A Social Media Connection Followed by a Cellphone Call Equals Another Deadly Overdose in Vermont
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The incident underscores the deadly risks associated with fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid that has contributed to a surge in overdose deaths across Vermont and the nation, and Vermont lawmakers’ conscious decision not to fund more drug trafficking enforcement.
A 42-year-old woman from the Chittenden County area has been charged with selling a regulated drug resulting in death following the fentanyl overdose of 39-year-old Justin Cutler from Brookfield, Vermont State Police announced in a recent press release.
The investigation began on April 16, 2023, when Cutler was discovered deceased in his Brookfield residence. Authorities found suspected drugs and drug paraphernalia near his body. An autopsy conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the cause of death to be an accidental fentanyl overdose, according to the Vermont State Police press release.
According to the Vermont State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Cutler had communicated with the accused, Nicole M. Wright, via social media and cell phone to arrange the purchase of drugs.
The two met in the Burlington area on the afternoon before Cutler's death, where he acquired fentanyl from Wright. Cutler then returned to his home in Brookfield, where he subsequently overdosed.
Laboratory testing confirmed that the drugs found near his body contained fentanyl, according to the press release. Wright faces charges under Vermont law for the sale of a regulated drug resulting in death, a serious felony that highlights the state's ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis.
The case, numbered 23B2001776, was handled by Detective Sergeant Jesse Robson of the VSP Bureau of Criminal Investigation Troop B in West Rutland.Court action is scheduled, with Wright set to appear for arraignment on August 28, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. in Chittenden Criminal Court.
No information on bail or lodging was provided in the release, and a mug shot of Wright was included.
This incident underscores the deadly risks associated with fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid that has contributed to a surge in overdose deaths across Vermont and the nation. While no further details on Wright's background or prior history were released, the case reflects broader challenges in addressing illicit drug distribution in rural and urban areas alike.
Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to contact Detective Sergeant Robson at 802-773-9101. The Vermont State Police continue to investigate drug-related fatalities as part of their commitment to public safety.