Vermont Man Charged with Brutal Murder of Father, Assault of Mother

October 8, 2024

VERMONT: A 29-year-old man was charged with the brutal murder of his father and aggravated assault of his mother.

Jordan Lawyer, of Enosburgh, entered not guilty pleas to second-degree murder, aggravated assault, and eluding police in Vermont Superior Court on Monday. The charges stem from a horrific attack that left his 54-year-old father, Todd Lawyer, dead and his 58-year-old mother, Robin Lawyer, severely injured.

According to court documents, the gruesome events unfolded on Friday morning when Robin Lawyer called 911 at 8:45 a.m., reporting that her son was burning furniture and smashing windows at their shared residence. Moments later, a neighbor contacted authorities, stating that Todd Lawyer had been shot and Robin was injured.

Responding officers found Todd Lawyer's lifeless body outside the home, while Robin Lawyer was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries to her forearm and forehead. She was reported in stable condition on Friday, but her current condition remains unknown.

This is not the first time Jordan Lawyer has been accused of attacking his parents. In 2022, he was found incompetent to stand trial for similar charges, marking a disturbing pattern of behavior.

Prosecutor's accounts reveal that the deadly confrontation began when Todd and Robin Lawyer returned home to find Jordan burning furniture in the front yard. Todd, attempting to protect himself, picked up a bat and told Jordan he needed to move out. Jordan then seized the bat and unleashed a vicious attack on his father.

Robin Lawyer attempted to intervene, but Jordan turned the bat on her, striking her multiple times. She managed to escape and lock herself inside the house, where she called 911.

Police discovered a bloody baseball bat in the Jeep Grand Cherokee that Jordan Lawyer allegedly fled the scene in. He later crashed the vehicle into another car and was taken into custody.

Judge Allison Arms ordered Lawyer held without bond pending a probable cause hearing and mandated a competency evaluation, given his history of mental health issues.

If convicted, Jordan Lawyer faces life in prison for the second-degree murder charge. The investigation is ongoing, with the Vermont State Police and the Attorney General's Office working together to ensure justice is served.

Stay informed with breaking news and in-depth coverage of crime and justice.