Woman Arrested for Trespassing, Assault in Mendon, Vermont

Marlana Gibeault, 53, allegedly entered an occupied home without permission and assaulted the resident.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:18am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a broken window lock, capturing the harsh, gritty details of the damaged security device in stark contrast against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the violation of private property.A close-up of a damaged home security device serves as a grim reminder of the violation of private property rights.Rutland Today

Vermont State Police arrested a 53-year-old woman named Marlana Gibeault on April 8 after she allegedly entered an occupied home in Mendon, Vermont without permission and assaulted the resident, identified as 41-year-old Leslie Doenges. Gibeault was charged with unlawful trespass into an occupied dwelling and simple assault.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of home security and the need for swift law enforcement response to potential break-ins or home invasions, which can pose serious risks to public safety. Trespassing and assault charges are taken seriously in Vermont, and this case may prompt discussions around mental health resources and de-escalation training for law enforcement.

The details

According to the police report, troopers from the Rutland Barracks responded to a burglary in progress call on Brookwood at approximately 11:04 a.m. on April 8. An investigation determined that Marlana Gibeault had entered the dwelling without permission. Gibeault was taken into custody and transported to the Rutland Barracks for processing before being transported to Marble Valley Correctional Facility.

  • The incident occurred on April 8, 2026 at approximately 11:04 a.m.

The players

Marlana Gibeault

A 53-year-old resident of Rutland Town, Vermont who was arrested and charged with unlawful trespass into an occupied dwelling and simple assault.

Leslie Doenges

A 41-year-old resident of Mendon, Vermont who was the victim of the trespass and assault.

Vermont State Police

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and made the arrest.

Rutland Town Police Department

The local police department that assisted Vermont State Police at the scene.

Rutland City Police Department

The local police department that assisted Vermont State Police at the scene, including with a K9 unit.

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What they’re saying

“We take all reports of trespassing and assault very seriously, and will work to ensure the safety of our communities.”

— Vermont State Police Spokesperson

What’s next

Marlana Gibeault is being held at Marble Valley Correctional Facility, and is scheduled to appear in court on April 10 to face the charges of unlawful trespass and simple assault.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of home security and the need for vigilance in reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement. It also highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to mental health-related incidents and the ongoing discussions around improving crisis intervention training.