Evergreen Reporter

Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney's Office for the District of Vermont announced that Jordan Phelps, 36, from Morrisville, Vermont, was sentenced to 18 months in prison followed by a three-year supervised release. This decision was made by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss on January 23, 2025. Phelps had earlier admitted guilt to being an unlawful user of controlled substances while possessing a firearm.

Court documents reveal that on March 11, 2024, Phelps contacted the Morristown Police Department four times with threats aimed at a law enforcement officer's home. These calls were recorded and prompted an investigation into Phelps' actions. The investigation suggested that his intent was in response to what he perceived as illegal surveillance. A search warrant executed on March 13, 2024, led authorities to discover a loaded Marlin Model 336 .30-30 Caliber Rifle in his bedroom. Further inquiry revealed Phelps' illegal use of controlled substances.

Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher acknowledged the joint efforts of various law enforcement agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Morristown Police Department, Stowe Police Department, Lamoille County Sheriff's Department, and Vermont State Police.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig prosecuted the case while Chandler Matson represented Phelps.

This legal action is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement and communities. The program emphasizes trust-building within communities and supports organizations focused on violence prevention. More information about PSN can be found at Justice.gov/PSN.