Former Alburgh selectman, wife face new charges

New charges have been filed in the case of a former Alburgh Selectboard member accused of drug conspiracy and distributing cocaine and oxycodone, including allegations that the man had help from his wife.

A nine-count indictment unsealed last week in federal court contains allegations that Bernard and Patricia Savage conspired with others "known and unknown to the Grand Jury" to distribute cocaine and Oxycodone. Most of the charges against Bernard Savage mirror those in the initial indictment, which was filed solely against him in September.

Patricia Savage is charged with two counts of distributing oxycodone in November 2014 and April 2015. She pleaded not guilty Friday.

Court papers filed initially in the case against Bernard Savage stated his wife also was involved in drug distribution, but no formal charges were brought until last week.

A federal judge has allowed Patricia Savage to remain free on conditions, including that she possess no firearms. She also must participate in substance abuse therapy or counseling, according to documents outlining her conditions.

Lawyers for Patricia and Bernard Savage did not immediately respond to requests for comment Sunday.

The investigation into Bernard Savage began in late 2013 by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI and the Vermont Drug Task Force, court records state. Both indictments allege he sold oxycodone and cocaine during fall 2014 and sold cocaine the following June.

Bernard Savage also is charged with possessing 103 firearms when he was prohibited from doing so as “an unlawful user of a controlled substance,” the indictment stated. Also, at least 19 firearms, including a "2.75 inch practice rocket," lacked serial numbers, DEA records contend.

A 10th count filed in the case seeks forfeiture to the government of all proceeds directly or indirectly related  to drug dealing. The request includes nearly $25,000 seized July 1, along with several vehicles, the indictment stated.

During a raid on the couple's home in July, investigators said they seized 4 grams of a white powder believed to be cocaine, 67 grams of a green leafy substance that tested positive for marijuana and two digital scales. There also were various quantities of regulated pills, court papers showed.

Bernard Savage is scheduled for arraignment Monday on the new charges, in addition to either a pretrial hearing or a change of plea hearing that had been previously scheduled. It was unclear whether he plans to move forward to trial or settle his case.

The former Alburgh Selectboard member stepped down from his position in October. He had been elected to the board in March 2014.

Contact Elizabeth Murray at 651-4835 or emurray@freepressmedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/LizMurraySMC.