Highgate, Vermont – Two individuals have been arrested in connection with an armed robbery reported in December at a residence in Highgate, according to local authorities. Investigators say the arrests followed weeks of investigation and coordination between law enforcement agencies. Both suspects were taken into custody without incident on Tuesday evening.
Incident Overview
Police confirmed that the robbery occurred at a private home in Highgate in December, when occupants reported being confronted and property taken during the incident. The case remained under investigation for several weeks as officers worked to identify those responsible and locate stolen items connected to the crime.
Authorities say the robbery involved forced entry and physical confrontation, elevating the case beyond a standard burglary and leading to more serious felony charges.
Timeline of Events
The incident was first reported in December 2025, when officers responded to a call from a Highgate residence describing an armed intrusion. Detectives gathered evidence from the scene, interviewed witnesses, and reviewed information related to the suspects’ movements following the robbery.
On Tuesday evening, police located the suspects at a home in Swanton, where both individuals were arrested. Law enforcement confirmed that the suspects are residents of Swanton.
Details From Police
Police identified the suspects as Eric Smith and Sabrena Murray. According to authorities, both individuals were taken into custody at the same location and transported for processing.
Smith is facing multiple felony charges, including burglary, assault, and robbery. Police confirmed that his bail has been set at $10,000, reflecting the severity of the alleged offenses.
Murray is facing several charges as well, including burglary, aiding in a felony, possession of stolen property, and providing false information to a police officer.
A police spokesperson said the arrests were the result of “persistent investigative work and cooperation across departments.”
“This was not an isolated incident, and we took the time needed to build a strong case before making arrests,” police said in a statement.
Key Facts in the Case
- Incident location: A private residence in Highgate
- Suspects arrested: Eric Smith and Sabrena Murray
- Arrest location: A home in Swanton
- Smith’s charges: Burglary, assault, robbery
- Smith’s bail: $10,000
- Murray’s charges: Burglary, aiding in a felony, possession of stolen property, providing false information
- Court date: Thursday
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
Both suspects are scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, where a judge will formally review the charges and determine how the case will proceed. Prosecutors are expected to outline the evidence collected during the investigation, while defense attorneys may address bail conditions and preliminary motions.
Police have not yet said whether additional suspects could be involved or whether more charges may be filed as the case develops.
Additional Context: Home Robberies and Community Safety
Law enforcement officials note that home robberies, especially those involving weapons or physical force, pose significant risks to residents. Even when injuries are not severe, such incidents can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects on victims.
Police recommend several preventative measures for homeowners, including securing doors and windows, using outdoor lighting, and reporting suspicious activity promptly. Community cooperation, officials say, plays a major role in solving crimes of this nature.
Conclusion
The arrests of Eric Smith and Sabrena Murray mark a significant development in the December armed robbery investigation in Highgate. As the case moves to court, authorities emphasize that the investigation remains active and that public safety continues to be a priority.
If you have information related to this case or similar incidents in your area, law enforcement encourages you to contact local authorities. Share your experiences in the comments below.
