Hayden earns ‘Prosecutor of the Year’ award

SCHUYLER COUNTY—Schuyler County Assistant District Attorney Matt Hayden was awarded the Prosecutor of the Year for Trial Advocacy, Saturday, July 20, by the District Attorney’s Association of New York.
The award was presented during the District Attorney’s Association summer conference. This award is given annually to one assistant district attorney who has demonstrated dynamic trial skills, leadership, and selfless dedication to criminal prosecution in the Empire State. It is the highest award for an assistant prosecutor in the state of New York. This is the first time a prosecutor from Schuyler County has received this award.
Hayden was nominated by Schuyler County District Attorney Joseph Fazzary. In his nomination letter, Fazzary stated “Matt is an exceptionally hard working attorney and his integrity is beyond reproach. He is willing to try any case, from a speeding ticket or dog at large case, to an attempted murder case. He stands up in court every day as a voice for victims in Schuyler County.” Additionally, Fazzary stated “Matt is an asset to my office and to the DA’s Association. He routinely assists other district attorneys and assistant district attorneys around the Southern Tier. He is first class all the way and I am proud to have him as my chief ADA.”
Hayden said he started part-time at the Schuyler County District Attorney’s office in 2004 with a grant. Within one year the full-time position became open and Hayden moved up to chief assistant district attorney. He added he graduated from Hamilton College and the Maine School of Law.
Hayden explained Schuyler is different from the other counties recognized by the award because of its size. He said the previous recipients were usually heading up a specific department in that attorney’s office.
“I’m probably four bureaus myself,” said Hayden. He said he handles everything from curfew violations, loose dogs, to homicide. “It makes it so you can’t specialize in one thing.”
Hayden added he was “tremendously humbled” to receive the award. He said the honor also recognizes that smaller counties like Schuyler are just as important.
“And, this award is a testament not only to me, but also to local law enforcement, and to the entire staff of the district attorney’s office, who on a daily basis, strive to see that justice is done, and help keep the citizens of Schuyler County safe,” said Hayden.