Baton Rouge, La. — October 16, 2025
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) celebrated the graduation of its 37th Law Enforcement Academy class today, officially commissioning 13 new agents into the LDWF Enforcement Division during a ceremony held in Baton Rouge.
After months of intensive training, the graduates are now prepared to enforce Louisiana’s hunting, fishing, and boating laws — ensuring the protection of the state’s natural resources. This class marked a milestone for LDWF as the agency’s first-ever Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified hybrid academy.
The program began with LDWF-led conservation law training, followed by POST certification for cadets who were not previously certified. Two POST-certified cadets completed their conservation training in August and joined the rest of the class for graduation.
Keynote speakers included LDWF Secretary Tyler Bosworth, State Representative Neil Riser, St. Landry Parish District Attorney Chad Pitre, retired LDWF Lt. Col. Charlie Clark, and Col. Stephen Clark, head of the Enforcement Division.
“Few accept the calling to serve one’s state, and even fewer do so knowing it may mean risking their lives for others,” said Secretary Bosworth. “Your decision sets you apart. May your legacy be one of respect, service, and sacrifice — true hallmarks of a Louisiana Game Warden.”
Col. Clark presented certificates and administered the Oath of Office, officially welcoming the new agents to the LDWF Enforcement Division. “They have shown the dedication and integrity it takes to protect Louisiana’s resources,” said Clark. “We’re proud to have them join our family of game wardens.”
Graduating Agents:
Jonathan Braud – St. Charles Parish
Braden Carrier – Iberia Parish
Jackson Conner – Calcasieu Parish
Hayden Doyle – Jefferson Parish (Prior POST Certified)
Jerry Fleming – West Carroll Parish
Michael Gaspard – Evangeline Parish
Courtney Hart – Lafourche Parish
Chance Lombard – St. Bernard Parish
Chase Mack – East Feliciana Parish
Jason Martin – Concordia Parish
Brad McKee – St. John Parish
Joycelyn Miller – Cameron Parish
Michael Rick – Beauregard Parish (Prior POST Certified)
Awards and Honors:
Physical Fitness Award: Brad McKee
Firearms Award: Jonathan Braud
Academic Award: Braden Carrier
Overall Top Cadet: Brad McKee
Immanuel Washington Outstanding Cadet Award: Brad McKee
During training, cadets learned to enforce boating laws, wildlife and fisheries regulations, and general law enforcement duties across Louisiana’s waterways, forests, and wildlife management areas.
Following graduation, the new agents will complete six months of field training before beginning full-time patrols. As commissioned officers, they will now join the ranks of those protecting Louisiana’s vast and diverse natural landscapes — from bayous and lakes to forests and the Gulf Coast.