Cape Cod Resident Fined for Disruptive Behavior at Vermont School Board Meeting

Elizabeth Dery, 69, faced the Windham Superior Court, Criminal Division, where she was ordered to pay a $200 fine.

A former resident of Townshend, now living in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, was recently fined by a Vermont court for causing a disruption at a School Board meeting and for resisting arrest. Elizabeth Dery, 69, faced the Windham Superior Court, Criminal Division, where she was ordered to pay a $200 fine.

The incident took place during a West River Education District Board meeting in April 2022 at Leland & Gray Union Middle and High School in Townshend. Dery, who had been living near the school before relocating to Massachusetts, interrupted the meeting with heated remarks against COVID-19 vaccines and masks, causing a significant disturbance. Her conduct was described as reckless and inconvenient to the public.

Deputy State's Attorney George Anthes had sought a brief jail sentence, citing Dery's aggressive behavior, which included pointing at attendees and making threatening statements. Despite her emotional state, her actions were deemed unacceptable, as they violated conditions of her release, including a ban on alcohol consumption.

During her sentencing, Dery expressed strong opinions against vaccines, former State's Attorney Tracy Shriver, and homosexuality. She also claimed vaccines contained harmful substances. Judge Michael Kainen acknowledged her heightened emotions but noted that a significant amount of time had passed since the incident, influencing his decision to impose a lighter penalty. He suggested that the delay in the case contributed to the leniency of the sentence.

Dery's defense, represented by Daniel Stevens from the Windham County Public Defender's Office, indicated she might appeal the decision. The case had initially favored a bench trial due to difficulties in jury selection. Community tension had been apparent before Dery's departure from Townshend. In October 2021, letters were sent to the School Board urging a statement against hate after a Nazi flag was seen in Dery's yard.

Her yard also displayed signs critical of the U.S. government's response to the pandemic. In response, both the School Board and the Townshend Select Board issued statements condemning hate symbols and emphasizing community inclusivity. During the school board meeting, Dery announced the sale of her house, which was met with applause from some attendees.