Nikolas Kerest U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont
A Stowe man, Theodore Bland, has been charged by a federal grand jury with multiple offenses including conspiracy to distribute cocaine base, possession of cocaine base and fentanyl with intent to distribute, and using a firearm in relation to drug trafficking. The charges stem from an incident on October 12, 2023, where Bland allegedly used and discharged a firearm during his drug trafficking activities. This resulted in the deaths of Jahim Solomon and Eric White.
Bland's arraignment date is yet to be determined by the United States District Court for the District of Vermont. He remains detained pending trial on initial charges. According to court documents, Bland communicated with co-conspirators via social media about controlled substances distribution and pricing. He also discussed attempts to conceal the homicides of Solomon and White.
The bodies of Solomon and White were discovered in Eden, Vermont, on October 24 and 25, 2023. If convicted on these new charges, Bland could face the federal death penalty or life imprisonment. However, no decision has been made regarding pursuing the death penalty.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher praised the investigative efforts of various law enforcement agencies involved in this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Jason Turner and Paul Van de Graaf are prosecuting the case, while David Sleigh represents Bland.
This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through community trust-building and strategic enforcement priorities.
