HIGHGATE, VT — Vermont State Police arrested a man on drug impairment and license suspension charges after his vehicle struck a motel on June 27, 2026.
Joseph Mailhiot, 49, of Rochester, was taken into custody at 11:49 a.m. at 67 U.S. Route 7.
Police responded to a report of a vehicle that had struck the Europa Motel.
An investigation revealed Mailhiot was operating his vehicle while under the influence of drugs, according to police.
His license had previously been criminally suspended, police said.
The Highgate Fire Department responded to assess the building and determined there was no significant structural damage.
Mailhiot was charged with DUI drugs, third offense, and driving with a license suspended.
He was lodged at a correctional facility.
