The FBI arrested Andrew Buzzell, 34, last week after an undercover agent says Buzzell solicited sexual activity with what he believed to be a 9-year-old girl, according to federal prosecutors. Buzzell was identified as the Vermont state director of a child evangelism organization and an elder at an independent Baptist church.
Allegations and arrest
Federal prosecutors say Buzzell responded to an online solicitation asking whether “any pervs” were interested in “Taboo Young” children. When the undercover investigator asked what constituted “(too) young,” the filing says Buzzell replied, “There’s no such thing.” Authorities allege he told the agent he wanted to rape a 9-year-old and solicited photos of the supposed child.
Buzzell faces federal charges that carry a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal prosecutor told a court that Buzzell’s position as a director of a child-focused ministry made the allegations “particularly alarming.”
Local reaction
The church where Buzzell served removed him from leadership and membership in a unanimous vote. Green Mountain Baptist Church, located in Center Rutland, posted a statement online saying the congregation seeks “complete justice,” and asked for prayers for Buzzell’s wife while urging anyone with information to contact the FBI.
"We desire complete justice," Green Mountain Baptist Church said, also asking for "comfort and healing for all impacted individuals."
Child Evangelism Fellowship of Vermont (CEF), the organization Buzzell directed, has not issued a public statement and did not respond to email requests for comment, according to reporting on the case. The CEF state program currently operates three after-school evangelism programs in Vermont and had plans to expand further.
Community implications
The arrest has raised immediate concerns about volunteer and leadership vetting in organizations that work with children. Federal prosecutors emphasized the risk posed by someone who holds a leadership role in youth ministries.
- Role at issue: State director of a child evangelism organization and church elder.
- Alleged victim age: 9 years (as alleged to the undercover agent).
- Potential penalty: Up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted.
Local churches and youth programs often rely on volunteers and part-time leaders; the case highlights the importance of background checks, clear reporting procedures and coordination with law enforcement when allegations arise.
Legal process and next steps
Buzzell has been charged in federal court. Prosecutors laid out the allegations during a recent court appearance. Details of any plea or pretrial schedule were not available in initial reporting.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Andrew Buzzell, 34 |
| Allegation | Sought sexual contact with a 9-year-old; solicited photos (alleged to undercover agent) |
| Position | Vermont state director of a child evangelism group; church elder |
| Maximum federal sentence | 20 years |
Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the allegations to contact the FBI. The church also asked the community to come forward with information and to offer support for those affected.
What residents should know
Residents with concerns about youth-safety policies at local organizations can review volunteer screening and supervision practices and ask groups that serve children about background checks and training. Federal and local law enforcement remain the primary channels for reporting suspected criminal activity involving minors.
As the case progresses, federal filings and court appearances will provide additional detail on the evidence and the timeline of the undercover operation. Community members seeking updates should watch for statements from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI and local courts.
— Elliot Vance, State Correspondent
