Bennington, VT News
Ryan Ouimet Dorset Quarry Suspect Arrested at Canadian Border
Federal authorities arrested Ryan J. Ouimet of Averill Park at the Canadian border on a Vermont warrant. He faces felony charges following an investigation by the Vermont State Police Shaftsbury barracks into an incident at the Dorset Quarry.
Our local swimming holes should always feel safe for our families and children. Therefore, news of an arrest involving a popular local landmark brings relief to many residents in Bennington County. Federal authorities recently apprehended a New York man wanted for an incident at the Dorset Quarry. The arrest marks a major step in a multi-state investigation.
Why it matters
The Dorset Quarry is a beloved destination for families, swimmers, and visitors in Southern Vermont. However, threats to safety at local landmarks affect the entire community. This arrest shows that local, state, and federal agencies work together to protect our children. Furthermore, it reassures residents that authorities take reports of child abuse seriously, even across state lines.
What led to the Ryan Ouimet arrest?
The Ryan Ouimet arrest followed a detailed investigation into an incident at the Dorset Quarry on August 9, 2026. Specifically, a 12-year-old child reported that a man touched them inappropriately during an afternoon visit. Consequently, Vermont State Police established probable cause to file felony charges against the suspect.
The investigation began on August 25, 2026, when New York State Police contacted Vermont detectives. This contact occurred after a child disclosed details of the abuse during an interview in New York. Detective Sergeant Lauren Ronan led the case for the Vermont State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations. Soon, she gathered evidence showing the incident occurred at the historic quarry on Route 30. Consequently, Vermont officials secured an arrest warrant for the suspect on September 18, 2026. This warrant carried an extraditable, hold-without-bail status for New York and all New England states.
How did the Vermont State Police Shaftsbury barracks track the suspect?
The Vermont State Police Shaftsbury barracks tracked the suspect by collaborating with federal border agents and New York authorities. Because the suspect fled, police entered his information into national databases. As a result, federal agents stopped him at the Canadian border on September 25, 2026.
Federal agents apprehended the 28-year-old suspect, Ryan J. Ouimet, at approximately 6:00 PM. Specifically, he was attempting to cross the border when agents identified his active warrant. Following the arrest, border agents transferred him to the custody of the New York State Police. Meanwhile, he remains in New York while authorities arrange his extradition back to Vermont. In response, local police praised the quick action of the federal border patrol. Their vigilance prevented a fugitive from escaping justice.
What are the prior charges against Ryan J. Ouimet of Averill Park?
Ryan J. Ouimet of Averill Park faced multiple charges in New York before Vermont officials issued their warrant. Indeed, New York State Police arrested him twice in August 2026 for offenses involving minors. These cases also involve alleged sexual abuse in Sand Lake and providing alcohol to minors in Lake George.
The first New York arrest occurred on August 20, 2026. During that incident, state police in Sand Lake charged him with First-Degree Sexual Abuse. They also charged him with Endangering the Welfare of a Child. That case involved alleged sexual contact with a victim under the age of 11. Just one week later, on August 27, 2026, police arrested him again. This second arrest stemmed from an incident in Lake George during July 2026. Authorities charged him with Endangering the Welfare of a Child for providing alcohol to underage juveniles. Ultimately, these ongoing cases in New York complicated his legal situation before his border crossing attempt.
What is the current status of the Dorset Quarry Vermont arrest?
The Dorset Quarry Vermont arrest remains an active and ongoing investigation for state police. Currently, New York authorities hold the suspect without bail while he awaits formal extradition to Vermont. Once returned, he will face felony charges of Lewd and Lascivious Conduct with a Child.
However, the Vermont State Police continue to seek information from the public about this case. Specifically, they want to ensure they have all necessary details for the upcoming trial. Therefore, if you or someone you know has information, please contact the authorities. You can reach Detective Sergeant Lauren Ronan at the Shaftsbury Barracks. To do so, call the barracks at 802-442-5421. Ultimately, our community relies on watchful neighbors to keep our children safe. We will continue to follow this story as extradition proceedings move forward.
Sources
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
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