Casper Star-Tribune Online

Advanced Search

Paramedic gets $250,000, apology from Rawlins

Story Tools

Print this story

E-mail this story

Rate this story

Text Size

Share This Story:

trib.popular

By TOM MORTON
Star-Tribune staff writer

Thursday, July 24, 2008 6:40 AM MDT

A paramedic learned to deal with sexual assaults by a former Rawlins police captain when she was a teenager by going to a place where it didn't hurt so much.

Stephanie Faber went to Iraq.

"She's in Iraq and she's taking care of people who are seriously injured and it helps her deal with her own pain," her attorney Fred Harrison said Wednesday.

Faber, a contract worker for Kellogg and Root, has cared for wounded soldiers and has been under attack, he said.

"Iraq, amazingly enough, has given her a breather," Harrison said.

Faber, now 27, settled a federal civil rights lawsuit with the city of Rawlins and Adam "Lee" Meacham for $250,000. They city will also acknowledge the assaults occurred and will take steps to prevent other occurrences in the future, he said.

"She's doing very well considering what happened to her," Harrison said. "She's very committed in not wanting this to happen to anyone else."

The first assault occurred in 1996 when she was 15 and in Meacham's patrol car during a "ride-along" program set up by the Rawlins Police Department. Meacham assaulted her two other times at his home before she turned 18, according to court documents.

Faber coped with the assaults by closing her mind in what psychiatrists call "dissociative amnesia," which can be a component of post-traumatic stress disorder, Harrison said.

"That's how children cope with abuse," he said. "They disassociate that memory in order to survive."

Dissociative amnesia is different from repressed memories, which can be very difficult to prove at trial, Harrison said.

While on an ambulance call in Florida to care for a 4-year-old girl who had been raped, Faber's memories came back with a vengeance, leading to a suicide attempt. Her parents called an attorney who notified the Carbon County attorney.

Harrison sharply criticized Wyoming's justice system for failing to prosecute Meacham on criminal charges despite a recommendation to do so from an investigator in 2004.

So Faber sued in April 2007.

The case, which was against Meacham and the city of Rawlins, was scheduled for trial on July 7 before U.S. District Judge Alan Johnson in Cheyenne.

The case was vacated when settlement talks began in June, according to court documents.

Meacham did not return a phone call seeking comment on Wednesday, nor did Richard Rideout who represented Rawlins.

Meacham adamantly denied any sexual contact happened, according to the pretrial memorandum. He noted Faber did not file the claims about the alleged incidents with the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation until five years after she turned 18. Faber also saw him since the alleged incidents, according to the memorandum.

In Rawlins' final pretrial memorandum, the city agreed with Meacham, adding it responsibly oversaw the ride-along program and police department actions.

The city also claimed the relationship between Meacham and Faber was consensual.

But Faber, through Harrison and attorney John Robinson of Casper, responded that the city knew about Meacham's behavior "as a liar, a womanizer, and a terrible leader." Meacham also had parties at his home with minor girls, alcohol and other officers.

During the course of litigation, reports of two other alleged rapes by Meacham surfaced, and Harrison noted that any so-called consent by Faber was while Meacham was in uniform and armed, according to court documents.

The settlement -- paid for by the city's and Wyoming's insurance pools -- showed Faber's allegations were true and that Rawlins could have prevented the assaults, Harrison said.

Criminal prosecution of Meacham is still possible, and the state could decertify him as a peace officer, he added.

Meacham, who is in his early 40s, took medical retirement in late 2006.

Faber will be returning to Florida from Iraq, and will have to resume therapy for what happened in Rawlins, Harrison said.

The money will cover her expenses for care and future needs, but it wasn't the object of the lawsuit, Harrison said.

"Stephanie has proven that not even the second in command of the Rawlins Police Department and a Carbon County Commissioner and the son of prominent parents in the community is above the law," he said. "The rule of law applies to everyone."

Reach Tom Morton at (307) 266-0616, or at Tom.Morton@trib.com.


Survey shows misconceptions about meth		Wyoming briefs

Article Rating

Reader Comments

There are 63 comment(s)

Comments to this story.

Hang Him wrote on Jul 24, 2008 11:20 AM:

" So the City of Rawlins has acknowledged in writing that Meacham is a child molestor and rapist. And no charges have been filed? Not even a decertification to keep him from becoming a cop in another town? What's the delay? "

Unbelieveable wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:58 PM:

" It is incomprehensible that the molester is not made to sign up as a sex offender, and has not yet faced criminal charges. The sacred trust put in the police is severely blemished by this cretin and the others like him. "

Sweetwater wrote on Jul 24, 2008 2:42 PM:

" I have no room for sex offenders. This perv needs to be rounded up and beaten with a hammer. Hey Rawlins, ya think maybe you otta take his badge away, at the very least? 'Medical retirement' at 40 don't cut it. That's another word for welfare. String this bum up. "

WHATEVERRRRRRRR wrote on Jul 24, 2008 3:51 PM:

" WHAT IS WRONG WITH THE CITY OF RAWLINS?? GET HIM IN PRISONNNNNN ASAP!!! ILL BET THERES ALOT MORE HIGH POWERED NAMES GONNA COME OUT WHEN EVERYBODY STEPS UP TO THE PLATE AND DEMANDS JUSTICE. MY GOD!!! I SAY INSTEAD OF RUNNING WITH THE BULLS LETS LET ALL CRIMALS OUT AND RUN THREW IT AND WE CAN STONE THEM LIKE WE DID IN THE OLDEN DAYS "

Atlantic Rim wrote on Jul 24, 2008 4:35 PM:

" Why has this scumbag Meacham not been arrested? The city has already conceded that the rape took place, and they know who did it. They also know where he lives, because he gets a 'medical retirement' check from the city, what ever that is. Is the DA playing golf today? Tick Tock Tick Tock. "

Frustrated wrote on Jul 24, 2008 4:46 PM:

" Meacham worked on the local force and is related to a former judge in the area...hmmm...and people wonder why he hasn't been prosecuted. "

ChangedMind wrote on Jul 24, 2008 7:29 PM:

" My family and I were looking at purchasing some additional grazing land near Rawlins, but as a mother of teens this story gives me pause. I think I might keep looking in my part of WY. And talk to my legislators about making these sorts register as sex offenders, and be ineligible for any public retirement system benefits. "

Protest anyone wrote on Jul 24, 2008 8:12 PM:

" Medical retirement? So we're paying for this bum pervert to just hang out and do who knows what? There's PLENTY wrong with Rawlins and with any 'judicial system" that let's someone like that walk. Someone look up the definiation of "consensual" when it's a kid and "grown up" with a GUN and a position of authority. The attorneys who defended this guy should be watched carefully. So should the judge the bum's related to.
Perhaps this will encourage other young girls who've been raped by this "man" to step up and tell someone. There's power in numbers.
If this guy is still living in Rawlins, he better register as a sex offender...that's the LAW, right?
Keep us posted on folllow up from this. Surely somebody will care enough to make him pay instead of having us tax payers pay for his worthless life for the next 40 years. "

poky wrote on Jul 24, 2008 8:16 PM:

" So in Wyoming, you could shoot a wolf, but guys like this get a retirement check from the community whose children they're raping?
Interesting. Stupid, but it makes for an unbelievable story. "

Wonder wrote on Jul 24, 2008 8:34 PM:

" It is no wonder has the reputation that it does! "

Coincidental wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:01 PM:

" How interesting that another "police officer" doesn't get prosecuted for a sexual offense. It happened in Casper several years ago and although there were multiple victims, the creep got off anyway! And people wonder why the victims do not want to go through all the trauma and humiliation just to have these guys walk!!!! "

Confused wrote on Jul 24, 2008 10:24 PM:

" I hate to admit that I know a man that has been accused of talking to a young girl on the internet inaproprialty. He is in Federal prison for talking. He never met anyone and he will be doing 25 years to life in federal prison. How does someone get away with raping a teenager and get retirment and no prison time? I think the FBI needs to be notified of what is going on in Rawlins!! "

Disgusted wrote on Jul 25, 2008 2:03 AM:

" In today’s society we have become so numb to what’s going on that it takes stories like this to wake us from our lives. The unfortunate thing is that this happens across the country. Our children are the most precious thing and to see the abuses by those in power not only to perform such heinous acts, but to also protect those who perform such crimes against everything we hold so dear is unacceptable. That there are other such cases, I have no doubt. My hats off to organizations like Carbon County COVE and RAINN that help these women get their lives back and find a safe place to talk. May we all find ways to continue to support this and other women who face these challenges. As citizens we are responsible to do what we can to create a safe and healthy environment for our children and those of the community. Evidently there is a breakdown in this concept since the people we are entrusting that safety to seem to be unable to attain that standard. The entire governmental structure has a lot of work to do to earn the respect of its people back. The support of internal criminals is an incompetent example of what they are capable of. Perhaps the righting of wrongs will be their first step towards becoming an administration that people can have faith in. "

Beyond the Law wrote on Jul 25, 2008 1:59 PM:

" If Rawlins is not going to step up, why hasn't Carbon County or DCI gone in and picked this guy up? What are they waiting for? They want to see if he molests more children first? Get the guy, for crying out loud. Can't be that difficult. "

Everett wrote on Jul 25, 2008 4:41 PM:

" Nothing like letting a child molester walk. They haven't even made an ATTEMPT to arrest him yet? Maybe the City of Rawlins should go ahead and give him a license to run a day care too, while they're slacking. Don't want to hurt his feelings or anything. "

The Count Down Starts wrote on Jul 25, 2008 5:18 PM:

" A child molester who is also a cop? Those other inmates at the state pen are going to LOVE this guy in the showers. That is if the city would actually drive over to the guy's trailer and arrest him. Probably a lot of paper work though. Maybe next week. Tick Tock Tick Tock. "

To Serve and Protect wrote on Jul 25, 2008 5:34 PM:

" Consensual? Really. So the Rawlins Police Department is advising 40-year old men to go out and find a 13-year-old girl to have a sexual affair with, and they'll write it off as consensual? That's no longer felony statutory rape? Good advice, Mayor. Real leadership material there. "

Medical Retirement wrote on Jul 25, 2008 5:52 PM:

" Medical retirement? What does that mean? The guy is 40. What is a 'medical retirement anyway?' He doesn't qualify for conventiional disability? Does that mean he collects a public pension for having his own special disability of being 'too perverted for continued service?' And why does this guy still have his badge if he has such a debilitating ilness that he needs to retire at 40? Something doesn't add up here. "

To Catch a Predator wrote on Jul 25, 2008 10:18 PM:

" Why is this guy still walking around? Is the entire Rawlins PD on vacation right now? Go get him before he skips town and starts up another 'ride-along' program with little girls. What a freak. "

RA wrote on Jul 26, 2008 8:50 AM:

" Boy! You send your young daughter with a police officer on a "ride around" and she gets raped! Who can you trust? "

wyoming wrote on Jul 26, 2008 10:46 AM:

" There is more to this story: The then county attorney had Sheridens County Attorney review the case. After this was done the last county attorney would'nt file charges. Carbon County now has a new County Attorney and I truley feel that she will do everything in her power to see that justice is served in this case. "

OUTRAGED in California wrote on Jul 26, 2008 11:32 AM:

" I am Outraged and so should the state of Wyoming be.
RAWLINS Stop adding insult to injury, clean it up and all who covered it up. How can Stephanie's parents, family, friends and other citizens in Rawlins feel anything but absolutely insulted by his continued freedom and use of their hard earned tax dollars? Take away the "pension" and the badge immediately. I do not want him showing up in my city or any other looking for a job! Put him where the sun don't shine!!! Pray for his sole as we pray healing for sweet Stephanie, her family and all the others who have suffered by his actions. "

Perv Ball wrote on Jul 26, 2008 5:38 PM:

" If they can lock guys up for perverted internet stuff with little girls, then they could definitely be locking this guy up for perverted ACTUAL stuff with little girls. Throw him on the ground. Break his pervert arms. "

Disgusted wrote on Jul 27, 2008 6:10 PM:

" From what I understand that most officers knew about this also so why did we not inform and keep up until something was done. Oh well we don't want to lose our jobs. Right. This is the reason our government is the mess it is no one wants to take responsibility. "

wyoming blows wrote on Jul 27, 2008 11:49 PM:

" Why isn't this pig in prison? Lousy no good chickenhawk wyoming cops. "

Perve and Protect wrote on Jul 28, 2008 1:18 PM:

" Remember this guy's name: Meacham. When he comes looking for a job, remember that he's a child molester and he cost his last employer 250,000 to settle a statutory rape case. Meacham. "

mad wrote on Jul 28, 2008 1:50 PM:

" What about the Chief what is he covering up he was Lee's friend and how many other cover it up that work there. "

Rawlins wrote on Jul 28, 2008 1:55 PM:

" What about the other Officers that work their and cover it up and they are still working for the Rawlins Police Dept. I think they need to clean house "

Obvious Case wrote on Jul 28, 2008 4:30 PM:

" If the city admits the rape in a civil case, it can not deny the rape in a criminal case. Therefore, why has the city not pursued criminal charges? Make this guy defend himself. What is the city waiting for? "

The State Pen is Mightier Than the Sword wrote on Jul 28, 2008 5:21 PM:

" I don't tolerate child molesters, and I vote. Remember that, Mayor Klouda. How you handle this will be your ultimate test. Get the charges filed today. We're all watching, and it will not go away. We are ALL watching. "

Close to case wrote on Jul 28, 2008 8:25 PM:

" This pig (not to link him to the police, that is another story) has been getting away with thinking he is above the law for years. I am not sure how someone like this can be promoted to the #2 position in the police department and VOTED in as county commissioner, but there are many people that need to dig deep within themselves to get the answer. I know this pig and I know his type, he has left a wake of hurting people. Some of these people will never heal from what "pig" has done. I for one can say in a land where good people come to raise a family need to open their eyes. It is time for a good old fashioned western lynching, but lets do it the NEW way, with the VOTE!! Time to show all of the people voted or hired to provide protection for the community where that pay check actually comes from. For god's sake, lets do the right thing and put this guy away once and for all. Lets make sure all the police left in his wake know how wrong this is. When you have a bad apple in the basket, you need to clean it out. This bad apple was allowed to show al the other apples that if you are a good ol' boy with the right name, you can do almost anything. Well not anymore!!!

Thanks Mr. Harrison for a job well done. "

wyoming wrote on Jul 28, 2008 9:02 PM:

" Give the new Carbon County Attorney the chance to review the case. She is not one to tolerate this and I feel that she will do the right thing. Those that are shouting at the City of Rawlins to file criminal charges its not up to them it is up to the County Attorney. Yes they should take the steps to have him decertified as a Wyo Peace Officer. I also agree those that may have ahad knowledge should be removed as well. "

McDowell wrote on Jul 29, 2008 9:45 AM:

" Wyoming, the County Attorney already has what they need to bring Meacham up on charges. A witness, a victim, a confession from the city. Additional evidence can be gathered in the months while he is detained and awaiting trial. To get a warrant and detain him right now on suspicion, they only need enough evidence to make him a lead suspect. They have more than enough to do that... obviously. So what is the county attorney waiting for? "

CPD wrote on Jul 29, 2008 10:10 AM:

" No reason this guy should not have been arrested yet. What is wrong with the mayor and County Attorney in Rawlins? They have a confession and payout from the guy's employer. That means the employer knows something, and they are now a witness. They also have corroborated testimony from the victim. Open and shut. And what the hell is 'medical retirement' when you are 40. This guy better be in a wheel chair if he's pulling off welfare like that. Bring him in. Anybody awake at City Hall in Rawlins? Hello? "

Rogers wrote on Jul 29, 2008 10:27 AM:

" Once the City confessed that their employee (who they had previously been defending), committed rape, they should have coordinated that confession with an arrest. Confessing in the civil case opens the door instantly for prosecution in the criminal case. And I mean instantly, not next week. Given that the case involves child molesting, the sooner the better on making the arrest, and getting the perpertator detained. "

Close to case wrote on Jul 29, 2008 1:12 PM:

" Okay Wyoming, you are correct that the Country Attorney needs time to make a decision. What about all the other boobs in the know. Most have been there throughout the entire time of this "PIGS" time with the police. It is time once and for all to stop making excuses and take action. It seems kind of funny to me that the word "suspicion" would come out, the city has just paid out $250K on suspicion? Come on.. This is not Washington politics, it's Wyoming. Seems to me the state taht sent us our current VP could take action against this spineless little fraction of a man!!!!! "

Message in a Cuisinart wrote on Jul 29, 2008 3:12 PM:

" We deeply regret that our officer raped you while on duty. He is a criminal predator, and he is not representative of the Department. We want you to know that we take these kinds of sex offenses with children very seriously. Here is $250,000 in restitution, and a written apology from the Department.'

'Yeah, so when are you going to arrest him?'

'Arrest him for what? Who says he did anything?' "

Rawlins citizen wrote on Jul 29, 2008 4:28 PM:

" There is alot more to this than what the story says. And If anyone takes a mere newspaper article as 100% fact than maybe you should question your intelligence. If anyone wants to point fingers than point it at not just at Wyoming's Justice system but the entire countries justice system. Remember this is the country where a cup of hot coffee in your lap will get you 10million dollars. The RPD and other local authorities can only do so much, and they have. Thanks to all the ACLU and other such groups that protect molesters "civil rights" people can get away with anything they want to. "

Hanna Citizen wrote on Jul 29, 2008 6:29 PM:

" Rawlins Citizen, nice try. The ACLU didn't molest that girl. The Rawlins Police Department did. Or was that written apology and the $250,000 from RPD for something else? You need to open your eyes and quit apologizing for sexual predators here. Unless maybe you are one. Bottom line is, there is a child molester walking around Rawlins right now on 'medical retirement' because the RPD has not served the warrant yet. You can blame other people, but 'other people' did not drop the ball. That's all RPD. "

wyoming wrote on Jul 29, 2008 9:02 PM:

" Close to case I was in law enforcement for many years in Carbon County and the rumors were always there about things going on with the officers at Rawlins Police Department. And I agree if they can prove knowledge of other officers then there should be action taken. I know Lee and now that the rumors have been proven to be true he should be charged. There again I say give Cindy Delancy the chance to make a wrong right. But on the other hand there are some very good officer in Rawlins so lets not give them all a black eye because of this. "

Close to case wrote on Jul 29, 2008 9:16 PM:

" ACLU?? Are you serious, you are blaming the ACLU and attorneys for this "PIGS" actions? Then the lack of action and continuing lack of action of the Rawlins legal system. To set the story closer to straight, the person that sued McDonalds was originally awarded a large settlement, but that was lowered after MANY appeals from McDonalds, the by the way has made plenty of money on slopping bad coffee. Now back to the story at hand, in your town there is a man walking around free, free to paying his bills with your free tax dollars because he has been "medically retired", and free to rape again.... and again..... And again.... This guy has been on the take for so long that little bit of money McDonalds had to pay for slopping coffee seems more like the peanuts McDonalds give you for free.

If you think about it, let’s say he was making $65,000 a year when he "retired" at 40 years old. Using the good dog/bad dog theory this "PIG" will live for another 40-50 years. Lets estimate the retirement at $45,000 a year, plus medical, dental, $15,000 a year. If he draws retirement for the next 45 years, the good people of Rawlins will pay him $2,700,000.00. YES $2.7 million! I guess rape in Rawlins really does pay, that make the ACLU look more like a Right Wing Religious organization in comparison. Sleep well Rawlins. That sound you hear is the financial drain with the plug pulled.... "

Rawlins citizen wrote on Jul 29, 2008 10:13 PM:

" Hanna Citizen:

Just FYI here... the ACLU has a long history of defending many child molesters from all over the country, look it up yourself. EVERY city in America has child molesters living in them. Its a sick world we live in. The RPD didnt molest any girl. One man did. And FYI dont you think its ironic that this sexual relationship supposedly went on for many years and she never once told anyone? She never lived with him but supposedly was always over at his house sneaking around town in the middle of the night? This "girl" doesnt sound so innocent to me. Sounds like she was a party girl and once she turned 18 she realized she make lots of money from sleeping around. And as I recall the RPD hasnt paid one dime or made any type of written response of apology. Warrants? There isn't a warrant to be served and if there was one put out BY THE COUNTY, NOT THE RPD then it would be served. Police departments dont and cant issue out warrants, only judges can. Know your information before making ignorant statements in public. The RPD didnt drop any ball... There is always two sides to every story. Bottom line, a young unsupervised teenager who was sleeping around with a grown man who happened to be a police officer got caught and covered her tail by saying she was "molested" for years and years by someone who didnt even live with her or who wasnt even a relative (someone with no access unless she went to him...) and now she created a sob story to the press and got a quarter of a million dollars. I personally think she played the system well. She got everything she wanted. And no I'm not a child molester and I dont care for your false, slandering, illegal accusations either. "

Maverick wrote on Jul 30, 2008 1:31 PM:

" Rawlins, first you said RPD didn't molest the girl - 'one mad did.' Then you said she wasn't molested at all, that it was her fault for being a 'party girl.' So you have not only contradicted yourself, you don't make any sense to begin with. Bottom line is this: The act committed was illegal, and the officer knew that when he did it. By apologizing for a child molester, you sound like a child molester too. "

The Better Rawlins Citizen wrote on Jul 30, 2008 3:39 PM:

" Why is this guy still walking around? He's a child molester. Not that complicated. "

Careful reading wrote on Jul 30, 2008 7:50 PM:

" Any person that makes reference to Stephanie as a "party girl" should be smacked! If this person knew anything about the Faber family they would not have said what they did! There is an ideation that goes with the title of a police officer as with any public profession. When making reference to persons image that you do not know, take note to be careful. Victums read the newspaper too! I feel for you to take such notion to do is to attempt the fate of law on the internet and not play the game of reality! Unless you know each party fully and understand the full ramification of your words keep quite! Use you words and actions in a way that will make a statement but do not claims to that you cannot support! As far as the money, guess you didn't really read the article. Money was not the object of the game you say she plays! "

Family Friend wrote on Jul 30, 2008 9:14 PM:

" The family has asked that everyone stop trying this case in the media. If you read the areticle carefully you will know it was not about money. The family is not in need of money. It was about vindication for a wrong done not only by RPD officer , but for those who know this man was considered a close family friend, he was at family dinners and activieties. it was a matter aof betrayal of not only civil trust but personal trust.

For the person who called Ms Faber a party girl you obviously do not know the family or the young woman involved. They were strong in thier church, 4.0 student . strong athlete active in plays and all activities at her school.

IYou shoul not make comment from gossip you hear but only based on facts . Unless you were at one of the many parties Mr. Meacham had where young girls and young men were allowed to attend. If you were there why didnt you do somethng if you knew it was going and and you knew it was wrong .. dont judge if you dont know the truth and only the ugley gossip.

Enough said. "

some guy wrote on Jul 31, 2008 12:42 AM:

" Rawlins, when is any kind of sex (rape/molestation/consensual) between a minor and a police officer acceptable? I'm not sure I see how her reputation is relevant since the officer's actions would have been equally illegal and morally reprehensible if she had been the most chaste person in the world or if she had, in fact, been a "party girl" (whatever that is). Also, it's not in the least bit ironic that she would wait until much later to come forward. Forget about the fact that rape victims often don't come forward right away for a second. Would you be chomping at the bit to come forward as a minor when the man you're accusing is an apparently well connected officer of the law? It's pretty easy to be brave from that armchair, isn't it? Finally, I see you've blamed everyone but the officer involved: you've blamed the parents (noting she was "unsupervised"), you've blamed her (apparently being a "party girl" is makes her just as reprehensible as a rapist, whether statutory or forced) and you've blamed the system (which MUST have been her motive for coming forward, since she hasn't been victimized at all). Doesn't sound like you're looking at this with a very "2 sided" perspective to me. "

Rawlins Citizen wrote on Jul 31, 2008 9:07 AM:

" Maverick,

" Rawlins, first you said RPD didn't molest the girl - 'one mad did.' Then you said she wasn't molested at all, that it was her fault for being a 'party girl.' So you have not only contradicted yourself, you don't make any sense to begin with. '

FYI there maverick... when in my paragraph did I say it was her fault for being a party girl and she was never molested at all... those words never came from me. All I stated was she didn't sound so innocent to me, and FYI and everyone else in here... a 16 year old is not a "child" and show me one 16 year old these days who isn't sexually active. And no I'm not all defending meacham at all, nor am I apologizing for him. I don't know who the guy is. Everyone is so quick to say hang him and give her all the money she wants.... when there is ALWAYS two sides to the story. She isn't innocent, and neither is he. I don't make any sense at all? Try actually reading what I write instead of reading between the lines and getting all upset. I don't know you and you don't know me, and for you to shoot your mouth off about me t tells me alot about yourself. "

Close to Case wrote on Jul 31, 2008 12:36 PM:

" Wow, this looks like the same old thing that seems to happen over and over again! Blame the victim, blame the system and build up a good smoke screen to hide the truth. The truth is, this "PIG" was a hired to protect the public, placed in a position of trust within the community and violated that trust in more than one way. It is NEVER okay for a grown man to have sex with a minor. Consensual sex with a minor is not possible, consensual sex with a minor as a police officer while on duty, on a city sponsored ride along.... that should be criminal. It not only defies the general standards that most of America lives by, it defy all sense of logic. The reality is this "PIG" should have protected her, not taken advantage of her. If she were a "party" girl, would it not be his duty to protect her? If he truly had been a trusted neighbor and friend then would it not be his duty as a human just to talk to her parents about his concern? The sad facts are, instead of using the power/authority granted to him to take advantage of her and of the situation she found herself in.

As long as we are stating facts, the fact is this is not the first time he has been accused of rape, and most likely not the last. The other sad truth is the very people that he worked for were protecting him from these charges and used the same despicable tactics used in this forum to discount the victim and protect him. Protect and serve?? Doctors take a pledge to "Do not harm"! Too bad the same cannot be said for the police it seems they have taken the pledge to do no investigation against one of their own. RPD is filled with the "good ol boy" syndrome and this is just a look through the peep hole into the backwards world. You know the world, if someone accuses one of your own, you should shoot the messenger. If one of your own goes off track, to protect your own ass, you should hide facts, shred records, and lie, lie, lie. Those that have done all of these things will have to answer to a higher power. It seems that higher power will not come from our legal system, but I am convinced they will be held accountable and I would not want to be in their shoes when that happens.

This is the last posting from "Close to Case" and I will leave it in the hands of the good people of Rawlins. You deserve better than this from your elected officials and those hired to protect you. What has been going on within your police department for years is not right and for sure not normal. Somehow along the way they have really gotten off track and in some small way this case might nudge the process a little closer to normal. It is a slow road and a hard row to hoe, but hang in there. In the end, the truth will come out and those that did not take action when they could have will be held accountable.

God Speed Rawlins!! "

Rawlins Citizen wrote on Jul 31, 2008 1:09 PM:

" Here is another question..... why isn't the Faber family pressing charges criminally????????? People have said in here that" it isn't about the money as to why the Fabers have sued.." Well then, if it wasn't about the money I find it weird that the family gets a quarter of a million dollars and suddenly there not pressing charges in criminal court... I guess money does by happiness "

Frustrated wrote on Jul 31, 2008 8:42 PM:

" Here's another tid bit. Meacham's wife has a kid from a previous marriage that she's trying to get custody of - the kid would have to live in that house. Why hasn't DCI stepped in over that one?

Hopefully this media spotlight brings change to the system - and won't let it happen. "

Former RPD Officer wrote on Aug 1, 2008 12:08 AM:

" To everyone in here:

Many of you have made some good and bad points. As far as the good points goes, yes meacham should be tried criminally and serve prison time for sex with a minor. What he did was 100% wrong and illegal and he has given the RPD a black eye. As far as the RPD goes, it is one of the most professional, well quipped law enforcement agencies in the state. Unfortunately every company, family, and even police department has one bad apple in the bunch. This is the world we live in folks. Some comments like close to case make:

"....Too bad the same cannot be said for the police it seems they have taken the pledge to do no investigation against one of their own. RPD is filled with the "good ol boy" syndrome and this is just a look through the peep hole into the backwards world. You know the world, if someone accuses one of your own, you should shoot the messenger. If one of your own goes off track, to protect your own ass, you should hide facts, shred records, and lie, lie, lie. Those that have done all of these things will have to answer to a higher power...."

Sir, you are incredibly ignorant to tie my former PD into a statement like that. I could say more but I'll be the professional. Here is a fact for you mr. "close to case" when a PD Officer gets into ANY kind of trouble from anything like speeding in his or her own personal vehicle complaint to something more serious like in mr. meachams case, sexual assault on a minor, AN OUTSIDE AGENCY HAS TO COME IN TO CONDUCT THE INVESTIGATION. We cannot do an investigation one one of our own. PERIOD So if you want to point fingers try DCI or the Carbon County SO. They are the ones supposed to be conducting a criminal investigation, not the RPD. Why these agencies haven't done anything is still mystery to me. Personally I don't like meacham, never have or will. My true opinion of the man I'm not allowed to write it out here. So many of you in here that say hang him for his actions I couldn't agree more with all of you. As far as Stephanie Faber goes.... she is a victim, yes. Does she deserve money from the City and State, yes. Is she 100% innocent, no. And based off of my experience and first hand knowledge I will leave it at that.

Well I hope that helps some people out in here with this whole mess, hope everyone has a good night. "

Family friend wrote on Aug 4, 2008 1:03 PM:

" Former RPD and others who had so called experience and first hand knowledge. If you knew why didnt you do something it was your sworn duety. But glad you admit she was victim. And again their are so very good people on the RPD and In the town of Rawlins . There are just those that need to do thier job. As did DCI but not the justice system.

and I will leave it at that.. "

Medical Retirement wrote on Aug 4, 2008 9:36 PM:

" Meacham knew it was a criminal act when he did it. And then he did it anyway. He should be arrested at the very least. No more excuses. No more dilly-dallying or thumb-twiddling. Drive over there and arrest the idiot before he moves to another town and does it all again. "

Lionel wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:41 PM:

" This Meacham creep is rotten to the core. I was on the force in St. Louis for eleven years, and the only way to deal with predators like Meacham is to make an example out of them. As a Department, you have to come down hard. 'Medical retirement' at the age of 40 is the opposite of hard. This guy knowingly committed felony statutory rape, and was rewarded with a life time of welfare for it. Nail the idiot. Send him to prison. Quit jacking around down there. It's not that complicated. "

Present RPD Officer wrote on Aug 7, 2008 5:01 PM:

" I presently work for the RPD and am ashamed of the fact I have to live in the shadow of such a crime but I will tell you that there is not a more professional agency in the nation. To the individaul who wants to put down the department, I know this to be the act of a lone low life individual who used his position for his own gain without the knowledge or help of other officers. The administrative staff and its members of patrol have the highest standards and are trained to complete what ever task comes to the Dept. They are the most professional officers in the field of law enforcement in the nation. We are preveledged to have a number of officers that work for RPD as they are the best officers in the state. Before judging the department consider where the same types of crimes have occurred and lets move on knowing that this subject will pay, now or in the future. It is a shame that the outstanding officers of the RPD have to continually pay the price for the crime of another who acted alone. So if you have any questions get the facts of what truly happened before coming to a final judgement of the Rawlins Police Dept. "

lifelong resident wrote on Aug 16, 2008 12:32 AM:

" i feel that mike reed is just as crooked as lee was if he knew what was going on and did nothing to help those girls why won't the justice dept investigate and charge all those involved and those who covered it up maybe we fox or cnn to investigate and uncover what is really happening hear "

Cagney wrote on Aug 30, 2008 9:47 PM:

" To the Rawlins Citizen, you are an idiot. I can't believe you are trying to defend mr. perv and blame the girl with your 'she worked the system' routine. Only a friend of, or Mr. Perv himself, would have written those comments. And if you think the new county attorney has the knowledge or backbone to actually take this case on, your delusional. Look what happened with Harlow. "

Mrs Flint wrote on Sep 5, 2008 3:38 PM:

" IM so sorry this assault will probably affect this lovely persons whole journey through life .she is truly in my prayers!! 250,000 dollars is such a small price to payfor such a horrible act. I hope MR M. gets locked up in the old Territorial with a never ending supply of Rat traps. He would fit in with them just fine that would be such a great place for him! At least for his remaining years. take his retirement cash that our honest and hard working tax payers are giving the slimeball he wont need it anyways,Food? Heard RATS are good protein "

Revaew wrote on Sep 20, 2008 11:46 AM:

" Did I just hear that Mr. M is going to be going on out of town swim trips? Is our School Board Nuts too? Just give him the key to the schools and daycares too. I can not beleive there haven't been charges made, yet. By the way, Cindy D. (I think she's in over her head) has to make those charges not the family. Beleive me the family would like to see him charged and convicted. "

Revaew wrote on Oct 18, 2008 12:17 PM:

" Thought that there was a background check on people that work for the schools. Why don't Mrs. Mecham have custody of her own child. I think there are a lot of people not doing their jobs in our school district and government. Election is coming soon and maybe we the PEOPLE need to clean house. "

CLARK wrote on Nov 22, 2008 2:36 PM:

" WHAT HAPPENED TO INOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY? WHO ARE YOU TO JUDGE OTHERS, ESPECIALLY, BEFORE A CONVICTION IN A COURT OF LAW.

READ ROMANS CHAPTER 2: 1-4 & JUST MAYBE SOME OF YOU WILL FIGURE IT OUT.

I AM AN ADULT MALE WHO GREW UP IN RAWLINS. I LIVED THROUGH REPEATED MOLESTATIONS AS A CHILD IN RAWLINS. YOU DONT FORGET IT & REMEMBER IT AT A LATER DATE. IT STICKS IN YOUR HEAD FOR LIFE. THOSE WHO CLAIM THEY DONT REMEMBER & THEM LATER REMEMBERED ARE NOT PLAYING WITH A FULL DECK.

I AM A WHITNESS TO OFFICIALS IN THE RAWLINS AREA FAILING TO PROCECUTE OFFENDERS. THE ADULT WHO MOLESTED ME IS STILL WALKING THE STREETS OF RAWLINS. EVEN AFTER ADMITTING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS WHAT WAS DONE. BESAUSE THE INDIVIDUAL WAS A CITY OF RAWLINS COUNCIL MEMBER AT THE TIME THE CRIME WAS REPORTED, THEY DID NOT PROCECUTE THE INDIVIDUAL.

I HAVE LET IT GO & FORGIVEN THE INDIVIDUAL WHO MOLESTED ME WHEN I WAS 13 YEARS OLD. ITS IN GOD'S HANDS NOW.

THE BIBLE TEACHES THAT WE ARE TO FORGIVE THOSE WHO SIN AGAINST US. WHEN YOU DO THIS IT PUTS IT IN GOD'S HANDS & GOD'S COURTS. JESUS DOESNT MAKE MISTAKES. HE DOESNT SHOW PARTIALITY TO ANYONE. BUT HE DOES FORGIVE THOSE WHO CONFESS THIER SINS & ASK FOR GOD TO FORGIVE THEM IN THE NAME OF JESUS.

GOD GETS THE FINAL SAY IN EVERYTHING. IN THE LONG RUN IT DOESNT MATTER IF YOU OR I LIKE IT OR NOT. GOD DOESNT ASK FOR OUR OPINION BEFORE HE MAKES DECISIONS.

ALL SIN THAT IS UNDER THE BLOOD OF JESUS IS HISTORY. AS FAR AS THE EAST IS FROM THE WEST. & IF YOU TRY TO TAKE UP GOD'S AUTHORITY & ACT LIKE ITS YOUR PLACE TO JUDGE GOD'S PEOPLE IT MAY BE YOU WHO ENDS UP IN TROUBLE INSTEAD OF THE ONE YOU THINK SHOULD BE IN TROUBLE.

HE THAT HATH AN EAR GO FIGURE. "

Close to Case wrote on Dec 9, 2008 8:03 PM:

" Clark, I am sorry to hear about your molestation at a young age. As you know from your healing, it takes different people different ways to deal heal. It seems you have found forgiveness in God and the bible. To forgive is one thing, but to forget is another.

This is not the first time this cop has done this and without charging him in the courts he WILL do this again! Not only is he hired to protect and serve, but he should be a role model for young people to follow.

I hope and pray for you, and do not want to see harm come to this cop, but he NEEDS TO BE CHARGED!! It is amazing to me that the people of Rawlins allow this to continue on... "

Submit a Comment

We encourage your feedback and dialog, all comments will be reviewed by our Web staff before appearing on the Web site.

Please note: We provide our story commenting feature in order to solicit feedback, debate and discussion on topics of local interest. Please keep in mind that civility is a necessary component of productive conversation. All blatantly inflammatory or otherwise inappropriate comments (i.e. vulgarity, marketing, etc.) are subject to rejection and/or removal. Comments will appear if and when they are approved. Thanks for reading, and thanks for participating.