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Austin Priest named ‘Officer of the Year’ as Illinois DNR honors CPOs

CPO Austin Priest receives his “Officer of the Year” award from DNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. (Photos courtesy of DNR)

Illinois Conservation Police Officer Austin Priest has been named DNR’s “Officer of the Year” for his “relentless enforcement of conservation laws and impactful public outreach.”
The announcement of Priest’s honor came as DNR recognized several CPOs and civilians for service to the state. DNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie noted CPOs’ efforts to save lives, protect wildlife, and foster community connections.

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