Former Senior Living Facility Resident Sentenced to 5 Years of Probation and a $10,000 Fine for Possession of Ricin

The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Betty Miller, 71, formerly of Shelburne, Vermont, was sentenced today by the Honorable Christina Reiss to a term of five years of probation, including extensive mental health treatment, following her plea to knowingly possessing ricin in violation of 18 U.S.C. §175b(c). The Court also imposed a $10,000.00 fine. Miller pled guilty in May 2018 pursuant to an agreement between the parties. Under that agreement, Miller acknowledged producing, storing and attempting to use ricin at her former senior living facility in the fall of 2017. 

U.S. Attorney Christina Nolan offered thanks to the F.B.I., Shelburne Police Department, Shelburne Fire Department, Vermont State Police, Vermont Hazardous Material Response Team, and Vermont National Guard 15 Civil Support Team for their swift and tireless efforts to ensure the safety of the community following the discovery of the ricin at issue in this case.

AUSA Eugenia A. P. Cowles appeared for the government. Ms. Miller was represented by Paul S. Volk, Esq.