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About Rory
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Rory has had a well-rounded legal career with a strong focus on criminal law, specializing in complex cases involving sexual violence, domestic abuse, and child exploitation. As a prosecutor, he is guided by his upbringing in a blue-collar family of plumbers and electricians, by his military experience, and by his democratic values. He loves animals, the outdoors, his community, and above all else his family.
Early Life, Education, and Military Service
Connecticut born and raised, Rory has always had roots in Vermont through his grandparents, and he spent a significant amount of time in the Green Mountain State during his childhood - namely in Brookline, Bethel, and Royalton. He ventured south for college to the University of Richmond on an Army ROTC scholarship, graduating with a B.A. in Political Science, and then returned "home" to Vermont in 2004 for law school. In 2007, Rory graduated from Vermont Law School where he met his wife, Johanna. The two married in true Vermont style in a big red barn in the Mad River Valley.
After law school, Rory was a Judge Advocate (JAG) for the U.S. Army. Moving to a new duty station every two to three years, Rory and Johanna lived in D.C., Virginia, Germany and Tennessee before he left active duty as a Major and finally returning to Vermont. Now with a family including two boys, Rory decided it was time to trade in globe trotting for some deep roots in a place both he and Johanna considered "home".
After law school, Rory was a Judge Advocate (JAG) for the U.S. Army. Moving to a new duty station every two to three years, Rory and Johanna lived in D.C., Virginia, Germany and Tennessee before he left active duty as a Major and finally returning to Vermont. Now with a family including two boys, Rory decided it was time to trade in globe trotting for some deep roots in a place both he and Johanna considered "home".
Washington County State's Attorney
Rory was hired as a Deputy State's Attorney for Washington County in June of 2016 and was promoted to Chief Deputy shortly thereafter. In October of 2017 Rory joined the Attorney General's office as an Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Division. He returned to his current office in January 2018 after being appointed by Governor Phil Scott to complete the term of the prior State's Attorney who resigned. In November 2018, Rory was elected to a four-year term as Washington County State's Attorney.
As Washington County State's Attorney, Rory has emphasized a pro-active and holistic approach to public safety. He has supported restorative practices, drug treatment court, and has been an ally to victims of crime - particularly those impacted by intimate partner violence or sexual violence. Rory has taken on a leading role within the Department of State's Attorneys & Sheriffs - serving as a representative to the Vermont Sentencing Commission and on the Executive Board of State's Attorneys. He has also continued his advocacy for multiple justice reform efforts - ranging from de-felonization of personal use quantities of drugs, to revising Vermont's definition of consent for the first time in decades.
As Washington County State's Attorney, Rory has emphasized a pro-active and holistic approach to public safety. He has supported restorative practices, drug treatment court, and has been an ally to victims of crime - particularly those impacted by intimate partner violence or sexual violence. Rory has taken on a leading role within the Department of State's Attorneys & Sheriffs - serving as a representative to the Vermont Sentencing Commission and on the Executive Board of State's Attorneys. He has also continued his advocacy for multiple justice reform efforts - ranging from de-felonization of personal use quantities of drugs, to revising Vermont's definition of consent for the first time in decades.
Community Member & After Work
Rory's public service extends beyond his role as State's Attorney. He has served for nearly 5 years as a member of the Cabot School Board. He has helped the school navigate Act 46 and difficult budgets, but is most proud of drafting the school district's diversity, equity, and inclusion policy and supporting students in their efforts to raise the Black Lives Matter and rainbow pride flags on the school campus.
During the pandemic, Rory pursued a goal of working with large animals and livestock - he relies on his "farm time" working with his small herd of cows and flock of sheep to relieve stress and stay connected to the land. He also enjoys keeping his vintage tractors (1948 Ford 8n and a 1959 Ford 641 Workmaster) going, as well as hiking, biking, and skiing with his wife, sons, and dog.
During the pandemic, Rory pursued a goal of working with large animals and livestock - he relies on his "farm time" working with his small herd of cows and flock of sheep to relieve stress and stay connected to the land. He also enjoys keeping his vintage tractors (1948 Ford 8n and a 1959 Ford 641 Workmaster) going, as well as hiking, biking, and skiing with his wife, sons, and dog.
*Information and photographs concerning military service and status do not imply official endorsement by DoD or the U.S. Army.