TYLER, Texas — Two Smith County assistant district attorneys recently received a statewide award for their successful prosecution of the man who struck and killed Smith County Deputy Lorenzo Bustos in July 2022.
The Texas District and County Attorney Association named Smith County Assistant District Attorneys Chris Gatewood and Richard Vance as Lone Star Prosecutor of the Year. They received the award for the conviction and sentencing of Daniel Nyabuto, 22, of Grand Prairie, for driving drunk and crashing into Bustos while the deputy made a separate traffic stop on July 29, 2022.
In January, Nyabuto was sentenced to 32 years in prison for intoxication manslaughter of a peace officer following a trial. Bustos left behind a wife and three small children.
TDCAA is the statewide organization that provides training and support to county and district attorney offices across the state. The Lone Star Prosecutor of the Year award is given annually to prosecutors who demonstrated outstanding legal acumen, dedication to justice and a profound impact on their community.
Smith County District Attorney Jacob Putman said Vance and Gatewood are both experienced prosecutors committed to securing justice for victims and their families. They are also firm supporters of law enforcement.
"Richard and Chris are the last to seek personal recognition for their hard work but the first to recognize the achievements of those around them. Richard is a phenomenal example for his trial team and others in the District Attorney’s Office," Putman said. "Richard is a prosecutor’s prosecutor, a champion of justice, and he has made an everlasting impact in the community. Chris is always prepared and dedicated to seeing justice done in every case. He encourages the prosecutors he supervises as well as trying the tough cases."
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