Barre Prosecutor Dismisses 50 Cases Involving Officer Under Credibility Review

Residents of Barre City who were charged with crimes in recent months may find those charges erased. Washington County State’s Attorney Michelle Donnelly has dismissed approximately 50 criminal cases that were handled by Barre City Police Officer Matthew Frey. The dismissal follows a determination that Frey’s credibility as a witness is compromised, requiring defense attorneys to be formally notified of the issue.

The action stems from an internal review that concluded Frey developed an inappropriate sexual relationship with a woman he had arrested. The incident began in May 2026 when Frey responded to a car crash in Barre City. During the summer, while the woman’s case remained pending, investigators found that Frey initiated a discreet relationship with her through social media. He obtained partially nude photos from the woman and later engaged in a sexual encounter with her. The woman told police she felt coerced into the relationship.

Donnelly stated that the allegations are serious and directly impact the officer's reliability in court. She noted that she would not accept cases from Frey after the conduct came to light. A Giglio letter, a document issued when a police officer’s credibility is in question, was placed on file for defense counsel. Donnelly explained that a neighboring state’s attorney reviewed the investigation and determined the letter was appropriate. As a result, the prosecution is dropping the roughly 50 cases involving Frey, with the possibility of more dismissals to follow.

Donnelly expressed frustration that defendants will not be held accountable for their behavior due to the officer’s conduct. However, she maintained full trust in the rest of the Barre City Police Department. She emphasized that the Giglio letter does not indicate criminal charges against Frey, but it does require a formal notice to the defense in any ongoing or future cases where his testimony is used.

Barre City Police Chief Brad Vail said the news took him by surprise. He stated that the letter does not reflect on the department as a whole and that he does not believe there are other misconduct cases involving Frey. Vail confirmed that Frey is currently on administrative leave while the city conducts its own internal investigation. The administrative process must run its course before final personnel decisions are made.

The city’s internal investigation is expected to conclude by the end of this week. Donnelly’s office continues to process the dismissals to ensure all affected defense counsel receive the necessary documentation. The dismissal of these cases means that the specific criminal charges brought by Frey will no longer proceed through the Washington County court system.