A shocking turn of events has unfolded within the Vermont State Police ranks.
Former Vermont State Trooper Giancarlo DiGenova admitted to the theft of $40,000 worth of narcotics case evidence, leading to a plea agreement that avoids jail time.
Giancarlo DiGenova resigned in February 2023 after investigations pointed towards his involvement in the disappearance of various items from a state police evidence storage room, Daily Mail reported. This discovery came to light in December 2022, unveiling a breach of trust that rocked the department.
Former officer faces justice for theft from evidence room
The stolen evidence included a mishmash of valuable items from a narcotics case, notably a $14,000 Rolex watch filched from the Williston barracks' evidence storage. DiGenova’s actions resulted in his resignation and led to multiple charges against him.
On a recent Friday, DiGenova owned up to his misdeeds, pleading guilty to felony grand larceny and several misdemeanors that painted a broad stroke of his criminal activities. These misdemeanors included petty larceny, providing false information to police, making a false statement, and neglect of duty.
Reflecting on his actions, Giancarlo DiGenova conveyed his deep remorse:
Your honor, words cannot describe the regret and remorse I feel in my heart. I am fully aware of the gravity of my actions and the harm they have caused. I humbly extend my sincerest apologies to all affected by my wrongdoing. My conduct has not only violated the law but also broke the trust and respect owed to society, the Vermont State Police, and especially my family.
A compromise in the shadow of crime
Rather than serving time behind bars, DiGenova agreed to a plea deal laying a path toward rectification without incarceration. The agreement mandates 100 hours of community service, fines, and restorative justice program participation.
DiGenova’s lenient sentencing for the petty larceny and grand larceny charges entails deferred probation spanning three years, with an opportunity to eventually expunge these charges from his record. Furthermore, he faces a sentence of six months to three years of probation concerning the charges of providing false information, neglect of duty, and making false statements.
The prosecutor, Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah George, regarded the plea bargain as a balanced resolution, stating, "That seems to me a good balance. Those misdemeanors are important ones that will keep him from being a cop."
Despite the heavy heart and the cloud of regret, DiGenova chose not to comment following his hearing. Nevertheless, his attorney, Robert Kaplan, stepped in, expressing relief and optimism on behalf of his client: "He looks forward to moving on with his life" and has "learned some important lessons here."
The aftermath and continued accountability
The theft orchestrated by DiGenova was not only daring but executed with precision. Dressed in his uniform, he waltzed into a jewelry store, aiming to get the stolen Rolex appraised. Besides the watch, DiGenova had lifted several other items, including diamond studded earrings, a gold necklace, designer brand accessories, and medication for ADHD.
Moreover, DiGenova now faces additional charges not covered by the plea bargain, pointing to a lingering shadow over this saga. While the deal stipulates no jail time for the former trooper, it does highlight ongoing proceedings in Washington County about thefts at the Berlin State Police barracks.
Despite the missteps, it's crucial to remember the commitment and sacrifice displayed daily by countless first responders. This unfortunate incident highlights the dilemmas and vulnerabilities within even the most trusted institutions.
Conclusion
Giancarlo DiGenova's admission of guilt and subsequent plea agreement marks a poignant chapter in the annals of the Vermont State Police. A once-trusted figure now faces the consequences of his actions, aiming to atone through community service, financial restitution, and a renewed pursuit of justice. As DiGenova looks towards a future beyond this grave misstep, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the principles of trust and integrity that anchor the law enforcement community.
