Vermont
Former Deputy Sheriff Charged with Obstruction Related to Murder Case
The former Lamoille County sheriff’s deputy pleaded not guilty this week to three felony charges, with at least one of them directly related to the Seth Brunell trial. Read the story on VTDigger here: Ex-deputy accused of short-circuiting murder trial…
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Local residents may be concerned about recent legal developments involving a former Lamoille County deputy sheriff, Christopher Turner, who has been indicted on three felony charges. This follows allegations that he improperly questioned a murder suspect during transport.
Details of the Indictment
Turner, 43, from Johnson, entered a not guilty plea on Wednesday, June 1, 2025, in Lamoille County Superior Court in Hyde Park. He faces two counts of obstruction of justice and one count of false swearing. According to the indictment, only one charge pertains to the trial of Seth Brunell, accused of murdering Fern Feather, a resident of Hinesburg.
Background on the Case
The grand jury returned the indictment in April 2025, with the details becoming public this week. Turner’s attorney, Leonard Milligan III, stated that they are still gathering information regarding the allegations and intend to vigorously defend against them. Milligan emphasized, “We intend to vigorously defend the allegations in the courtroom,” and requested patience from the public as the case unfolds.
Implications for the Murder Trial
These charges come after Brunell’s trial, which began in April 2025 and concluded with a plea deal after concerns arose about Turner’s conduct during transport. Brunell’s attorney argued that Turner’s questioning violated her client’s rights, prompting a mistrial request. Brunell eventually accepted a plea deal for a lesser charge of manslaughter, resulting in no additional prison time and his release on probation.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
- Charges: Two counts of obstruction of justice, one count of false swearing.
- Next Hearing: Scheduled for August 3, 2025.
- Current Status: Turner is released with conditions, including notifying the court of his address.
Lamoille County Sheriff Roger Marcoux confirmed that Turner has been terminated from his position. Grand jury indictments in Vermont are uncommon and are often reserved for significant cases, reflecting the serious nature of the allegations against Turner.
As this case continues to develop, local residents will be watching closely, particularly given its ties to a high-profile murder trial that has already affected the community.
Based on reporting originally published by VTDigger. Read the original story.
