TPWD Names MCDAO Prosecutor of Year

**Montgomery County DA’s Office Named Texas’s “Prosecutor of the Year” for Wildlife Crimes**

**MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX** – The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office (MCDAO) has received a prestigious statewide honor, being named the “Prosecutor of the Year” for 2023 by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). This significant recognition was bestowed during a ceremony held on May 29, 2024, at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden’s Law Enforcement Academy in Austin, commending the MCDAO’s unwavering commitment to prosecuting game and fish law violations.

The annual award highlights district attorney offices across Texas that demonstrate exceptional dedication to protecting the state’s natural resources through rigorous legal pursuit. Colonel Chad Gruver, Head of Law Enforcement for TPWD, presented the award, acknowledging the MCDAO’s pivotal role in these vital enforcement efforts.

Assistant District Attorney (ADA) Lisa Stewart, with the full support of District Attorney Brett Ligon, has been particularly instrumental in earning this accolade. Stewart’s extensive caseload annually includes hundreds of complex prosecutions, ranging from intricate wildlife trafficking operations to egregious hunting violations. She is known for her meticulous approach to investigations, working seamlessly and tirelessly with Texas Game Wardens to ensure that those who exploit Texas’s valuable wildlife face justice.

“It’s an immense honor to receive this recognition, but it truly reflects the collaborative spirit between our office and the dedicated Texas Game Wardens,” said ADA Lisa Stewart. “Every case, no matter how small, represents a piece of our state’s natural heritage that we are sworn to protect. Seeing justice served in these cases is incredibly rewarding and motivates us to continue our steadfast efforts.”

District Attorney Brett Ligon has consistently emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding Texas’s natural resources. He stated that this award underscores his entire team’s deep commitment to that mission.

“Protecting our wildlife and natural habitats is not just about enforcing laws; it’s about preserving a legacy for future generations of Texans,” stated District Attorney Brett Ligon. “ADA Stewart’s exceptional dedication, coupled with the unwavering commitment of our entire office and our vital partnership with the Texas Game Wardens, ensures that Montgomery County remains a leader in prosecuting these crucial cases. This award is a testament to their hard work and tenacity in upholding the conservation laws that protect our state’s unique biodiversity.”

Colonel Chad Gruver highlighted the essential partnership between law enforcement and prosecutors. “The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, under the leadership of DA Ligon and the relentless efforts of ADA Stewart, exemplifies the kind of dedication we need statewide,” said Colonel Gruver. “Their commitment to prosecuting complex wildlife crimes sends a clear message that Texas will not tolerate those who threaten our precious game and fish populations. This strong partnership is absolutely essential for successful conservation efforts and for deterring future violations.”

Wildlife crimes, often mistakenly viewed as less serious than other offenses, can have devastating long-term impacts on ecosystems, public lands, and the sustainable use of natural resources. The MCDAO’s robust prosecution efforts serve as a significant deterrent and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and upholding vital conservation laws across the state.

The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office encourages anyone who witnesses or suspects a game and fish law violation to report it immediately to Texas Game Wardens by calling the Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-792-GAME (4263) or online at the TPWD website.

For more information, visit:
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: [https://tpwd.texas.gov/](https://tpwd.texas.gov/)
Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office: [https://mcdac.org/](https://mcdac.org/)