Mark Balch Jr., a 35-year-old resident of Granville, Vermont, was sentenced on March 9 in Vermont Superior Court, Addison Criminal Division, after pleading guilty to one misdemeanor count of reckless endangerment and one misdemeanor count of simple assault, according to the Attorney General’s Office.
The case is significant as it addresses accountability for actions that endangered others and resulted in harm. The sentencing reflects the court’s approach to balancing punishment with rehabilitation.
Judge Alison Arms presided over the proceedings and sentenced Balch to one to two years in prison, all suspended, with four years of probation. As part of his probation conditions, Balch must complete mental health and anger management treatment. He is also prohibited from possessing or using firearms and deadly weapons, contacting the victim, or engaging in violent or threatening behavior. Additionally, he has been ordered to pay restitution for the victim’s losses.
If Balch violates any terms of his probation during the four-year period, he could face up to two years in prison.
The outcome underscores the court’s focus on both public safety and rehabilitation through mandated treatment programs.
