Editor's note: This story was updated on Dec. 23. 2025 with information from a Brady letter issued on Dec. 22.
Rutland City Police Chief Brian Kilcullen is stepping down and will retire effective March 1, the Rutland City Police Commission announced during a special meeting Saturday.
Kilcullen, who became chief in 2015, has come under fire in recent weeks for his handling of an internal affairs investigation into a police chase and fatal crash involving several police cruisers on July 7, 2023. The report found mistakes made by several veteran city officers played a “direct” role in the death of 19-year old officer-in-training Jessica Ebbighausen.
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The undated report was made public as part of a filing made in Rutland County Superior criminal court, according to VTDigger and Seven Days, which published stories about the investigation.
On Monday, Rutland State’s Attorney Ian Sullivan issued a Brady letter against Kilcullen, a document that formally calls into question the credibility of a government witness. Sullivan is prosecuting the murder case against Tate Rheaume, who was involved in the high-speed chase that killed Ebbighausen.
In the letter, Sullivan states that Kilcullen “suppressed evidence favorable to the defendant in a criminal case in an attempt to shape the trial.”
The state’s attorney’s office had repeatedly inquired about the release of the internal investigation and warned the chief that failing to disclose it in a timely manner could jeopardize the murder case, according to emails included with the letter.
Pat Brougham, chair of the Rutland City Police Commission, said she had been surprised she had not received a copy.
“That it was a reporter who supplied me with the report instead of the chief, that raised a number of questions,” Brougham told Vermont Public.
Asked Saturday if the report was the reason Kilcullen was stepping down, she said she wouldn't speculate.
“He’s been on vacation and out of the area. It’s not a discussion he and I have had,” said Brougham, though she said she was not surprised at his intent to retire.
Kilcullen did not respond to a request for comment.
In a press release, the Police Commission thanked Kilcullen for his service to the city and "for his commitment to public safety."
The Commission tapped Commander Matt Prouty to be Interim Chief, effective immediately. Prouty will handle the "full authorities and responsibilities of the Office of the Chief of Police, including operational oversight of the Rutland City Police Department," according to the press release.
Kilcullen will serve with the department in a limited capacity for the next few months to support the transition.
“The Rutland City Police Commission is committed to maintaining stability and uninterrupted service to our community,” the Commission stated. “This transition plan ensures clear leadership, operational continuity, and a structured handoff of responsibilities.”
Speaking with Vermont Public over the weekend about Prouty's appointment, Brougham said, “I think we’re in very good hands.”
