COUNTY LIFE
Howard case investigators given Award of Excellence from U.S. Attorney
Two veteran law enforcement investigators from Montague County were honored along with two FBI agents with the U.S. Attorney’s Award of Excellence presented in an Oct. 7 ceremony.
Kevin Benton and Chris Hamilton were recognized for their investigative efforts that led to the Ricky Howard sexual exploitation trial last July. Despite the court declaring a mistrial due to juror injury, the 60-year-old Nocona man pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to the maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Chad Meacham hosted the award of excellence which recognizes federal, state and local law enforcement and agency partners for their distinguished service. Each recipient is nominated by someone in the U.S. Attorney’s office, then rigorously vetted by a committee of district senior leaders. Meacham stated it is very competitive and meant to recognize the extraordinary accomplishments of their partners.
Benton, who now serves as Montague County judge and is a former DA investigator, had worked closely with 97th District Attorney Investigator Chris Hamilton on the Howard case. FBI Special Agent David Burns and FBI TFO/Grand Prairie Police Detective Brandon Poor also were recognized.
Read the full story in the mid-week Bowie News.
Montague County Commissioner’s Court will meet at 9 a.m. on Nov. 25.
Members will consider an anti-fraud policy and adding it to the personnel policy. The annual liability renewal with the Texas Association of Counties Risk Pool will be reviewed.
Montague County officials will be enrolling in the TAC 2025 certified cybersecurity course required by the state for all employees who use county computers.
Other topics for Monday will include the bond for the county treasurer, review an account application with Schad & Pulte Welding Supply, Inc and consider raising the road hand clothing allowance from $500 to $1,000.
By BARBARA GREEN
[email protected]
It was family night for the City of Bowie Fire Department as members gathered for the annual pre-Thanksgiving awards dinner this week.
Firefighter of the Year awards, service awards and officers and firefighters were pinned with their new badges.
Fire Chief Doug Page opened the evening with a remembrance of a fallen firefighter, James Dunham who died 25 years ago on Nov. 18. This Saint Jo firefighter was responding to a car accident at Forestburg and after he arrived suffered a heart attack. Page noted his daughter is auxiliary member Renee Hart.
Chad Long, member of the department for one year and one month received the Firefighter of the Year Award. Kelly Tomlin, nine-year member, was selected by the volunteers to receive the Roy Gene Williams Award.
Read the full story in the weekend Bowie News.
Top photo- New lieutenants Michael Burrows and Chad Gerlach received the oath from Mayor Gaylynn Burris. (Photo by Barbara Green)
The new Montague County Animal Rescue, which will be helping with operation of the new county animal shelter, invite you to “Wine Like A Dog” on Dec. 3 at Kimber Creek Wine Bar and Gift Shop in downtown Bowie.
The evening will include wine and charcuterie from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., while raising funds for the rescue organization. Tickets are $50.
Melanie Gillespie of Montague County Animal Rescue said the new 501c3 has completed its agreement to work with Montague County operating the animal shelter.
“Your support enables us to launch the opening of the first county-run animal shelter. We invite you to join our mission of rescuing, rehabilitating and finding loving homes for animals in need,” said Gillespie.
Limited tickets will be offered at the door based on availability. Those with questions may call Gillespie at 469-951-0215 or email [email protected].
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