CCA FLORIDA PRESENTS 2008 FWC OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD

In 2007, CCA Florida began a program, in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), to recognize individual FWC Officers who have provided outstanding law enforcement work. Officers are selected on a regional basis and recognized at CCA Florida’s local chapter banquets throughout the year. Annually, one of those officers is selected to be the CCA Florida - Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission - officer of the year. Thus far CCA Florida has recognized 25 outstanding FWC Officers and this year alone CCA Florida has presented awards to 18 officers.

“Law enforcement is an essential part of the preservation of our marine fisheries,” said Mark Carter, CCA Florida Chairman. “We appreciate the opportunity to work with the Commission to recognize the extraordinary work of their dedicated officers.” CCA Florida Executive Director Ted Forsgren formally presented the 2008 award to Officer Robert Johnston at the December FWC Commission meeting.

“In Recognition of Outstanding Work In Conservation Law Enforcement.” Officer Johnston is being recognized for his tireless efforts in protecting the State’s marine resources. Officer Johnston’s patrols in Levy County have resulted in many citations and warnings for the illegal taking of seatrout, black drum and redfish. Officer Johnston has made a number of cases against commercial fisherman for violations of our state’s laws and regulations, in cases ranging from harvesting without a saltwater products license to the illegal taking and selling of saltwater fishes.

“Officer Johnston has a history of excellent law enforcement work,” said Forsgren, and “CCA Florida is pleased and proud to recognize him and all of these dedicated officers.”