Two of Louisiana’s wildlife protectors have been recognized for their exceptional efforts in safeguarding creatures of the wild. According to a report by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), the Shikar-Safari Club International has honored Sgt. Cole Cupit and Agent Andrew Lemoine with the 2024 Conservation Officers of the Year award for Louisiana, bestowed upon them at the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission meeting in Baton Rouge.
The accomplishments of Sgt. Cupit and Agent Lemoine cannot be understated, having conducted a thorough investigation of an illegal black bear killing that resulted in an conviction and their efforts were highlighted by LDWF's Col. Stephen Clark, who expressed pride and commended them for their investigative efforts, stating "These two agents are very deserving of this prestigious honor and we are proud of the work they did to earn this award," as they unraveled a case that brought Christopher Buck before the bars of justice, as mentioned in the Louisiana Department of
Wildlife and Fisheries website.
Specifically, these agents’ tenacity led to the arrest of Christopher Buck of Lafayette, on charges of illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and hunting a bear during a closed season. Upon being confronted with the evidence collected by the agents, Buck confessed to killing the bear in question on November 29, 2024, using a shotgun loaded with buckshot at the Richard K. Yancey Wildlife Management Area.
As for the agents' backgrounds, Sgt. Cupit has been steadfast in his role for six years and has previously been recognized as his region's Agent of the Year for 2022 and Waterfowl Officer of the Year for 2023, while Agent Lemoine, patrolling central Louisiana for two years, was awarded the 2024 Statewide Waterfowl Officer of the Year.
