The Tobin Bolter Memorial Project and Scholarship Program was founded in heartfelt response to the extraordinary life and ultimate sacrifice of Deputy Sheriff Tobin Bolter—a devoted public servant, loving husband, expecting father, cherished friend, beloved son, and a man of unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. His life, defined by selfless service and deep conviction, continues to inspire a mission rooted in compassion, Gospel-centered hope, and a steadfast commitment to honoring those who serve and uplifting those in need.

On the morning of April 21, 2024, Deputy Sheriff Tobin Bolter tragically succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained the night before during a routine traffic stop near the intersection of W Overland Road and S Raymond Street in Boise, Idaho. Tobin had just exited his patrol vehicle and was approaching the stopped car when the driver opened fire and fled the scene. A courageous witness immediately called 911 and performed CPR on Deputy Bolter until emergency medical personnel arrived and transported him to a local hospital. Despite all efforts, Tobin passed away from his injuries.

At the time of his death, Deputy Bolter had only been serving with the Ada County Sheriff's Office for four months but had already left a profound impression on the department and the community. He brought with him seven years of law enforcement experience, having previously served with both the Meridian Police Department in Idaho and the Pleasant Hill Police Department in California. Tobin is survived by his wife, Abbey, who was expecting their first child—a reflection of the growing life and future he was building with faith and joy.

In a statement released by the Bolter and Wells families, the heart of who Tobin was shined through:

"Tobin's life has been a reflection of God's grace. He was a selfless man of conviction, giving God the glory in all circumstances. Tobin sacrificially loved his wife, Abbey. As a peace officer, Tobin was able to faithfully serve and protect his community because his foundation was deeply rooted in the hope of the gospel; he lived without fear. Tobin's vivacious spirit and selfless care for others were an encouragement to all who knew him."

A Vision Inspired by a Life Well-Lived

Born out of grief, love, and faith, the Tobin Bolter Memorial Project and Scholarship Program was created to honor Tobin’s legacy and reflect the values he lived by every day. Our vision is to build a Christ-centered community where sacrifice is honored, burdens are lifted through compassion, and future leaders are empowered to serve with unwavering faith and integrity. Tobin’s life serves as the model for this vision—a life marked by courage, devotion, and a deep-rooted commitment to the Gospel.

A Mission to Honor and Uplift

Our mission is to carry forward Tobin’s example through two key areas of impact:

Supporting Wounded Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians and other First Responders and Their Families – We provide financial assistance, essential resources, and spiritual care to officers injured in the line of duty and to the families who stand behind them. Inspired by Tobin’s own sacrifice, we seek to be a source of hope, healing, and honor to those who risk their lives for others.
Empowering Future Christian and Law Enforcement Leaders Through Education – We offer scholarships to students enrolled in accredited and committee-approved Christian Bible Colleges and Christian Universities, as well as those pursuing law enforcement technical certificates or degrees from accredited and committee-approved Colleges and Universities. By supporting students called to ministry, missions, Christian leadership, or public service through law enforcement, we invest in a generation committed to living out their faith and purpose boldly—just as Tobin did.

A Foundation of Faith

Guided by our Statement of Faith, we believe in the authority of God’s Word, the saving grace of Jesus Christ, and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. We affirm that every person is created in the image of God and called to serve others in love. Tobin’s foundation was deeply rooted in these truths. He lived without fear because he lived in the hope of the Gospel. His selfless care for others, joyful spirit, and bold witness continue to inspire all who follow in his footsteps.

Continuing the Legacy

The Tobin Bolter Memorial Project and Scholarship Program is more than a nonprofit—it is a ministry of remembrance, a mission of compassion, and a declaration of faith. Through every donation given, every scholarship awarded, and every act of support offered to law enforcement families, Tobin’s legacy lives on.

We are committed to glorifying God through lives changed, hope restored, and a nation reminded of the power of sacrificial love. As Tobin faithfully served without fear, so we now serve—empowered by the same Gospel that sustained him.

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13 ESV

This is our story. This is our purpose. This is our calling.

Our Story