Bill > H0258

This bill aims to reform law enforcement interrogation practices, with a focus on protecting juveniles and reducing false confessions. The legislation requires the Vermont Criminal Justice Council to develop a statewide model interrogation policy by January 1, 2026, which will apply to all law enforcement agencies and constables. Key provisions include prohibiting law enforcement from using deception, threats, or physical harm during custodial interrogations of individuals under 22 years old, and mandating that an "interested adult" (a person over 18 who is genuinely concerned for the juvenile's welfare) be notified and present during any juvenile interrogation. Before an interrogation, law enforcement must contact the juvenile's parent or guardian. If an interrogation violates these provisions, any resulting statements would be presumed involuntary and inadmissible in court, though prosecutors could potentially overcome this presumption by proving the statement was truly voluntary. The bill also creates a new Director of Policy position within the Vermont Criminal Justice Council to oversee policy development and compliance. Most provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, with some specific sections becoming active on April 1, 2026, and the ultimate goal is to improve trust between communities and law enforcement while preventing wrongful convictions.