Payton Stearns, a 25-year-old resident of Dorchester, Massachusetts, was arraigned on charges related to sexual assault. The Attorney General’s Office reported that Stearns faces one felony count of aggravated sexual assault and two felony counts of sexual assault. These charges stem from an investigation conducted by the Thetford Police Department.
According to allegations, Stearns engaged in nonconsensual sexual acts with the victim on two separate occasions in 2024. Each incident resulted in a charge of sexual assault. The aggravated sexual assault charge is linked to the repeated nature of these acts as part of a common scheme or plan.
During his arraignment at Vermont Superior Court, Orange Unit, Criminal Division, Stearns entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. Judge Daniel Richardson set conditions for his release, which include prohibiting contact with the victim and requiring notification to his employer and commanding officer in the National Guard about the ongoing criminal case.
The Attorney General’s Office highlighted that those charged with crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
For further information, contact Amelia Vath, Outreach and Communications Coordinator at 802-828-3171.