Research Explainers Archives

Georgia’s Probation System: The Largest in the Nation and What It Means for Families

Georgia has 191,000 people on felony probation — the most in the nation. Black Georgians are at least 2x more likely to be on probation. Here’s what families need to know.

Half the Guards Are Gone: Georgia’s Prison Staffing Crisis Puts Lives at Risk

Almost half of all prison guard jobs in Georgia are empty. The DOJ says this leaves people unprotected. Here’s what families need to know.

Georgia’s Prison Budget Soars 44% in Four Years — While Families Still Pay the Price

Georgia’s prison budget jumped 44% in four years to nearly $1.78 billion. Families still pay millions in fees while people inside work without pay.

Georgia Senate Report Reveals Deep Crisis in State Prisons: What Families Need to Know

A Georgia Senate study found nearly half of prison guard jobs are empty, prisons are crumbling, and people are dying. Here’s what families need to know.

Black Georgians Make Up 31% of the State But 61% of People in Prison: What the Data Shows

Black Georgians are 31% of the state but 61% of people in prison. Data shows racial gaps at every step — from arrest to parole.

Georgia Is Granting Parole to Fewer People Every Year — Here’s What the Numbers Show

Georgia paroled 42% fewer people in FY24 than five years ago. Life sentences now average 29.2 years. Here’s what families need to know.

The DOJ Found Georgia Prisons Are Dangerously Broken. Here’s What That Means for Your Family.

The DOJ found Georgia prisons violate the Constitution. 142 people killed in 6 years. Half of all guard jobs are empty. Here’s what families need to know.

Georgia Plans to Spend $1.8 Billion on Prisons — Here’s Where the Money Goes

Georgia plans to spend $1.8 billion on prisons. Health costs are surging. Private prisons are growing. Here’s what families need to know.

The U.S. Government Found Georgia Prisons Are Dangerously Violent and Failing to Protect People

The DOJ found Georgia prisons violate the Constitution. 142 people killed in 6 years. Half of guard jobs are empty. Violence is constant and unchecked.

Georgia Prisons Crisis: How Broken Locks, Staff Shortages, and Violence Affect Your Loved One

A family guide to Georgia’s December 2024 prison system report: what broken locks, staff shortages, and doubled gang populations mean for your loved one’s safety and programs.