Salisbury Man Charged with Sexual Assault, Cannabis Distribution

Maxx Rheaume, 27, pleaded not guilty to felony and misdemeanor charges in Vermont court.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:27am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Vermont Attorney General's Office announced that Maxx Rheaume, 27, of Salisbury, Vermont, was arraigned on one felony count of Sexual Assault - No Consent and one misdemeanor count of Distribution of Cannabis to a person under the age of 21. The charges stem from an investigation conducted by the Vermont State Police, New Haven Barracks.

Why it matters

Sexual assault and the distribution of controlled substances to minors are serious crimes that can have significant impacts on victims and communities. This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and prosecutors to hold alleged offenders accountable and protect public safety.

The details

According to the Attorney General's Office, Rheaume pleaded not guilty to the charges at his arraignment in Vermont Superior Court, Addison Criminal Division. The court ordered Rheaume to have no contact with the victim or witnesses, and to not possess any cannabis for the duration of the case.

  • Rheaume was arraigned on the charges on Monday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Maxx Rheaume

A 27-year-old resident of Salisbury, Vermont, who was arraigned on one felony count of Sexual Assault - No Consent and one misdemeanor count of Distribution of Cannabis to a person under the age of 21.

Vermont State Police, New Haven Barracks

The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation leading to the charges against Rheaume.

Vermont Attorney General's Office

The state agency that announced the charges against Rheaume and emphasized the presumption of innocence.

Judge Alison Arms

The Vermont Superior Court judge presiding over Rheaume's arraignment and issuing the order regarding contact with the victim and witnesses, as well as cannabis possession.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Attorney General's Office emphasizes that individuals charged with a crime are legally presumed innocent until their guilt is proven beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”

— Vermont Attorney General's Office

What’s next

The judge in the case will determine whether to grant bail or keep Rheaume in custody as the legal proceedings continue.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of the criminal justice system's role in addressing serious allegations of sexual assault and drug-related offenses, while also upholding the fundamental principle of presumed innocence until proven guilty.