Vermont State Police Official Fired Amid Allegations of Political Motives

WATERBURY, Vt. (WCAX) – The Vermont State Police has fired Etan Nasreddin-Longo, who played a key role in administering the Fair and Impartial Policing policy. This decision raises questions about potential political motivations behind the firing.

Appointed in 2020, Nasreddin-Longo was tasked with improving police relationships throughout Vermont and addressing issues related to bias, antisemitism, and hate crimes against LGBTQ communities. He described his work as impactful, saying, “I felt like I was making a difference for people who wanted a difference.” His efforts earned him an award from the state police three years ago.

Earlier this month, state police proposed that he transition from a full-time role to a consultant position, which would require professional liability insurance. Nasreddin-Longo’s subsequent termination came after a meeting with senior officials in the Scott administration. “I’m at will; they don’t owe me a reason, legally,” he said. “As far as the communities with whom we work are concerned, they do owe them a reason.”

He expressed concern that his firing might be politically motivated, influenced by a national trend regarding equity, immigration, and policing emanating from the Trump administration. “It would be very weird not to see a link between this and national politics,” he remarked.

Nasreddin-Longo believes that the state and some lawmakers may be retreating from commitments to social justice and police reform. In response to the firing, the Vermont Department of Public Safety stated it could not comment on personnel matters, but assured that its dedication to fair and impartial policing would continue.

The future of the Fair and Impartial Policing and Community Affairs office remains uncertain, particularly regarding whether the Vermont State Police will appoint a new director.