Vermont courts report 6% rise in case backlog amid rising probation violations

A significant backlog in Vermont's criminal justice system was a focal point during the Senate Appropriations meeting on March 12, 2025. Officials reported a troubling 7% increase in cases for fiscal year 2024, with Chittenden County alone experiencing a staggering 20% rise, accounting for 39% of the state's total caseload. This surge is compounded by a dramatic 60% increase in probation violations, raising concerns about the system's capacity to manage these growing numbers.

The meeting highlighted the challenges posed by a backlog that began at over 14,000 cases last June. While there was a slight drop in the backlog, the latest data indicates that only 4 out of 14 counties made progress in clearing cases, with larger counties losing ground. The statewide clearance rate for February was reported at just 89%, meaning the system is struggling to keep up with incoming cases.

Officials noted that the increase in probation violations may stem from a renewed focus on enforcement as the pandemic's restrictions ease. This shift has led to a backlog of cases that were previously overlooked, creating a bottleneck in the system. The discussion underscored the urgent need for strategies to address the backlog and improve the efficiency of the criminal justice process in Vermont.