Local Nonprofit Director Avoids Prosecution Over False ICE Claim
Vergennes, VT — Alicia Grangent, the former director of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Vergennes, will not face prosecution for allegedly providing false testimony regarding an encounter with an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. Instead, Grangent has been advised to donate $500 to the John Graham Housing Shelter, a local charity.
Grangent, 49, initially claimed to have been accosted by an ICE agent while shopping at Shaw’s Supermarket. However, a thorough investigation by Vergennes Police, lasting over ten weeks, concluded that no such incident occurred. Police Chief Jason Ouellette reported that Grangent’s account caused widespread concern and distrust within the community, particularly among local immigrants.
After consulting with various law enforcement officials, including Detective Jill Harter and Special Agent Josh Otey from the Vermont Office for Homeland Security Investigations, it became clear that Grangent fabricated her claims. Despite her assertions, surveillance footage proved her account was unfounded, and Grangent later acknowledged that the incident did not take place.
Addison County State’s Attorney Eva Vekos, who opted not to prosecute Grangent despite the severity of the charges, noted her lack of a prior criminal record and Grangent’s community contributions in reaching her decision. "I considered several factors," Vekos stated, maintaining that, in lieu of court, Grangent’s donation to charity serves as a fitting resolution.
Grangent, who recently relocated to St. Louis for a new position, has garnered mixed reactions regarding her case, with some community members expressing disappointment over the outcome. As Grangent moves forward, her connection to community service remains evident, albeit under scrutinized circumstances.
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