MADERA - Madera Elk’s Lodge #1918 honored Senior Deputy District Attorney Paul Hornick as Prosecutor of the Year at its 46th annual Office of the Year awards dinner. Hornick joined the Madera County DA's office as a line attorney in 2015, and rose to his senior deputy position a year later after being chosen to head a political corruption task force to investigate wrongdoing in county government. His Elk’s award comes amid his race against rival Sally Moreno for district attorney.

“He’s a very hard worker,” said two-time recipient Todd Spangler, who serves as supervisor deputy district attorney. “Even though he didn’t go to Fresno State, he’s a bulldog and he just won’t let go. He’s most famous for ... prosecuting a one-legged man for driving while intoxicated. There’s a story behind that. It epitomizes his grabbing on and not letting go until he gets a conviction.”

Hornick, who said he was “humbled” by the recognition, received the award for consistent high performance as a prosecutor. Hornick lives in Madera with his wife Amber.

In all, the lodge honored nine law enforcement officers Thursday with the awards, which are generally “peer voted,” according to lodge brother David Opfergelt. More than 100 attended the barbecue dinner.

Other officers of the year were Nathaniel Cooper of the Chowchilla Police Department, Craig Lee of Valley State Prison, Frank Tapia of Central California Women’s Facility, Jim Yates of California Highway Patrol, Michael Chambers of Madera County Sheriff’s Office, Larry Zertuche of Madera County Probation Department, Jaron McAlister of Madera Police Department, and Brandie Beck, Madera County Department of Corrections.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.