Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
February 23, 2023. Officer Jenn Scott responded to a shoplifting call at a store along Philips Highway and approached the suspect, Joseph Merrill. Officer Scott’s life changed in that moment. Without warning, Merrill attacked her, beating her on the sidewalk.
Thankfully, Sergeant Steven Rudlaff happened to be driving past Officer Scott and witnessed the attack. He stopped the suspect and called 911, getting Officer Scott the lifesaving rescue she needed.
Merrill left Officer Scott with a broken jaw and a head injury - issues she still deals with to this day.
Sergeant Rudlaff said it best: “You take an oath to serve and protect. Sometimes, unfortunately, you have to protect your own.” We’re grateful Sergeant Rudlaff jumped into action and saved Officer Scott from this attack.
Officer Scott’s road to recovery has not been easy, but she has never given up. She recently had another surgery to repair her jaw as she hopes to get back to full duty. She now plays an integral role in our Health and Wellness Section, using her experience to provide care and support to other officers.
On May 13, Merrill pleaded guilty to attacking Officer Scott. He will spend nearly 30 years behind bars for his actions.
February 23, 2023. Officer Jenn Scott responded to a shoplifting call at a store along Philips Highway and approached the suspect, Joseph Merrill. Officer Scott’s life changed in that moment. Without warning, Merrill attacked her, beating her on the sidewalk.
Thankfully, Sergeant Steven Rudlaff happened to be driving past Officer Scott and witnessed the attack. He stopped the suspect and called 911, getting Officer Scott the lifesaving rescue she needed.
Merrill left Officer Scott with a broken jaw and a head injury - issues she still deals with to this day.
Sergeant Rudlaff said it best: “You take an oath to serve and protect. Sometimes, unfortunately, you have to protect your own.” We’re grateful Sergeant Rudlaff jumped into action and saved Officer Scott from this attack.
Officer Scott’s road to recovery has not been easy, but she has never given up. She recently had another surgery to repair her jaw as she hopes to get back to full duty. She now plays an integral role in our Health and Wellness Section, using her experience to provide care and support to other officers.
On May 13, Merrill pleaded guilty to attacking Officer Scott. He will spend nearly 30 years behind bars for his actions.
