The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) has chosen Officers Chad Rossow and Charles Cobble of the Warren Police Department (Michigan) as the Officers of the Month for June 2023. Both officers’ exceptional response during a welfare check of a juvenile male helped avoid a potential tragedy.
In an incident that unfolded with rapid urgency and concern, Officers Rossow and Cobble responded promptly to a 911 call of a report on a juvenile male with a handgun pointed at his head near a closed business. The caller expressed genuine concern for the juvenile’s safety due to his alarming actions. Upon arrival at the scene, Officer Rossow immediately took control of the situation and approached the 17-year-old male, who was visibly distressed and crying, holding the loaded handgun to his head, and expressing a desire to end his life. With courage and empathy, Officer Rossow effectively communicated with the young individual in an attempt to de-escalate the highly sensitive and dangerous circumstances. Officer Rossow, in a matter of mere minutes, succeeded in persuading the individual to relinquish the firearm, diffusing the immediate threat to his life. With the handgun safely dropped, Officer Cobble joined in to provide additional support. In a commendable display of restraint and compassion, Officer Cobble securely handled the emotional juvenile without resorting to the use of force, prioritizing the young man’s well-being above all else.
“The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund commends Officers Rossow and Cobble for their exceptional bravery, professionalism, and dedication to protecting and serving the community,” said Bill Alexander, Executive Director of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. “Their exemplary handling of this situation serves as a testament to the vital role law enforcement officers play in safeguarding lives and preserving the well-being of those they serve.”