Michael P. Drescher Acting United States Attorney for the District of Vermont | U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont
Jared Marcus Hutchins, a 22-year-old from Manchester, New Hampshire, was charged on April 17 with Enticement of a Minor and Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct with a Minor, according to the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont. Hutchins was arrested in Montpelier after an investigation involving several law enforcement agencies. His initial court appearance is scheduled before United States Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by federal authorities to protect children from exploitation and prosecute offenders. The U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont supports community safety and civil rights through efforts to reduce crime and protect victims, according to the official website.
Court records indicate that Hutchins began communicating via social media with a 13-year-old victim in late December 2025. During their interactions, he requested explicit content from the minor and exchanged nude photos. On April 10, they met at a park near Montpelier where sexual intercourse occurred. Afterward, Hutchins allegedly became violent—searching through her phone, choking her, striking her face, pointing a loaded firearm at her, hitting her on the head with it, stabbing her in the stomach with a screwdriver, then driving off at high speed before returning due to car trouble.
Hutchins was apprehended after police noticed his vehicle in Montpelier following the victim's report of abuse; he was found carrying a firearm at arrest. The United States Attorney’s Office emphasized that "a criminal complaint contains allegations only and that Hutchins is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty." If convicted of Enticement of a Minor, he faces between ten years and life imprisonment under federal sentencing guidelines.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt said: "I am extremely grateful for the partnership of these law enforcement agencies, and I am immensely proud of their work so far on this case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont will continue to prioritize protecting children from harm and holding accountable those who victimize them.”
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont enforces federal criminal laws and handles civil litigation on behalf of the United States as reported by its official website. It serves all areas within Vermont through offices located in Burlington and Rutland while fostering partnerships with local agencies to enhance public safety according to its official site.
This prosecution falls under Project Safe Childhood—a Department of Justice initiative started in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation—and Operation Take Back America which targets violent crime nationally.
