A hotel owner from Brattleboro is currently being held without bail following serious criminal accusations stemming from an emergency response at a local hotel. The incident involved an unconscious woman at the Travelodge on Putney Road, triggered by a report received shortly before 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 6.

Emergency personnel arrived on the scene to find a 38-year-old woman partially covered by a blanket, exhibiting noticeable injuries to her arms and face. Blood was observed on the bed in close proximity to her, and she was promptly taken to Brattleboro Memorial Hospital for further medical evaluation. Investigators later interviewed her there under sworn testimony.

In a detailed affidavit, Detective Lt. Greg Eaton noted that the woman accused the hotel owner, identified as Neil, of sexual assault. This person was later confirmed to be Bankim Aghera, aged 52, who manages and owns the Travelodge. The victim claimed that Aghera entered her room without consent, forcibly disrobed her, and assaulted her despite her efforts to resist. She also recalled being struck in the head during the episode, leading to a loss of consciousness. Medical assessments indicated injuries consistent with her allegations, including bruises around her eye.

Following the incident, Aghera was taken into custody at the hotel, where police secured the environment and obtained surveillance footage. A search warrant subsequently allowed investigators to collect evidence from the hotel room and office, including bedding, clothing, and video equipment.

He faces charges of aggravated assault and sexual assault as per Vermont law. In Windham Superior Court, Judge Michael Kainen mandated that Aghera remain in custody without bail, emphasizing the gravity of the charges and public safety risks. He entered a plea of not guilty but requested an attorney, subsequently declining further communication with the investigators. Records reveal that Aghera does not have a previous criminal background, and a hearing will be scheduled to assess the possibility of his release under conditional terms as the case unfolds.