Westminster, VT – A Westminster man was arrested and charged with driving under the influence following a traffic stop earlier this week on Route 5, according to the Windham County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, when a deputy conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 5 in the Town of Westminster after observing a black 2025 Ford Expedition traveling at an excessive speed. During the investigation, deputies allegedly determined the driver was impaired by alcohol and unsafe to operate a motor vehicle.
Authorities identified the driver as Matthew Shanks, 40, of Westminster, Vermont. Deputies said Shanks was taken into custody and transported to the Windham County Sheriff’s Office for processing.
Shanks was charged with Driving Under the Influence, First Offense, according to the release. Following processing, he was released to a sober adult and issued a Vermont Criminal Citation.
Court records indicate Shanks is scheduled to appear before the Windham Superior Court, Criminal Division, on January 6, 2026 (Tuesday). No bail was required as part of the release conditions.
The investigation was handled by Deputy Thomas Raymond with assistance from Detective Sergeant Mario Chechi, the Sheriff’s Office said.
As with all criminal cases, the charge is an allegation, and the accused is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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