Sheldon man cited on domestic assault charge

SHELDON, Vt. — A 33-year-old Sheldon man was cited on a domestic assault charge following an investigation by Vermont State Police into an Aug. 4 incident.

Troopers from the St. Albans Barracks responded to Sheldon at approximately 9:03 p.m. after receiving a report of an assault.

Police said their investigation determined that Joseph Hardy, 33, of Sheldon had caused pain and fear to a household member.

Consistent with Vermont State Police policy regarding domestic violence cases, authorities did not identify the alleged victim.

Hardy was issued a flash citation ordering him to appear the following day in Franklin County Superior Court, Criminal Division, to answer to the domestic assault charge. His appearance was scheduled for Aug. 5 at 1 p.m.

State police did not provide further details about the circumstances leading to the alleged assault or report whether the victim required medical attention.

A mug shot accompanied the original state police release.

Trooper Bodey Towle of the St. Albans Barracks investigated the case.

Domestic assault cases frequently involve limited information in initial police releases because authorities withhold information that could identify or compromise the privacy of alleged victims.

The charge against Hardy is an accusation. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.