But the moment we pointed out a discreet government sticker on the windshields of both vehicles, her confidence wavered, and the smirk quickly faded. The following morning, a federal agent knocked on Lindsey’s door. He calmly explained that by having the marked government vehicles towed, she had unknowingly disrupted an active undercover operation resulting in damages estimated at $25,000. Lindsey stood frozen, visibly shaken as the consequences of her interference began to register.

Jack and I stood on our porch, quietly observing as the self-proclaimed neighborhood enforcer realized the seriousness of what she had done. After the agent left, I glanced at Lindsey and said, “Next time, just stick to the cookies.” Her carefully crafted image as the neighborhood’s rule enforcer collapsed in an instant. From that point on, our driveway and our peace remained untouched.