Rutland State Senator Pleads Not Guilty to Domestic Assault Charge

State Sen. Terry Williams, a Republican from Rutland, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to one count of domestic assault in a packed courtroom where family members watched. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 18 months in prison if convicted.

Court documents say Williams struck his adult daughter in the face during an argument Monday night at his home in Poultney, where she has lived with him since July. She told police that Williams said, "I should have punched you 40 years ago," then hit her with an open fist, leaving a scratch on her face. Williams told police she approached him first and that he pushed her, injuring his own finger during the encounter.

Defense attorney Toni Gutil said, "Senator Williams is not guilty of the alleged offense. We look forward to defending this charge vigorously." Gutil added, "Family dynamics can be complicated, and despite Senator Williams' position, he is not immune to that reality, which many of us face."

Williams was released on conditions that bar him from contacting his adult daughter in person or online. He did not comment on the charge or on his re-election campaign. He faces two other Republicans and one independent candidate in November.

Sen. Scott Beck, who leads Vermont's Senate Republicans, said in a Wednesday statement: "Domestic violence is a serious crime. Victims of domestic violence need to be respected, and allegations need to be treated seriously. All parties in this case deserve due process. We will have no further comment at this time."

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