This resolution congratulates Game Warden Austin Powell for receiving two prestigious awards: the Monty Carmikle Officer of the Year Award and the 2024 Robert M. Brantly Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award. At just 26 years old, Powell has made significant contributions to wildlife enforcement in Arkansas, having worked for only four years. His dedication to the community is evident through his involvement in various outreach events and his successful enforcement actions against wildlife violations, which include multiple charges for illegal hunting practices.
In addition to his awards, Powell has demonstrated exceptional bravery, earning a Lifesaving Award for rescuing a girl from a dangerous situation in the Mississippi River. His innovative work in using forensics to address illegal hunting has also garnered recognition, and he is only the fourth game warden from Arkansas to receive the Robert M. Brantly award, which honors excellence in law enforcement across fifteen states. The resolution expresses the House of Representatives and Senate's recognition of Powell's outstanding achievements and contributions to wildlife conservation and law enforcement.