By: Dar Dowling

When Steve Monier retired from a distinguished 38-year career in law enforcement — including serving as U.S. Marshal for the District of New Hampshire — he knew there was one story he felt needed to be shared: one that highlighted the power of patience, strategy, and human connection in the face of danger. That story became No One Has to Die: Inside the Longest Armed Standoff in the History of the U.S. Marshals, an inside look at the 266-day armed confrontation with tax protesters Ed and Elaine Brown in Plainfield, New Hampshire. It was one of the longest and complex standoffs in the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) history — and it ended without a single shot being fired. Monier says the book’s title emerged naturally, reflecting both the mission and the achievement. “I was inspired by the great team we put together to end this 266-day armed standoff in a way that ensured no one was harmed and no shots were fired,” he explains. “When I finally retired from government service in 2017, I felt that this story should be shared — as it’s considered one of the more remarkable cases in the history of the U.S. Marshals Service.”

A Marshal’s Perspective

Monier’s law enforcement experience deeply influenced the way he approached the narrative. “My writing style is direct in telling the story as it unfolded,” he says. Drawing from his background not only as a U.S. Marshal but also as a former police chief and co-author of a book on the Lindbergh kidnapping, he wrote No One Has to Die in the third person. This allowed him to emphasize the collaborative nature of the operation. The book also offers context, helping readers understand the militia and tax-denier movements that shaped the Browns’ actions. This historical perspective, combined with firsthand accounts from the field, keeps the story grounded while also revealing the personalities and challenges behind the scenes.

Balancing Facts with Storytelling

In telling this true story, Monier was committed to accuracy. However, he knew that connecting with readers required more than dry facts. “I try to highlight the inside stories, the struggles, the planning, and the everyday occurrences our team members faced,” he says. This human touch extends to moments of levity amidst the tension. By sharing not only the danger but also the humor that surfaced during long months of surveillance and negotiation, Monier provides readers with a rare, multidimensional view of law enforcement work.

Collaboration and Research

Though Monier is the author, he is quick to acknowledge the contributions of others. Retired Chief Deputies Gary DiMartino and David Dimmitt, who were part of the original leadership team, played crucial roles. They helped locate former colleagues, reviewed outlines and chapters, and participated in Zoom interviews with key figures from the standoff. Their insights ensured that the book reflects the perspectives of those who were directly involved in the operation, both on the ground and at headquarters — making No One Has to Die as much a collective memoir as it is a personal account.

Memorable Moments

One scene that Monier believes captures the essence of the operation is the final takedown. On October 4, 2007, undercover deputies sat on the Browns’ porch, casually sharing pizza and beer. At 7:45 p.m., they made their move, bringing the months-long standoff to a close in a way that continues to impress those who study such cases — without violence, without tragedy. It’s a moment that reinforces Monier’s message: even in situations where armed conflict seems imminent, there are alternatives.

Reception and Reflection

Among the many interviews Monier gave about the book, one stands out: a day-long visit from veteran journalist Shawne K. Wickham of the New Hampshire Sunday News. She came prepared, having read the manuscript in advance, and her story became a front-page feature — a sign of the book’s resonance with readers. Monier hopes that people take away a simple but powerful lesson: “That such dangerous and potentially explosive confrontations with law enforcement do not necessarily have to end in tragedy, where strategic communication and patience can create a different outcome.”

Looking Ahead

While Monier’s first two books are nonfiction, he is now exploring fiction, drawing inspiration from historical cases in U.S. Marshals Service files. It’s clear that storytelling remains a passion — as does his commitment to sharing lessons from his years of service.

 In No One Has to Die, Monier does more than recount events; he preserves a model of law enforcement that prioritizes life over force, planning over impulse, and teamwork over ego. It’s a compelling read for true crime enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who believes in the power of patience to change outcomes.

For readers interested in a gripping, inside look at one of the most remarkable operations in U.S. Marshals history, No One Has to Die is available now on Amazon.

Disclaimer: The views and experiences presented in this article are based on Steve Monier’s personal account and his book No One Has to Die. The article discusses a historical law enforcement event and does not promote or endorse any political ideologies or stances. The content is intended for informational purposes only and aims to provide insight into Monier’s career and his approach to law enforcement.