The state of Vermont is stopping video arraignments of criminal defendants because they’re not saving as much money as expected.
The Rutland Herald says that beginning July 1, people facing arraignment on criminal charges will be escorted to court for what are frequently two- or three-minute appearances, rather than being taped in jail.
Democratic state Sen. Richard Sears of Bennington, an early advocate video arraignments, says they weren’t saving money, and were actually costing more to conduct.
Vermont Defender General Matthew Valerio says there were also concerns about attorney-client confidentiality, the victim’s right to confront a defendant in court, and frequent equipment breakdowns.