Governor Phil Scott Appoints Zach Weight as Special Prosecutor

Montpelier, Vt. - Governor Phil Scott today announced the appointment of Zach Weight as a Special Prosecutor assigned to work with the Chittenden County State's Attorney to assist in relieving the backlog of service-resistant repeat offender criminal cases, with an initial focus on individuals who have five or more open dockets and are awaiting trial.

"I believe Zach has the skills needed to take on this role as we focus on holding repeat offenders accountable and connecting people to the services they need," said Governor Phil Scott. "I'm hopeful this short-term assignment will help address some of the issues facing Burlington and know Zach will serve Vermont well."

Weight has served as Deputy State's Attorney in Washington County since April 2023. For a decade prior to joining that office, he was a criminal defense attorney who practiced in all 14 of Vermont's counties. A graduate of Vermont Law School, Zach's family hails from Proctor and Wallingford. Zach lives in Milton with his husband, Will, and their dog, Brady.

"I am grateful to Governor Scott for this opportunity to serve as Special Prosecutor. Consistent with his mission, I will strive to ensure speedy and fair accountability for all parties," said Weight. "My focus is to champion public safety, uphold due process for defendants, and provide compassionate support for victims. I look forward to working efficiently with the Judiciary, defense counsel, the Chittenden County State's Attorney, law enforcement, and our community partners to pursue justice in these matters."

"My office, and our department, are proud to lend an experienced and hardworking prosecutor to fill this vital role," said Michelle Donnelly, State's Attorney for Washington County. "Attorney Weight's years of experience and litigation in the Washington County office, grounded in a philosophy of ethical and timely justice, make him uniquely qualified to ensure a speedy and fair resolution for all involved. This effort is a clear demonstration of the statewide collaborative and team approach required to serve the public interest."

Weight's appointment is effective immediately. More details about other aspects of the Governor's short-term action plan for Burlington will be announced in the coming days.

A photo of Weight is available here.

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