Georgia Wildlife Resources Division
2070 U.S. Hwy. 278, SE, Social Circle, GA 30025
Law enforcement rangers with the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division consistently face a wide variety of natural resource related criminal activity. Often times, lengthy criminal investigations ensue which require diligence and dedication on behalf of the officers. In recognition for that work, the Law Enforcement Section annually selects one ranger as the Investigative Ranger of the Year. The ranger for 2011 is RFC Ben Roberts of Dougherty County. Safari Club International, Georgia Chapter sponsors this award.
“I commend RFC Roberts for his drive and continued efforts to apprehend violators whom adversely affect our natural resources,” says WRD chief of law enforcement Col. Homer Bryson. “His commitment to the investigative work required for this case, as well as continuing to do all other required tasks, shows great multi-tasking skills and dedication.”
The investigation for which RFC Roberts is recognized involved night hunting activity occurring on a plantation in Dougherty County. In order to do surveillance on the area, Roberts had to do night foot patrols in an effort to gain evidence. Once the plantation owner was shown not to be involved, Roberts met with him to further the investigation and additionally conducted more than 15 interviews. In total, it took nearly three months to complete the investigation but it resulted in 28 warrants being taken on three individuals, including hunting without a license, hunting from a vehicle and hunting deer at night.
Additional WRD rangers were nominated for the award by their supervisors for their outstanding investigative work in 2010. They are as follows: Cpl. James Keener, Cpl. Craig Fulghum, RFC Chase Altman and Cpl. Cindy Miller.
For more information on the 2010 State Investigative Ranger of the Year Award, call the WRD law enforcement headquarters office at (770) 918-6408.
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