Court Rules Aryeh Moskowitz Stalked Burlington Mayor
A judge determined that the actions of Aryeh Moskowitz toward Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak constitute illegal stalking.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in City Hall
A Chittenden County court has ruled that Aryeh Moskowitz illegally stalked Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak. The court determined that Moskowitz's conduct was not protected by the First Amendment, concluding his actions would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety.
Why it matters
The ruling underscores the legal limits of public conduct and political speech by clarifying that persistent, intimidating behavior toward officials falls outside constitutional protections. It highlights the serious legal consequences for actions deemed to threaten an individual's personal safety.
The court issued a temporary order requiring Moskowitz to remain at least 6 feet away from the mayor. This final no-stalking order follows the court's rejection of Moskowitz's claim that his behavior was protected speech.
The players
Emma Mulvaney-Stanak
She is the Mayor of Burlington who sought the no-stalking order after being followed on multiple occasions.
Aryeh Moskowitz
He is the individual found by the court to have engaged in illegal stalking behavior toward the mayor.
Shawn Burke
He serves as the Interim Police Chief in Burlington and provided testimony regarding the suspect's behavior.
The details
During a June incident, the mayor was forced to hide in a bakery bathroom for 15 to 20 minutes after being followed from a restaurant. A witness also intervened during an earlier confrontation on Pine Street, while Interim Police Chief Shawn Burke testified that Moskowitz laughed about his interactions with the mayor.
Timeline
In June 2026, the stalking incidents occurred including an encounter involving the police chief.
In September 2026, Moskowitz published an op-ed in the Washington Examiner.
On October 22, 2026, the Chittenden County court ruled that Moskowitz illegally stalked the mayor.
Political Context
The ruling provides a definitive legal boundary between protected political expression and criminal conduct. Opponents of this interpretation might argue that such court decisions could potentially be misused to chill legitimate critique or protests against local officials.
This decision reaffirms the legal safety mechanisms available to public officials and residents in Burlington when faced with persistent harassment. It establishes a clear standard for what constitutes unacceptable behavior in public spaces within the community.
The takeaway
This case serves as a reminder that legal protections for free speech do not extend to actions that threaten the safety or well-being of others. Residents should be aware that persistent, unwanted following of individuals can result in court-ordered distance mandates.
Further reading
For more information on local governance and judicial proceedings, visit the City Hall section.
