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Multiple charge arrest-Putney

Incident: 26WHC001589, 26WHC001526
Date: 4/24/26
Location: Bellows Falls Rd., Putney, VT
Investigating Deputy: Det. Sgt. M. Checchi, Deputy R. Levesque, Deputy K. Cadorette, Deputy T. Raymond

Accused: James R. Rowe
Age: 54
City & State of Residence: Putney, VT

Charges: Arrest on Warrant, Violation of Conditions of Release, Resisting Arrest, Aggravated Assault on LEO.

Description: During the evening of April 24th, 2026, Deputies with the Windham County Sheriff's Office were attempting to locate James R. Rowe regarding an active arrest warrant. The arrest warrant was issued regarding an incident on 4/22/26, where Rowe committed the crimes of False Alarm-Fire-Emergency, Disorderly Conduct, and Violation of Conditions of Release. Deputies made several attempts in days following that incident to try and take Rowe into custody.

At approximately 1820 hours, Deputies observed Rowe sitting in a chair in his front lawn alongside a large open fire. Deputies were able to surround Rowe and when commands were given to surrender, Rowe refused and disobeyed several verbal commands by Deputies. Soon after, Rowe picked up a chainsaw while Deputies were standing in close proximity and started it. One Deputy, just feet away, was able to tackle Rowe just after the chainsaw was started and take him to the ground without anyone being injured. Rowe resisted arrest physically and was finally able to be taken into custody.

Rowe was transported to the Windham County Sheriff's Office where Rowe was ordered held on $5,000 cash or surety bond with conditions and issued a criminal citation to appear on 4/27/26. He was later lodged at the Southern State Correctional Facility on his arrest warrant and these new charges.

Court Date:4/27/26
Bail: $500-Arrest warrant; $5,000 on new charges.