Vermont Department of Corrections Reverses Decision Not to Release Notorious Repeat Offender
In a shocking turn of events, the Vermont Department of Corrections has decided to reverse its initial decision to release a notorious repeat offender, Harley Breer, to the small town of Canaan in Essex County. This decision comes after a wave of public outcry and concerns about public safety.
The Reversal Decision
Harley Breer, a 55-year-old with a criminal history spanning 40 years that includes charges of sexual assault and kidnapping, was set to be released from prison. However, Corrections Commissioner Nick Deml announced that Breer will now remain in prison due to the significant risk he poses to public safety, his repeated noncompliance with community supervision, and his high likelihood of fleeing from the jurisdiction.
Public Outcry and Concerns
Residents of Canaan quickly mobilized, circulating a petition urging for Breer to be released elsewhere and calling for increased law enforcement resources in the area. Essex County State’s Attorney Vince Illuzzi voiced concerns about the lack of adequate law enforcement oversight in the rural town, emphasizing that it is not suitable for someone with Breer’s criminal history.
Commitment to Public Safety
In a statement, Commissioner Deml emphasized the Department of Corrections’ commitment to public safety, promising to conduct a thorough review of policies and make necessary changes to enhance the furlough review process. Furlough, a practice that allows individuals serving prison sentences to be released into the community under supervision, is a critical aspect of the department’s operations.
Despite the initial recommendation for furlough, Commissioner Deml was not aware of it until later and promptly ordered a comprehensive review of the case, resulting in the denial of Breer’s release. Breer, who currently resides in the Northern State Correctional Facility in Newport, will remain incarcerated until at least 2030.
