Former APD Officer No Longer with Department After Serious DUI Incident

It's always tough to hear news like this, especially when it involves someone from our local law enforcement. The Anchorage Police Department recently confirmed that Charles Bowser, an officer with a dozen years of dedicated service under his belt, is no longer employed with the department. This significant change follows formal charges of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) stemming from an off-duty incident that occurred back in early March.

The whole unsettling situation unfolded on March 9, 2026, when Bowser, then an APD patrol officer, was reportedly found at his residence in an alarming state. Details emerging from the ongoing investigation suggest he was slumped over in a department-issued patrol car, noticeably smelling of alcohol. What's even more concerning, his blood alcohol level was allegedly around .293 — quite a significant figure, far exceeding the legal limit, if the reports hold true.

Adding another deeply troubling layer to this serious incident, an in-car video, according to allegations, captured Bowser driving at speeds exceeding 80 miles per hour just before he was found. It’s a stark reminder that the immense responsibilities of law enforcement, and the expectations that come with them, really do extend far beyond the uniform and official duty hours. That's a point often stressed within police forces, for very good reason.

Formal charges against Bowser weren't officially filed until April 24, 2026, giving the department time, one presumes, to conduct its internal processes and gather all the necessary information. By June 18, 2026, Bowser had separated from the department, a move the APD indicated was a resignation. It truly marks a significant and unfortunate shift for someone who had dedicated over a decade to serving the Anchorage community.

Now, as the legal proceedings continue to move forward, a pre-trial conference has been scheduled for August. This entire incident undoubtedly casts a shadow, not just for Bowser personally as he faces these charges, but also for the department and, crucially, for the public's trust in those sworn to protect and serve. It serves as a somber reminder of the constant vigilance required from everyone, especially those in positions of public trust, and the profound consequences when that trust is, regrettably, broken.