Ep 3. Alone and Outnumbered

In season 1 episode 3 of Rugged Justice, titled Alone and Outnumbered, viewers are taken on a thrilling ride along with the officers of the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife as they respond to calls for help in remote, rugged areas. The episode begins with Officer Chris Moszeter and his K9 partner, Turbo, tracking down a suspect who has been trespassing on private property and hunting without a license. As they close in on the suspect, they come across evidence of the illegal activities - dead deer carcasses and shell casings scattered across the forest floor.

As Officer Moszeter detains the suspect and brings him back to his patrol car, viewers get a glimpse into the daily life of these officers, who have to be prepared for anything at any given moment. They have to be skilled trackers, sharpshooters, and expert drivers, all while navigating difficult terrain and dangerous situations. But more than that, they have to have a deep understanding and appreciation for the natural world around them, as they work to protect animals and habitats from harm.

The next call the officers respond to is a distress signal from a hiker lost in the woods. A group of officers, including Moszeter, Officer Nick Jorg and Officer Eric Anderson, work together to locate the hiker, who is stranded and alone in the wilderness with no food or water. Using advanced tracking techniques and their knowledge of the terrain, they comb through the forest, calling out for the hiker and trying to track his movements.

As night falls and the search becomes more urgent, the officers have to rely on their instincts and resourcefulness to stay safe. They set up camp in a clearing, build a fire, and prepare for a long night ahead. The harrowing situation is a reminder of the dangers inherent in the job, and the immense pressure the officers face as they work to protect both people and wildlife in the rugged, unforgiving landscape.

As the search intensifies, the officers start to close in on the lost hiker's location, relying on their expert training and close-knit teamwork to navigate the difficult terrain. Finally, just as their supplies are running low and the night is growing darker, they hear a faint call for help in the distance. Rushing towards the sound, they find the hiker, cold and hungry, but alive.

The episode ends with a reminder of the deep bond between these officers and the wilderness they protect. From navigating treacherous mountain passes to tracking down poachers and lost hikers, they put their lives on the line every day in service to the natural world. Alone and outnumbered, they rely on their knowledge, skills, and each other to keep themselves and those they protect safe. And in doing so, they show us the incredible courage and dedication that drives them to do this vital work.