On the night of December 17, 2009, while patrolling Route 140, in Carroll County, Corporal Rebecca Bosley and Trooper First Class Christopher Meekins observed a suspicious looking SUV, backed into an unlit area next to a storage facility.  While exercising officer safety skills, they approached the vehicle and observed a scoped, semiautomatic rifle in the front passenger seat next to the driver. 

After a few tense moments, Corporal Bosley and TFC Meekins urged the driver to exit the vehicle without the rifle.  While securing the driver, an inspection of the rifle revealed it was loaded with five rounds, including one in the chamber.

The driver revealed he had the rifle aimed at the front door of a business located across the street, which at the time was still occupied by multiple patrons and employees.  The driver stated he was just looking after the business. 

While on the scene, the troopers learned the driver was actually a former business partner of the current establishment he was so called, ‘watching’ and that he had an on-going dispute with the current owner. 

Based on the position of the vehicle, the loaded rifle, and the circumstances of the dispute, it became apparent the current business owner’s life was in danger.  The driver was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless endangerment and possession of a loaded firearm.  Corporal Bosley and TFC Meekins also assisted the targeted victim in obtaining a protective order to help ensure his safety.

The efforts of Corporal Bosley and TFC Meekins proved that the citizens of Carroll County and the local business owner were protected without knowledge of ever being in danger.  For their keen observation skills, initiative and courageous actions, which prevented a potential murder, Corporal Rebecca Bosley and Trooper First Class Christopher Meekins are awarded Superintendent’s Salutes.