A Vermont police captain won't face charges for discharging his weapon after he was struck by shotgun fire while responding to a domestic violence call late last year.
In a news release earlier this month, the Vermont Attorney General’s Office said it wouldn't charge St. Johnsbury Police Cap. Jason Gray in an officer-involved shooting in December 2024. The decision comes after an independent review of the incident by the state's attorney general Windham County's state’s attorney, who served as conflict counsel on behalf of the Caledonia County State’s Attorney’s Office.
The incident happened during a Dec. 13, 2024, domestic assault investigation. While responding to the call, Captain Gray and Officer Jasmine Hendry entered a multi-unit residence, and once inside, they encountered the reported victim.
That was when Gray was struck by two rounds of shotgun pellets fired by a man later identified as Scott Mason. Gray was able to return fire before collapsing, but Mason after threatening the captain.
Gray was rushed to the hospital with serious but non-fatal injuries. Gray retired in April, and he suffers from double vision in one eye, pellet scars on his arms, nerve damage in his fingers and other lasting effects from the shooting, according to the Vermont Daily News.
According to the investigation, Gray was legally justified in using deadly force in order to prevent death or serious injury. Mason was not struck by the Gray's gunfire.
Mason is charged with attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer resulting in serious bodily injury, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and carrying a dangerous or deadly weapon during the commission of a felony. He remains legally presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
This article was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.
