Madison County Magistrate Named Judge Of The Year

REXBURG - At their recent annual banquet in Boise, the Idaho Wildlife Federation along with the Idaho Conservation Officers Association, named Madison County Magistrate Mark S. Rammell as Judge of the Year. The award was jointly presented to Judge Rammell by Federation President Kent Marlor of Rexburg and Idaho Conservation Officers Association Commissioner Lew Huddleston of the Upper Snake Region. While presenting the award, Marlor referenced Rammell's "ability to fairly and justly apply justice in cases of Fish and Game rule violations." Not just the sportsmen's' groups deeply appreciate Rammell, the conservation officers in the field that investigate the violations that result in individuals visiting Judge Rammell's court also say he's been very supportive. Senior Conservation Officer Lew Huddleston wrote in his nomination of Rammell, "His ability to recognize what level of deterrence is needed for the individual standing in his court. That level of deterrence may involve imposing minimum fines, maximum fines with additional license revocations or court imposed jail time." According to Huddleston, Rammell always backs up his words with action. "Judge Rammell will advise defendants that if they plead guilty to the charge against them they will do jail time. True to his word those defendants generally spend time in jail." Aside from knowing the law and enforcing it wisely, Rammell has a personal interest in protecting the wildlife resources of Idaho. According to both Marlor and Huddleston, "Rammell is an avid sportsman; especially enjoying fly fishing." This intimate knowledge of hunting and fishing helps him to be able tell when a fish story smells or when a person made an honest mistake. While the award carries no cash value, being selected as Judge of the Year by organizations like the Idaho Wildlife Federation and the Idaho Conservation Officers Association means a lot to Rammell. Rammell says he appreciates the award and gives praise to the groups that presented to him, "The Idaho Wildlife Federation, Kent Marlor and the Upper Valley have been strong advocates for wildlife and fisheries. Frankly, I wish to give credit to the officers that appear in my court. I find them to be fair to the public." As a judge, Rammell is able to offer a unique perspective on IDFG Officers in relation to court proceedings for those charged with wildlife violations, "I have handled countless cases and they exercise discretion. They come to court and tell me when the person charged with the crime is honest and cooperative. I think the public understands that Fish and Game has a tough job to do and they are doing the job the best they can."