored the importance of respecting the democratic process while addressing the serious concerns regarding Grismore's conduct. The House is expected to take a position on the committee's report and recommendations in the coming sessions.
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