Press Release

INCIDENT: Violation of Conditions of Release, DUI Refusal, Excessive Speed, Large Capacity Ammunition Feed Devices.
CASE #: 26OLC003645
DEPUTY: Battista
STATION: ORLEANS COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
CONTACT#: (802) 334-3333
DATE: 09/28/2026
LOCATION: Route 105, Newport City, VT
VIOLATIONS: Violation of Conditions of Release, DUI Refusal, Excessive Speed, Large Capacity Ammunition Feed Devices.
FELONY/ MISDEMEANOR: Misdemeanors
ACCUSED: Zachary Smith
AGE: 23
CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Coventry, VT
SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

On 09/28/2026 at approximately 1607 hours, while on duty for the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department, Deputy Battista observed a vehicle driving on route 105 in Newport City at an extremely fast rate of speed. Deputy Battista initiated a traffic stop; the operator was identified as Zachary Smith.

During the traffic stop Deputy Battista observed several signs of impairment and a handgun with a 30-round magazine inside the vehicle. Zachary was found to also be in violation of his active court ordered conditions of release to not consume alcohol.

Zachary was subsequently placed under arrest and transported to the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department for processing. The vehicle being operated was towed and evidence was seized.

Zachary was charged with, DUI Criminal Refusal, Violation of Conditions of Release, Excessive Speed and Large Capacity Ammunition Feed Devices.


COURT ACTION: Yes
COURT DATE/TIME: 10/13/2026 @ 0830 hours
COURT: Vermont Superior Court; Orleans Criminal Division
LODGED - LOCATION: N/A
BAIL: N/A

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