Michael Robinson, 65, was booked after Rockland police say he drove a plow truck toward a group gathered in public assembly at a park in Rockland on Feb. 21, 2026. Courtesy: Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | February 2026
ROCKLAND, Maine – A potentially deadly confrontation at Chapman Park has ended with a 65-year-old man behind bars after police say he drove a snowplow truck directly toward a crowd of protesters, knocking some to the ground with snow and ice.
According to the Rockland Police Department, approximately 75 people were gathered at the park when Michael Robinson allegedly drove his truck toward them with the plow blade down. Officers say snow and ice were propelled into the crowd with enough force to strike multiple people and cause some to fall.
Police arrested Robinson at the scene. He is charged with felony reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon and driving to endanger. Additional assault charges are expected. He was transported to Knox County Jail.
Authorities emphasized that they are committed to protecting the First Amendment rights of those gathered lawfully in the park and indicated there will be increased police presence at future events following what they described as escalating incidents targeting free speech at the same location in recent weeks.
This incident had the potential for serious injury. Authorities say a full-sized truck with a lowered plow blade moving toward a crowded public gathering represents a significant safety risk, not a simple misunderstanding. Fortunately, no one was reported to have suffered serious injuries. The investigation by the Rockland Police Department is ongoing, and anyone with video or information related to the incident is urged to contact investigators.
