Prosecutors: Police chief in Vt. gave gun used in suicide to officer in exchange for vitamins

Prosecutors: Police chief took gun used in suicide

MIDDLEBURY, Vt. — Prosecutors charging Vergennes Police Chief Michael Lowe with embezzlement say he converted to his own use a pistol that was used in a suicide.

They say the 51-year-old lawman gave the handgun to fellow Vergennes police office Brent Newton in exchange for Newton buying some vitamin supplements for him.

Lowe, who was charged with driving under the influence of drugs following a June 7 fender bender, pleaded not guilty Monday to embezzlement, neglect of duty, possession of a depressant, stimulant or narcotic and two counts of fraudulently obtaining a prescription drug.

Lowe is currently suspended. He declined to comment after the hearing in Vermont District Court in Middlebury.