Vermont State Senator Terry Williams Faces Assault Charge
The Republican state senator from Rutland County was arrested following a reported domestic assault in Poultney.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Sex Crimes
Vermont State Police arrested 74-year-old state senator Terry Williams on a misdemeanor domestic assault charge. The incident allegedly occurred on Monday, leading authorities to process Williams at the Rutland state police barracks.
Why it matters
The arrest comes days before Williams is scheduled to stand for re-election on Tuesday. He currently remains held at the Rutland jail on $500 bail pending his upcoming court appearance.
Terry Williams is currently held at the Rutland jail on $500 bail following his arrest. He is scheduled for an arraignment on the misdemeanor charge on Wednesday at 12:30 p.m.
The players
Terry Williams
A 74-year-old Republican state senator representing Rutland County who has served in the legislature since 2022.
Vermont State Police
The state law enforcement agency responsible for investigating criminal activity and maintaining public safety across Vermont.
The details
State police investigated a report of a domestic assault in Poultney that was received at 5:40 p.m. on Tuesday. Evidence gathered by investigators indicated that the senator caused pain and injury to a household member.
Timeline
The alleged domestic assault took place on Monday.
State police received the assault report on Tuesday at 5:40 p.m.
The court arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday at 12:30 p.m.
The senator is facing re-election on Tuesday.
Legal Context
This case follows established protocols under the Vermont Statutes Annotated regarding domestic assault charges for handling misdemeanor offenses. Such proceedings reflect the broader legal standard for processing public officials accused of domestic violence in the state.
Residents in Rutland County may see continued activity at the local jail and courthouse regarding this ongoing case. No specific safety advisories have been issued to the general public following the arrest.
The takeaway
The arrest of an active legislator on domestic assault charges creates uncertainty for voters ahead of the upcoming election. Citizens should monitor local court proceedings for updates regarding the status of the legal case.
What happens next
Terry Williams is scheduled for an arraignment on Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. Additionally, the senator is facing a scheduled re-election on Tuesday.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings, visit the Sex Crimes section.
