Habitual offender to serve time after knife threat, escaping custody

BRATTLEBORO -- George Tarbell, a 40-year-old local man with a lengthy criminal history, has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including aggravated assault and escape from police custody. The case was heard in Windham Superior Court, where Judge John Treadwell noted Tarbell's six prior felony convictions in Vermont during the proceedings.

The charges stem from an incident in July when Tarbell approached a victim on Flat Street while brandishing a knife, clearly threatening her. After being apprehended by police, he managed to escape, running up a nearby platform and down an embankment. During the scuffle, he attempted to headbutt two officers and struck one in the face.

Deputy State's Attorney David Gartenstein emphasized the impact of Tarbell's actions on the victim, who was accompanied by her children and was greatly disturbed by the encounter. Although the state sought a longer sentence, they opted for a plea deal to avoid further distress for witnesses and ensure public safety.

Defense attorney Joshua Stern acknowledged the seriousness of Tarbell's conduct but argued that the sentence was excessive given that no lasting injuries resulted from the incident. He pointed out that the plea agreement allows Tarbell to take responsibility for his actions without forcing witnesses to testify in court.

Ultimately, the resolution took into account both the need for punishment and protection of the community while avoiding the trauma of a trial for those involved.