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Recreational Safety and Hunter Education
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July 07, 2026
A Mecosta County jury unanimously agreed that Michigan Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Ryan Cox is innocent of charges stemming from an officer-involved shooting that occurred three years ago.
The case proceeded through multiple scheduling delays before going to trial. The trial concluded July 2. Cox faced the charge of assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder.
The charges stemmed from a May 13, 2023, incident in which Cox employed what was determined to be justified force during a violent attack that occurred while the conservation officer was off duty, camping with family at the Merrill-Gorrel County Park in Barryton.
Cox heard a woman screaming for help and intervened in hazardous conditions. Cox followed policy by announcing himself as a DNR conservation officer and using the appropriate verbal commands. When the physical violence escalated to include Cox’s father, Cox used what was determined to be justified force to stop the assailant.
"We are grateful that the legal process in this case has concluded and that a jury returned a not guilty verdict," said Chief Brandon Kieft of the DNR Law Enforcement Division. "Officer Cox has navigated the standard investigations and legal processes while maintaining his professionalism and commitment to those around him. We appreciate the jury’s recognition that he acted appropriately to protect others in dangerous circumstances.”
The DNR is working with the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards to return Cox to active duty within the DNR Law Enforcement Division. Cox has been on paid administrative leave while the court case was resolved.
Cox was represented by Ben Hall Law.Contact: Email 1st Lt. Jim Gorno, GornoJ1@Michigan.gov
Recent research suggests gray foxes may be harder to find than previously thought, and the DNR is asking the public to help locate them
Michigan’s 10 Forest Legacy projects range from 160 acres in size to more than 147,000 acres and include important ecological spots in the northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula. All of these projects are now on display in a new, interactive story map.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reconstructing the aging Net River Dam in southern Baraga County, a collaborative project that will restore water levels and improve the wetland habitat.
To help keep ORV recreation enjoyable and safe, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for off-road vehicle safety education grants to help fund certified instructors and ORV safety courses throughout the state.
If you spot a hen turkey leading a line of poults (baby turkeys) this summer, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources wants to hear from you.
This summer, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources will rehabilitate the South Unit at Houghton Lakes Flats, a popular spot for wildlife viewing and fishing just off U.S. 127 in Roscommon County.
Boaters in northern Michigan, get ready: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced Friday that the Cheboygan Lock has officially reopened.
America's 250th birthday is right around the corner! If your plans include outdoor time up north, at home or somewhere in between, here are a few ideas from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to keep your celebrations safe, sound and relaxation-ready.
If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity to help young people experience outdoor recreation – helping instill in them a sense of Michigan’s rich natural resources heritage and traditions – then the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is looking for you.
