Spencer L. Bates, a 38-year-old resident of North Ferrisburgh, Vermont, was arraigned on March 25 on one felony charge of sexual assault and one felony charge of aggravated sexual assault. The Attorney General’s Office said the charges follow an investigation by the Middlebury Police Department.
The case is significant as it involves serious allegations and highlights the legal process for such offenses in Vermont.
Bates pleaded not guilty during his appearance at Vermont Superior Court, Addison Criminal Division. Judge David Fenster presided over the hearing and ordered that Bates be released with several conditions. These include restrictions preventing him from leaving Vermont without court permission, prohibiting possession of firearms or other dangerous weapons, and barring contact with the victim.
The Attorney General’s Office stated that anyone charged with a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
This case will proceed through the legal system as authorities continue their investigation.