Former Alburgh selectman set to change plea
A potential plea agreement is in the works for a former Alburgh Selectboard member and his wife, who are accused of drug conspiracy and distribution, a defense lawyer says.
Bernard Savage and Patricia Savage are scheduled to appear later this month in U.S. District Court in Burlington for a change-of-plea hearing.
Bernard Savage's attorney Karen Shingler said Wednesday that official plea agreements for both suspects should be filed soon with the court. Attorneys are awaiting signatures from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Under the proposed agreement, Bernard Savage would plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and oxycodone. His remaining six charges, including one count of unlawful firearms possession, would be dropped, Shingler said. Shingler declined to comment further on the agreement until the paperwork is filed.
Patricia Savage's attorney Norman Blais declined comment Wednesday on any potential plea negotiations or agreements until a deal is signed by federal prosecutors. Patricia Savage has pleaded not guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine and oxycodone and two counts of distributing oxycodone.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy Fuller declined comment on any pending plea negotiations.
Former Alburgh selectman denies new charges
An investigation into Bernard Savage began in late 2013 involving the Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI and the Vermont Drug Task Force, court records state. An indictment alleges he sold oxycodone and cocaine during fall 2014 and sold cocaine the following June.
At least 103 firearms were found in the couple's home. About 19 of of those, including a "2.75 inch practice rocket," lacked serial numbers, DEA records state.
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.
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 states.
The former Alburgh Selectboard member stepped down from his position in October. Bernard Savage had been elected to the board in March 2014.
Former Alburgh selectman, wife face new charges
Contact Elizabeth Murray at 651-4835 or emurray@freepressmedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/LizMurraySMC.