In May 2024, Sgt. George Johnson stopped 35-year-old John Stelzl for jaywalking without sufficient cause. A physical altercation ensued, during which Johnson used excessive force, including pepper spray and a Taser. Stelzl sustained significant injuries and was hospitalized. The Caledonia County State’s Attorney’s Office dismissed the charges against Stelzl after reviewing Johnson’s body camera footage. Johnson was charged with aggravated assault and pleaded not guilty in September 2024. An independent investigation was conducted by the Vermont State Police.
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