Why It Matters
The case involves the death of a Rutland police officer during a motor-vehicle pursuit more than three years ago. Tate Rheaume faces several charges, including aggravated murder.
What Happened
Rheaume is accused of crashing his pickup truck and killing the officer during the pursuit.
Attorney David Sleigh withdrew a motion that sought to move the trial out of Rutland County. He had argued that media attention could make it difficult to seat a fair and impartial jury there. The prosecution opposed changing the venue.
Judge Susan McManus presided over Monday’s hearing in Rutland Superior criminal court. Sleigh and Ian Sullivan are preparing a questionnaire to screen potential jurors.
By the Numbers
More than three years ago — timing of the pursuit.
Next spring — expected timing of the trial.
Monday — date of the hearing when the motion was withdrawn.
Earlier this year — timing of the venue-change motion.
Earlier this month — timing of the hearing when Sleigh raised withdrawing the motion.
Zoom Out
Sleigh said a written questionnaire could help address publicity and strong community reactions during jury selection.
“I think it’s an efficient way to address the enormous amount of publicity this case has generated, and the strong feelings that appear to exist in a large number of people in Rutland County,” Sleigh said.
What’s Next
The trial is expected to take place next spring in Rutland County. The defense team is preparing the questionnaire for potential jurors.