ALBERTA - Jessica Mrazek
Alberta Fish and Wildlife Officer Jessica Mrazek demonstrates all the necessary attributes to be considered as the Officer of the Year. Her determination and unwavering dedication to every aspect of her
chosen career directly benefit the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Service, the public, and most importantly, our province's fish and wildlife resources.
Officer Mrazek has demonstrated a strong understanding and importance between our enforcement objectives and the overall management of the resource. Applying these principles, she has used considerable
discretion when warranted and, conversely, taken decisive action when faced with serious resource violators. This past fall, Officer Mrazek led a very complex wildlife investigation related to the illegal
harvest of multiple moose and two mule deer. Offenses included, but were not limited to, hunting without a license, hunting on land without permission, hunting during a closed season (cow moose), and
wastage of edible flesh (shot and left moose). Her dedication, commitment, and overall persistence were paramount for its successful outcome. She employed numerous investigative techniques (forensic
analysis of firearms and projectiles, DNA analysis of wildlife involved, static surveillance, and multiple suspect interviews), which resulted in all accused being convicted and sentenced to a combined
total of nearly $14,000 in fines, 11 years of recreational hunting license suspensions, and seven years of Judicial Orders (probation orders).
If not for Officer Mrazek's ability to cultivate informants and develop contacts throughout her District, files such as this would likely not be detected. Her continued dedication and commitment to the
area truly make her a community-based Game Warden. Whether it is one of several school presentations, Rural Crime Watch meetings, being a professional fitness trainer, a yoga instructor, her engagement with
the local Junior Forest Ranger Program, as well as her assistance with the Canadian Outdoor Women's Group, or all the volunteer work she participates in as a high school rugby coach, a volunteer member with
Victim Services and a board member with the SPCA to name a few. Additionally, Officer Mrazek has played a vital role in fostering and continued relationship building with several Indigenous communities
throughout Northwestern Alberta, which has received much gratitude and appreciation.
In addition to her primary roles and responsibilities as a Fish and Wildlife Officer here in Alberta, Officer Mrazek has contributed significant time in other facets, making her a valuable asset to our
service. As a Control Tactics Instructor, she is actively involved with our Provincial Training Program and plays a beneficial role at the Western Canadian Law Enforcement Academy (WCLEA). Additionally,
she has developed sound interagency relations with multiple ministries, assisting fisheries, wildlife, lands, and forestry staff on a variety of their projects, such as fishery test netting, caribou
surveys, radio collar recovery missions, wildlife surveys, fire patrols, and land use projects throughout the Peace Region.
Officer Mrazek continually exhibits all the great qualities expected from an Officer of the Year, whether related to enforcement, problem wildlife, or education. Her work ethic and overall
professionalism are infectious. "Jess" is a valuable asset to our team, and we are proud to call her one of our own.
ENVIRONMENT CANADA -
COLORADO - Dawson Swanson
Wildlife Officer Dawson Swanson has been a game warden with Colorado since 2002, first with the Colorado Division of Wildlife and later with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Dawson has been stationed in
Bailey, situated in the mountains southwest of Denver. He has served as a D.T. and ASP instructor, a Field Training Officer, an incredible mentor for younger officers, and a fixture in his community
for over twenty years. He serves as a shooting sports instructor for the youth in Bailey and has been instrumental in developing archery shooting ranges throughout his District. In 2023, Dawson was one
of Colorado's JD Hart Wildlife Officers of the Year for his efforts.
Most importantly, Dawson is an incredible family man, a devoted husband to his wife, Ashley, and three boys (who are all deadly with a bow).
ILLINOIS - Amanda McKune
CPO Amanda McKune has been an Illinois Conservation Police Officer for over three years, assigned to St. Clair County, which has diverse enforcement activities, from wildlife to the most challenging
criminal enforcement. CPO McKune never backs down, regardless of the challenge(s). She has earned a reputation for being one of the most driven, proactive, hard-charging CPOs to have worked in her District
of assignment.
CPO McKune is active within her community and exhibits excellence in public relations. She displays a very positive and competitive attitude, consistently encouraging veteran officers in a positive way
that has increased productivity and teamwork across the board. She is a great listener and a quick learner, and she has collected experience equal to or greater than most of our veteran officers. She has
developed new techniques utilizing our permit and licensing system that have resulted in the apprehension of the most egregious wildlife violators. Most importantly, CPO McKune is willing to share her
techniques with other officers statewide, showing her steadfast dedication to our team.
Her statistics include:
During her 2022-2023 evaluation period, she issued 184 citations 174 written warnings, and arrested three subjects for OUI and 1 for DUI. During this evaluation period, she completed 46 field reports,
94% related to enforcement. A brief highlight of her 2023 activity includes arresting two subjects for OUI at the same time without assistance; arresting an individual for offering to sell a venomous
reptile; arresting a subject for unlawfully taking seven turkeys; arresting multiple subjects for the unlawful use of another person's deer permits and fraudulent application for landowner permits.
INDIANA - Matt Tholen
Officer Matt Tholen is a 21-year veteran of our agency. His professional ethics and service are observed not only with fellow officers but also with the public he serves; when dealing with a person who
has committed a violation, a member of the public, or another law enforcement officer, he always displays a high level of professionalism. Officer Tholen is highly respected among local agencies,
sportspeople's organizations, and members of the public. One of the many examples of this occurred in 2023. Officer Tholen was called upon after a subject barricaded himself in a residence and refused
to comply with law enforcement. The only person the subject would converse with was Tholen. Even though he was off-duty, Tholen responded to the scene and contacted the subject, who ultimately surrendered
to law enforcement.
Tholen's dedication to our primary duties and the high standard of performance in his work are things that all officers should strive to achieve. He is always willing to respond to a call, even when
off-duty. As a K-9 officer, Tholen has made numerous cases not only when self-initiated but also for other officers and agencies in his area. In addition to his routine K-9 duties, Tholen accepted the role
as our agency's K-9 Program Coordinator for the entire state.
In addition to his duties in the field and K-9 Program, Officer Tholen also organizes and oversees the state's largest Indiana Conservation Officer youth camp. This week-long camp gives over a hundred
campers the opportunity to learn about the duties of an ICO, learn hunting and boater education, first aid, survival skills, and firearm safety. He also assists with local youth programs such as the
Wonders of the Wabash and Camp Wack. His hard work, dedication, professionalism, and leadership are all traits that we believe make Officer Matt Tholen the MAFWA Law Enforcement of the Year.
- Statewide K-9 Program Coordinator
- Coordinates annual K-9 Resource Protection School
- Coordinator of Karl Kelley Memorial Youth Camp
- District 3 Breath Test Operator
- District 3 Defensive Tactics/Use of Force Instructor
- District 3 Field Training Officer (FTO)
- Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST) Instructor
- 2023 District 3 Officer of the Year
- 2023 State Officer of the Year (Pitzer)
IOWA - Aaron Johnson
Conservation Officer Aaron Johnson has served Harrison and Shelby counties in western Iowa since 2018. This territory includes approximately 34 miles of Missouri River, a national wildlife refuge, and
nearly 17,000 acres of public lands. These public lands boast excellent hunting opportunities for waterfowl, upland birds, white-tailed deer, and pleasure boating on the Missouri River during the summer
and fall months.
CO Johnson spent many hours on navigation enforcement on the Missouri River, making 129 boating contacts, resulting in 20 citations and 22 warnings. He also arrested an impaired motorboat operator
for boating while intoxicated and investigated a boating incident on the Missouri River during the summer months.
Officer Johnson attended the 2023 NASBLA boat accident reconstruction course in Florida, where he gained valuable expertise in boating incidents.
Officer Johnson investigated several hunting incidents in his District during the past year. He has amassed an extensive network of informants that have helped bring numerous poachers to justice during
his tenure in his territory. One particularly lengthy case secured multiple search warrants and enlisted the help of 16 other Conservation Officers to serve warrants and conduct interviews. As a result,
66 charges were filed, and seven defendants took plea agreements with defendants paying several thousand dollars in fines, $40,250 in liquidated damages, condemnation of approximately $10,000 in hunting
equipment, and a combined 13 years of suspension of hunting privileges. Officer Johnson and several other officers used a Doppler radio direction finder to record and locate a party of hunters illegally
using mobile radios to hunt deer during Iowa's firearm deer seasons. An individual in one case was observed by officers chasing and subsequently killing a large buck from his vehicle while using a mobile
radio. This individual paid $4,000 in liquidated damages and was cited for using a mobile transmitter and a motor vehicle. A mobile radio and firearm were also seized. A large hunting party in another case
was apprehended when Officer Johnson and several other officers located their hunting group with the Doppler radio system. As a result, 16 individuals were charged with the use of mobile radios to attempt
to take deer. Six (6) mobile radios were seized, and more than 16 years of hunting privilege suspensions were ordered after hours of radio traffic were recorded.
Waterfowl enforcement is also one of his specialties, with violations of protected nongame, no HIP registration, and no federal migratory stamp citations being issued.
CO Johnson has also taken a keen interest in timber theft enforcement in his territory, which has thousands of acres of forested public lands. As a well-rounded law enforcement officer, he made
numerous arrests for narcotics and arrested an impaired motor vehicle operator for Operating While Intoxicated.
KANSAS -
KENTUCKY -
MANITOBA -
MICHIGAN - Michael Haas
Conservation Officer Michael Haas was hired by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division in January 2015. His initial assignment after completing his probationary training
period was Isabella County, where he spent his entire career representing the Department well while serving our mission.
Before starting his career with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, CO Haas spent six years serving our nation as a combat videographer in the United States Marine Corps.
He enrolled at Central Michigan University, where he studied Outdoor Environmental Recreation after he served our country. He is an active community member, always cheerful and willing to organize and
attend public relations events to promote the DNR, the LED, and our outdoor heritage. He is married to his wife, Kristen, and they have three beautiful young daughters (Alex, Emily, and Charleigh).
CO Haas' impact extends beyond our agency as he cultivates strong relationships with law enforcement partners, prosecutors' offices, constituent groups, and the public. His strong work ethic and
connections to those around him enhance our ability to safeguard natural resources, the environment, and public safety while fulfilling leadership roles in many capacities.
CO Haas has assumed numerous responsibilities within LED as he consistently demonstrates being a trusted and relied-upon resource for training and leadership responsibilities. As a Field Training
Officer (FTO), CO Haas helps shape new officers' futures through dedication to success and motivation. His guidance during their initial field experiences ensures they enter their careers on the right
path to success. District leadership has identified CO Haas as a leader in the field training process and requested all future District 6 officers to train under his mentorship. CO Haas is always looking
for opportunities to volunteer, lend a helping hand, and contribute to the success of the Law Enforcement Division, as demonstrated by his recent application as an ORV instructor. In an era of rapid
technological advancements, CO Haas helps to bridge the gap between law enforcement and cutting-edge tools for field staff. His role as a technological liaison officer and his previous military experience
ensures seamless integration of technology in our operations.
In addition to his undeniable leadership qualities, CO Haas possesses excellent investigative skills. His intuition during investigations has led to circumstances that less experienced officers would not
have uncovered. CO Haas is thorough, tenacious, and loyal to the mission of a Michigan Conservation Officer, which is to protect the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations.
His recent success in an intricate illegal bobcat case where he collaborated with Texas Game Wardens underscores his position as one of the state's top investigators.
CO Haas was nominated in 2022 and selected as the National Wild Turkey Federation Wildlife Officer of the Year for the State of Michigan. He has also been elected District Officer of the Year award
several times. He has been nominated for the Shikar-Safari Wildlife Officer of the Year for his relentless pursuit of excellence as a Michigan Conservation Officer.
CO Haas is an avid outdoorsman and dedicates time to the outdoors with his family and young children in his personal time. His passions include spending time with his family at their family cabin and
recreating with them in the outdoors. They enjoy hunting deer and turkey; he travels out of state with other C.O.s to pursue whitetail. He is an avid trout angler, introducing many to this sport for the
enjoyment of fishing and to provide another perspective on field investigations. He is an excellent example of what a Conservation Officer should be, and the DNR LED is better because of him.
MINNESOTA - Mitch Lawler
Mitch Lawler has been a conservation officer since 2012, establishing himself as a premier officer. He works the busy Alexandria station in west-central Minnesota, which includes hundreds of lakes that
draw recreational users throughout the year, and devotes time to special statewide projects that help the DNR Enforcement Division achieve its vision of being "the nation's premier conservation law
enforcement agency by providing outstanding service to citizens, high-quality outdoor safety and ethics training, and dedicated protection of Minnesota's natural resources."
Mitch is well-known in Alexandria and Douglas counties, working when people use the resources, evenings, nights, and weekends. People expect to see him while fishing one of the hundreds of lakes in his
station, hunting one of the wildlife management areas or waterfowl production areas, or riding ATVs or snowmobiles. He is a leader regarding the number of enforcement contacts he makes, but his supervisor
rarely receives a complaint about him. He treats people well and understands the fine line between taking enforcement action and using contacts with outdoors people as an educational opportunity.
Mitch is also instrumental in teaching his colleagues and instructing at the Conservation Officer Academy, where prospective C.O.s spend nearly four months learning about all aspects of being a
conservation officer. He also serves as a Field Training Officer and works hard to prepare new officers for their jobs. He has high expectations of them, but their performance after working with him shows
how much effort he puts into making all his colleagues successful.
Mitch is devoted to ensuring the DNR Enforcement Division is positioned to provide high-quality service and protection to Minnesota's people and natural resources into the future. He also serves on the
Enforcement Division's recruiting team and actively searches for ways to reach people who might make good conservation officers.
Mitch maintains a high profile at events in his community in addition to his work in the field. He routinely attends ATV, firearms, and snowmobile safety education classes and field days; speaks to
school-aged kids about natural resources and the job of a conservation officer; works with local media; and speaks to employees at local businesses on safety and natural resources laws and regulations. He
also attends a youth activity day in Alexandria that draws more than 2,000 people yearly.
Mitch serves his Alexandria station well and always steps up to serve the broader Enforcement Division. He sets the standard for professionalism, and Minnesota's people and natural resources are lucky
to have someone of Mitch's caliber working for them.
MISSOURI - Tyler Brown
Cpl. Tyler Brown is an impactful conservation agent for the Missouri Department of Conservation. Cpl. Brown has served for 12 years, continually developing his skills in natural resource law enforcement,
public outreach, community service, and technical skills. His well-balanced program focuses on teamwork, dedication, education, and customer service. Cpl. Brown is recognized for volunteering for extra
duties last year, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol POST Instructor School, Firearms Instructor School, taught in-service training for firearms, simunitions, and intermediate weapon/pepper spray,
taught at the Agent Training Academy for radio operations, shotgun training, low-light firearms training, building searches, and active shooter training, served as Regional Firearms Armorer for AR-15
patrol rifle, 12 ga. shotgun, and Glock pistol, served on the test group for the new body-worn cameras and provided critical feedback related to its use and policy; and served as a Field Training Agent.
Tyler assisted with MDC priority work for CWD transport duties and private landowner communication. Cpl. Brown embraces community engagement in programs such as the Parent/Teen Expo at the Camdenton
Homecoming football game, an Operation Game Thief exhibit at the Osage Beach Fall Festival, Camden County Sheriff's Office Jr. Police Academy, and delivering Share the Harvest meat to food pantries.
Cpl. Brown's resource law enforcement is second to none. He logged 214 incidents, 1,201 law enforcement contacts, 75 tickets/arrests, 49 assisted tickets/arrests, 38 documented warnings, and 147 boat patrol
hours. Cpl. Brown was also recognized for his heroic actions during a medical emergency incident. Cpl. Brown was first on scene and found an individual not breathing and with no pulse. He began CPR and
delivered two doses of Nar-Can. The victim was eventually revived. Camden County Sheriff Deputy Zach Morehead stated, "Thanks to Corporal Brown's quick response and medical training, he saved the life of
an overdose victim. Without Tyler, the subject would have died."
Teamwork and Public Outreach:
Cpl. Tyler Brown is a team player who regularly volunteers and is involved with MDC projects, group patrols, special investigations, MDC priorities, and community engagement and outreach efforts. Tyler
has shown his willingness to work with all MDC Branches and other groups and organizations to achieve the Department's mission.
Work teams: Tyler routinely communicates with other MDC branches regarding conservation issues within his county and District. One project is the Lake Ozark shoreline cleanup, where their DCT
work team helped clean up a portion of the shoreline at Lake of the Ozarks. He also worked with Forestry personnel related to illegal camping in MDC areas, assisted Fisheries with fish kill investigations,
and assisted USDA APHIS with Camden County deer culling effort to reduce deer populations around the Lake of the Ozarks. All deer harvested were also tested for CWD, and the meat was donated to local
food pantries.
Group Patrols: Tyler is a leader and is quick to volunteer to assist with group patrols throughout the state, which include MDC area 10-4 closure patrol, Camden/Miller/Morgan/Maries counties
spotlight patrols, Camden County Telecheck patrol, gigging patrol, Bennett Springs patrol, Osage River patrol, S.W. Region Niangua River patrols, and LOZ crappie patrol.
Special Investigations: Tyler assisted with an illegal bear investigation, during which he interviewed a Camden County resident regarding his involvement in a bear hunt that occurred in Canada
during the fall of 2022. He coordinated with officers from Canada, Minnesota, and the U.S. Border Patrol. Tyler's interview and questioning greatly assisted the investigation, which is still pending.
He also used MDC's new K9 unit on a deer investigation about taking deer from public roadways.
MDC Priorities: Tyler focuses his work on MDC priorities, which include spending 349 hours on priorities related to priority geography and CWD management efforts. In the priority geographic area,
he focused on enforcement patrols and, as a result, made a spotlighting case and cases for fishing in a restricted zone on the Osage River. For CWD winter culling operations, he assisted with landowner
contacts in the Central and Ozark Regions and served on a transportation team in the Ozark Region. The Camdenton MDC office was a voluntary sampling location, where Tyler assisted with managing the CWD
Dropoff Freezer. He also assisted with wildlife disease testing by transporting animals to the Green Area for additional testing. Tyler worked in urban areas to promote relevancy for MDC and connect people
to nature. He made 395 contacts in the sixteen most populous counties.
Community Engagement accomplishments: Tyler participated in the Parent/Teen Expo at the Camdenton Homecoming football game, where he connected with the community and answered conservation-related
questions. Camden County Sheriff's Office offers a Jr. Police Academy, and for the first time in the program's history, they asked a conservation agent to instruct them. Tyler taught about firearm safety,
the job duties of an agent, and the Wildlife Code. To inform and educate the public on various conservation topics, he writes newspaper articles, conducts live radio shows, and even appears on Facebook.
He hosted an OGT exhibit at the Osage Beach Fall Festival that worked with area schools to provide hunter education and an annual trap shooting event. He participated in the Shop-With-A-Cop program before
Christmas and is always available to aid and/or guide nuisance wildlife.
Excellence and Innovation: Tyler volunteered to be among the first to receive our new Body Worn Cameras (BWC) and become a regional expert to help other agents learn to use them. He tested it and
provided beneficial feedback on the new policy. He has quickly learned of and used our new electronic evidence management system, FileOnQ; he always goes above and beyond when needed and constantly
volunteers for extra duties and assignments.
Attitude and Leadership: Cpl. Tyler Brown has been a Conservation Agent for 12 years and takes great pride in his work, his knowledge of the job, serving the people of Missouri, and assisting
other agents. Tyler can always be trusted to provide sound insight related to policy, state law, and public perception, and he uses good judgment and common sense for each situation. He is well respected
amongst his peers and maintains a positive community policing program by responding to and assisting citizens promptly. He has an outstanding relationship with Camden County Dispatch/Sheriff's Office,
MSHP Dispatch/Troopers, and members of law enforcement throughout the county.
Tyler is a highly respected FTA. Last fall, during his FTA duties with Agent Katie Stoner, Tyler helped initiate an investigation that continued for the next nine months. Tyler and Katie responded to
a report of six (6) dumped whole deer carcasses. As they investigated, they took pictures, recovered bullet fragments, and talked about how to continue the investigation, which included requesting a
geofence warrant, which was eventually used. Tyler's leadership helped encourage a new agent to explore all options related to the investigation, which resulted in the people being held accountable for
their actions. Tyler also took advantage of the opportunities to attend POST Instructor School, Firearms Instructor School, and recertified as an O.C. Instructor.
NEBRASKA - John Lee
Significant contributions and achievements in conservation and wildlife enforcement have marked John Lee's tenure with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Starting in October 2015, his journey within
the Commission has been characterized by dedication, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.
One of John's notable accomplishments early in his career was his involvement in utilizing cell phone mapping techniques during fieldwork, which resulted in convictions related to non-residents
obtaining resident permits for hunting in Nebraska. This initiative demonstrated his adaptability to new technologies and commitment to upholding regulations and protecting wildlife resources.
Transitioning to the Investigation Unit three years into his tenure, John quickly distinguished himself through his involvement in Operation Yellow Cab, assisting in the Hidden Hills Outfitting case.
His subsequent lateral transfer to Lincoln, Nebraska, expanded his responsibilities to statewide investigations, where he played a pivotal role in Operation No Trace. As the primary case officer, he
demonstrated strong leadership and organizational skills, coordinating efforts across multiple jurisdictions to achieve successful outcomes.
John's contributions extend beyond individual cases, as he regularly provides support and guidance to fellow officers statewide. Whether it's assisting in prioritizing investigations, drafting warrants,
or providing technical expertise in areas such as geo-fencing and call records analysis, he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the success of each endeavor.
His proactive approach to collaboration is evident in his efforts to maintain strong relationships with external agencies, such as the Nebraska State Patrol and local sheriff's offices. By fostering
these connections, he enhances the Commission's investigative capabilities and facilitates knowledge exchange and best practices sharing among law enforcement entities.
John's dedication to his role and colleagues has earned him widespread respect within the Commission and among his peers. His reputation for sound judgment, expertise, and willingness to assist others
has positioned Nebraska as a leader in long-term investigations and combating wildlife commercialization in the region.
In summary, Conservation Officer John Lee's exemplary performance and commitment to excellence have significantly and positively impacted the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. His leadership,
expertise, and collaborative spirit serve as a model for conservation officers statewide, furthering the mission of protecting and preserving Nebraska's natural resources for future generations.
NORTH DAKOTA - Jonathon Tofteland
Jonathan Tofteland was initially hired by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department as a Game Warden in 2011. He has spent his entire career as a Game Warden in the Bottineau District.
This District includes the Lake Metogoshe area, the Turtle Mountains, and the remainder of Bottineau County. He patrols by vehicle, boat, ATV, and snowmobile to accomplish his enforcement goals in all
four seasons. He has a tremendous grasp of the area within his District: the landowners and the natural resources he is sworn to protect.
Officer Tofteland is always willing to assist neighboring officers with any investigations. He was instrumental in solving a couple of high-profile moose poaching cases. Five (5) moose were illegally
shot and left to rot in one case. Another case involved a group of people who chased and gunned down a moose, which was also left to rot.
Jon has assumed extra duties, such as a Taser Instructor, Field Training Instructor, and Weapons Instructor. He has proven his dedication to his chosen profession by serving as Treasurer on the North
American Wildlife Enforcement Officers Association Museum board.
NORTHWEST TERRITORIES -
OHIO - Joshua Shields
The ODNR Division of Wildlife wants to nominate Josh Shields, District One Law Operations Manager, for the AMFGLEO Officer of the Year Nomination.
Before becoming a Law Operations Manager, Josh retired from the Ohio Army National Guard and served as a Wildlife Area Technician, Wildlife Officer, and Field Supervisor. Josh's strong organizational
skills, knowledge, and experience in the field are an asset to our agency, especially this past year. Josh took on a big undertaking as the Division's point of contact for the Solar Eclipse Committee. He
went above and beyond, spending countless hours planning for the upcoming solar eclipse in April 2024 to ensure we were prepared as an agency. He attended meetings with other law enforcement agencies and
drafted a detailed operations plan for the Division that involved all sections, including law enforcement. Josh also took the lead and planned two days of cadet scenario training for each cadet class to
prepare new officers for real-life situations in the field.
In March of 2024, Indian Lake in Logan County, Ohio, was damaged by tornadoes. Josh quickly gathered a law enforcement team and was among the first to respond and lend a hand. He has taken the lead on
all these projects, in addition to his managerial duties and support for his team of field supervisors and officers. In addition, he also leads the Wildlife Officer Honor Guard team, is a member of the
Officer Support Team, and is a Fitness Specialist. Josh Shields' attention to detail, dedication, persistence, and passion for the Division of Wildlife mission does not go unnoticed. We value his service
to the agency, his fellow officers, and the community he serves.
He resides in Union County, Ohio, with his wife and two daughters. Outside of work, he is an avid hunter dedicated to mentoring others.
OKLAHOMA - Riley Wilman
Oklahoma Game Warden Riley Willman's ambition, intelligence, and accomplishments precisely complement the distinguished community of past recipients and make him highly deserving of the honor and
opportunity bestowed by AMFGLEO.
Warden Willman continually exemplifies teamwork, public outreach, and excellence. His charisma inspires the devotion of others to the task at hand, making him a pleasure to be around and to work with,
no matter the task. He naturally magnifies the enthusiasm of all those with whom he works.
Warden Willman presented many programs ranging from fishing field days for local youth to assisting with special youth hunts. A prime example of these programs is the organization of the most extensive
Hunter Education Course in his District. He engaged community support through prize donations and went above and beyond by hosting a cookout and a shotgun sporting clay shoot for the students and
volunteers.
Warden Willman continually prioritizes service to the Department before himself and his family to ensure that Oklahoma's sportsmen and women receive justice for wildlife crimes committed in his assigned
area. He has always held himself to the highest standard of performance and professionalism, shown best through his annual 1,148 public assists and 3,244 law enforcement contacts.
Warden Willman's preparedness, quick actions, and selflessness have saved the lives of several who need rescue. From assisting a citizen with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, using tourniquets to stop
bleeding on a man who had slit his wrists, risking his own life by jumping into turbulent water to pull a drowning victim from those waters, and performing CPR on the drowning victim bringing him back to
life…twice, Warden Willman's extreme altruism demonstrates his steadfast dedication to the field of law enforcement. There is no greater love than the willingness to sacrifice yourself so that others may
live. Warden Willman is exceptional in every way. His heart, spirit, mindset, courage, work ethic, and respectfulness make him an extraordinary Game Warden.
ONTARIO - Michael Evers
Officer Michael Evers C702 has been a full-time conservation officer at Red Lake since 2016. He is a dedicated and loyal Ontario Conservation Officer's Association member. He has spent his entire
career working out of the Red Lake office.
Mike doesn't do the job for personal recognition. He does the job because he genuinely believes in Ontario Conservation Officers' work and wants to see ALL Conservation Officers succeed. With this
mindset, Mike has elevated his whole team through his contributions to their files and acting as a stalwart example of how to conduct oneself as a C.O.
Mike's reputation and respect from fellow officers have often been made clear in their attempts to recruit him to their teams. This is one of the highest compliments that an officer can receive from
their peers, "I know over the years the rumors of him leaving Red Lake for other areas of the province have put disappointment in his home unit and hope in other units as field C.O.'s attempt to recruit
him for their team. This is for good reason." Colin Langford (C624), Enforcement Operations Specialist, Dryden, Ignace, Sioux Lookout
Mike has never wavered in his approach to the job or his colleagues. Day in and day out, he maintains a professional and respectful relationship with his colleagues and is a thoughtful, kind, and funny
guy. With Red Lake acting as a starting location for many young Ontario COs, Mike has had the chance to set the example for many of the recruits coming into the job. Mike is such a willing and capable
mentor. As these officers transfer out of the region back to their preferred home locations, they are leaving after acquiring a rock-solid foundation of how an Ontario Conservation Officer performs their
duties, in no small part due to Mike. Therefore, his effect on natural resource law enforcement is being spread across the entire province, not just the northwest region.
Mike has the natural ability to put resource users at ease. This is because he is, ultimately, a people person. He is a natural at cultivating relationships and bonding with people over his love of the
outdoors. As a result, Michael has built a phenomenal information network within the community because of people's trust and respect when communicating with him. Outfitters, tourists, and local resource
users regularly contact Michael with confidential information that has resulted in investigations into illegal hunting due to Michael's fantastic ability to build relationships.
Not many people were born knowing what they were meant to be when they grew up - but Mike is one of those lucky few people. From his first days on the job, it was apparent that Mike's career trajectory
would be unusual. Tim Neidenbach, Mike's first training officer and mentor, describes Mike's first few days on the job: "Immediately he was immersed into the early moose hunt. He was very knowledgeable of
the legislation, considering he had little exposure to moose hunting regulations in his past. His people skills and interviewing of hunters were excellent from the start; he needed next to no guidance." T.
Neidenbach, (C474, retired) Red Lake/Ear Falls
His influence has spread beyond Canadian borders. While working on multiple large-scale moose investigations, Michael has built strong relationships with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and
several state Department of Natural Resources agencies. This has resulted in multiple charges and convictions in Ontario, search warrants, and multiple violations being unearthed in the United States.
Michael's ability to clearly share information and provide detailed information to outside agencies encouraged them to tackle these significant issues for the province of Ontario and themselves.
"Thanks to Officer Evers' testimony, I was able to obtain local search warrants, which yielded evidence of even more wildlife crimes committed here in Indiana by the same group, resulting in additional
convictions and fines. I will always be grateful to Officer Evers, and I hold him and the MNRF in very high esteem. He is a credit to our profession of natural resources law enforcement and to your agency."
J. A. Arthur, Det Sgt, Indiana Department of Natural Resources
Mike can develop key working relationships with a variety of agencies and staff. He has formed close working relationships with several Ontario Provincial Police officers and routinely conducts joint
marine, snowmobile, and vehicle patrols.
Michael can look beyond what is being presented to him as the truth and discover other avenues of investigation that most people would never even think to look for during investigations. His ability to
sort large amounts of information, recall small details, and then incorporate all this information into a coherent account of what he believes occurred has led him to some impressive investigations.
One example: Fall 2021 through the present, Michael has conducted a moose investigation that has grown exponentially. 15 illegally taken moose, 17 individuals, and three businesses are involved in the
investigation. Two hundred fifty-nine charges are currently before the courts involving 15 sections of the FWCA and O/Reg 665/98. Numerous U.S. F&W agents have been engaged from multiple states. They have
conducted statements, search warrants, and seizures with Michael's evidence. Michael has prepared three search warrants in Ontario for this case. He has executed two, and the other was executed in southern
Ontario by conservation officers. He has displayed tremendous initiative and innovation throughout the investigation. A lot of information has been gained from forensic analysis of seized evidence. His
ability to think 'big picture' and 'outside the box' has been fully displayed through this investigation, along with his ability to network. While analyzing data from search warrants, Michael meticulously
looked at things such as the fitness app on an individual's cell phone to determine the number of steps he took during a time frame and related that as evidence to a party hunting violation. The potential
fines in the case will be more than $150,000, permanent forfeiture of moose shares, and several years in hunting suspensions.
Firstly, this case file marks a significant contribution to conserving Ontario's moose population, strictly in terms of the number of moose that will be saved as a direct result of stopping these people.
Secondly, it will serve as a strong deterrent against those thinking of carrying out similar poaching operations across the province and, quite likely, across North America as news of the outcomes of this
case becomes more widely available.
As just about any game wardens in small communities have experienced, you don't stop being a C.O. at the end of your shift. People are always watching and listening, and Mike sets a great example.
Whether it's attending the local Legion's meat draws, watching the Red Lake Walleye Tournament weigh-ins, or various other social events Mike is fond of, I can personally attest that he will always
conduct himself with the same attitude with which he approaches his job; if you have fun, be friendly and treat other people with respect then the rest will take care of itself.
SASKATCHEWAN -
SOUTH DAKOTA - Matt Talbert
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks nominates District Conservation Officer Supervisor (DCOS) Matt Talbert. DCOS Talbert has been an officer since 2008 and is a district supervisor. DCOS Talbert is
certified as a Wildlife Training Officer, a Boating Enforcement Instructor, and a Level 2 Boat Accident Investigator. He is being recognized for his efforts in investigating a tragic boat accident, his
dedication and commitment to training the new conservation officers, and his efforts to effectively patrol a severely short-staffed district. DCOS Talbert is a past recipient of South Dakota's Boating
Officer of the Year Award sponsored by NASBLA, the NWTF Officer of the Year, and the South Dakota Conservation Officer's Association Officer of the Year. DCOS Talbert is a dedicated officer and represents
the Department and the profession in a manner that makes us proud!
TEXAS - Allison Hatten
Allison Hatten, a 57th Game Warden cadet class graduate in 2012, boasts an illustrious 12-year tenure in Val Verde County. Armed with a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University and accredited as a
licensed Texas Master Peace Officer, she has exemplified exceptional dedication and expertise throughout her career.
Allison has significantly contributed to the law enforcement community, serving as a firearms instructor at the Texas Game Warden Academy and extending her tutelage to her colleagues statewide. Her
commitment to excellence is further demonstrated through her ALERRT and TCOLE instructor roles, where she imparts invaluable knowledge and skills to law enforcement professionals.
Notably, Allison also serves as a Field Training Officer, pivotal in shaping the next generation of game wardens.
In 2021, Allison was selected through a rigorous process to join the highly selective Texas Game Warden Rural Operations Group (ROG), a highly trained tactical response team.
This achievement underscores her unwavering dedication to protecting Texas's natural resources and ensuring public safety.
U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE -
WISCONSIN - Brandon Smith
Brandon has developed a well-balanced law enforcement program within his administrative area in Kenosha County, including a blend of direct enforcement activities and information and educational
programs designed to improve the public's understanding of the overall mission of the Department of Natural Resources. Brandon brings a strong sense of leadership, dedication, and knowledge into his work
as a conservation warden. Brandon has had a consistent pattern from the time of hire until today, performing at a very high level. He has outstanding leadership qualities and teaches them through being
an FTO and mentoring new officers beside him. He is a drone operator and SER computer investigator. Brandon's law enforcement knowledge, skills, and abilities that he brings to his work and his consistently
high level of performance continue to show through the citizen comments, other staff comments, and supervisors' recognition of his work.
Brandon is consistent in his investigative abilities, including various enforcement venues involving archery, trapping, fishing, hunting, waterfowl, boating, snowmobile, ATV, environmental
citations/investigations, recreational work, and park enforcement. Brandon uses search warrants, subpoenas for records, interviews, evidence collection, witness statements, DNR records, and new
technology to make his cases.
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