The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced that the West Virginia Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation has named Cody Smith its 2026 Natural Resources Police Officer of the Year, according to a press release from the WVDNR.
Smith, who has been a natural resources police officer for six years, currently serves in Wayne County. He was recognized for his dedication, professionalism and efforts to enforce wildlife laws and protect West Virginia’s wild turkey population.
“Officer Smith’s commitment to conservation law enforcement and his ability to build trust within the community make him an exceptional representative of the West Virginia Natural Resources Police,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “His work not only protects our wild turkey resources but also ensures future generations can enjoy West Virginia’s hunting traditions.”
During the 2025 spring turkey season, Smith investigated multiple illegal turkey hunting cases involving baiting. Many of these cases stemmed from complaints he began working on in 2023 and required repeated site checks and coordination with landowners.
Smith worked five bait sites, issued 15 citations to seven individuals and confiscated four illegal turkey harvests. Charges included hunting over bait, illegal possession of wildlife, hunting without a valid license and failure to check game. Smith also used his K-9 partner, Hutch, to locate evidence, including shotgun wads and kill sites that helped confirm violations.
In addition to his law enforcement work, Smith helps coordinate youth deer hunts, teaches hunter education classes and participates in community events, where he uses K-9 Hutch to connect with youth and promote safe and ethical hunting practices.
