Statement from Governor Phil Scott

Montpelier, Vt. - Governor Phil Scott today issued the following statement following the South Burlington law enforcement actions taken yesterday.

"From my perspective, what unfolded yesterday in South Burlington was totally unnecessary. In this difficult national climate, it's the responsibility of law enforcement officials to do their jobs in a safe and lawful way. The actions of federal law enforcement, from outside the state yesterday, further demonstrates a lack of training, coordination, leadership, and outdated tactics which put both peaceful protesters and Vermont law enforcement in a difficult situation.

"Yesterday, Vermont State Police, along with the Burlington and Williston police departments responded, at the request of the South Burlington Police Department, to help ensure public safety for protesters, the general public, and law enforcement. I want to thank them for their professionalism throughout an incredibly challenging situation.

"I want to be clear, how the events concluded, and the tactics deployed by federal officials, as well as actions of those there to agitate, further escalated a situation that was avoidable from the start. It's examples like this that further divide communities and law enforcement and result in more harm being done than good.

"Throughout the morning, I've met with legislative leadership and will be meeting with members of the federal delegation and their staff this afternoon to update them on the situation."