Augusta State Medical Prison (Grovetown): capacity, deaths and violence, prosecutions, lawsuits, staffing, money and audits
Augusta State Medical Prison: the public record, 2015 to 2026
This collection sets out facts from public sources on the subject in its title, drawn from Georgia, Washington, national and multi-state sources and other sources. Each entry gives a short statement, the exact passage from the source that supports it, and the source's title, web address and the date it was retrieved. Searches of a source that found no match are listed too, with the wordings that were tried. The entries record what each source said when it was retrieved. They aren't a complete account of the subject, and they don't add analysis or conclusions.
Where this research is used
This page is a research collection: individual facts drawn from the sources listed further down, each traced to where it came from. A research topic brings many collections together into one overview of an issue. The facts on this page feed these 5 topics; open one to see how they fit with the rest of the evidence.
Healthcare & Medical Neglect
Georgia's prison medical system fails people at every stage — at intake, at sick call, in segregation, in the mental health unit, and on the death certificate. The federal investigation released in October 2024 found ten-month waits for a psychiatrist, roughly one in ten people with hepatitis C receiving treatment, and wounds dressed by other prisoners with toothpaste and dirt; the state's own written policies cut meals to two a day on more than 110 days a year and schedule medical rounds in segregation three times a week. This page collects what the record shows about medical, mental health, and nutritional care in Georgia prisons, names the dead the state has stopped explaining, and marks the places where the data simply stops.
4,164 data points
Mortality & Deaths in Custody
Georgia's prison system counts its dead reliably and names them reluctantly. In 2024, 333 people died in Georgia Department of Corrections custody — the deadliest year on the state record — and the department's own single-methodology series matches independent tracking to within a handful of deaths in every year since 2015. What the numbers do not carry is cause, facility, or identity: since March 2024 the department has withheld cause of death, misclassification of homicides and overdoses is documented by the federal Department of Justice and by GPS's own research, and the state's coroner system is not required to autopsy anyone who dies in custody.
7,815 data points
Oversight & Accountability
Georgia operates one of the largest state prison systems in the country with no independent ombudsman, no inspector general for corrections, no outside monitors with a right of entry, and no oversight bill that has ever passed its legislature. Every accountability mechanism that exists — PREA compliance, internal investigations, mortality review, accreditation — is housed inside the Georgia Department of Corrections and answers to the Commissioner it is meant to check. The result, documented across 108 GPS research collections, is a system that reported 6 homicides in a month when its own records showed at least 18, that passed 273 consecutive sexual-abuse audits with zero failed standards while the U.S. Department of Justice found assault rampant, and that has faced a 93-page federal findings letter, 82 recommended remedies, a contempt order, and daily court fines without a single enforceable reform.
15,407 data points
Staffing Crisis
Georgia's prison system has been running at roughly half the correctional officer strength it is funded for since mid-2021, with vacancy rates above 70 percent at a cluster of the largest and most violent facilities. The state's own consultants called the situation an emergency at 20 of 34 prisons, and the U.S. Department of Justice found the resulting absence of supervision unconstitutional. Churn rather than hiring is the core problem: 82.7 percent of new officers leave within their first year, which means the workforce is effectively rebuilt every two years and never accumulates experience.
8,680 data points
Violence & Safety
A three-year federal investigation concluded in October 2024 that Georgia's prison system violates the Eighth Amendment by failing to protect incarcerated people from violence and sexual abuse, documenting 142 homicides between 2018 and 2023 and finding that gangs control housing units while officers are absent for hours at a time. Independent counts put the death toll far above the state's own figures, and the gap between them is itself part of the story: Georgia's violence data is produced by the same understaffed, unmonitored system it describes.
9,940 data points
Key Findings
The most impactful data from this research collection. Tap a card for the full finding and its source.
The finding
Dr. Timothy Young, who spoke to WJBF on the night before his last day of work at Augusta State Medical Prison after 16 years, said he turned in his resignation letter at the end of December after facing retaliation for trying to shed light on issues at the facility in the Fall.
The finding
A former Augusta State Medical Prison correctional officer told WJBF that some lock-down units designed to keep inmates in their cells didn't have working locks, and that gates were broken or missing.
The finding
Wellpath alleged in a lawsuit that GDC signed a $2.4 billion deal with Centurion without giving Wellpath a fair chance to negotiate a new contract.
The finding
GDC did not post a request for proposal for the new healthcare contract, even though state agencies are normally required to do so for services costing over $100,000; instead GDC was given permission to sign with Centurion under the same bid from 2021, citing the need for an emergency.
The finding
Dr. Tim Young, who worked at Augusta State Medical Prison for 16 years, said that if an inmate had a serious condition it could be months before they saw a doctor, and as of the last week of January the backlog of requests was at 1,000.
The finding
A former Army nurse at Augusta State Medical Prison, Ellen Taylor, said critical delays in getting dressings changed for wounded patients occurred due to staffing shortages, and that a dialysis patient died in July 2019 from lack of treatment.
The finding
Dealing with asbestos discovered in floor tiles during a cleanup at Augusta State Medical Prison caused the operating room to be shut down for more than two months and increased the project's cost by tens of thousands of dollars.
The finding
The DOJ report states that an incarcerated man DOJ had interviewed at Macon State Prison in early 2023 reportedly died by homicide in late May 2024 at Augusta State Medical Prison, where he had been transferred. The victim had been attacked on multiple occasions in the years prior to his death, and two other incarcerated people and a GDC correctional officer were criminally charged.
The finding
Wiley was stabbed and cut at least 65 times, bled to death as inmates prevented staff from rendering medical care, according to testimony, and Ward and Dewberry were sentenced to life without parole.
The finding
At the estimated daily average cost of $3,681 that GDC pays hospitals for an admitted inmate, hospitalization totals over $1 million annually.
The finding
GDC reported that more than 1,000 surgical procedures are performed at Augusta State Medical Prison each year, the facility operates 26 specialty consult clinics, serves more than 60 dialysis patients, and is GDC's 340-B program hub site, with a modular surgical unit supplementing ASMP with approximately 1,000 additional procedures each year.
The finding
The Augusta Press stated that overall the data it reviewed show 11 inmate homicides at ASMP since 2020.
The finding
The Augusta Press reported that former ASMP correctional officers were federally indicted in 2025 for ignoring a fire that led to an inmate's death.
The finding
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison stated the facility has 220 nursing positions with 60 vacancies, with 50 of the positions being contract positions.
All Data Points
301 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
2017 AJC investigation of ASMP found mold, grime, insects, trash, and security lapses Finding
A 2017 investigation of Augusta State Medical Prison published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution revealed mold, grime, insects and piles of trash that created a breeding ground for infection at the facility, along with security lapses. Dr. Timothy Young was the source of anonymous statements during the investigation.
Social media account of ASMP physical conditions Finding
A person who contacted WJBF on social media said that at Augusta State Medical Prison, besides plumbing leaking and toilets not working, safety doors no longer shut, the doors separating officers from inmates no longer lock, windows are busted out, and the AC only works in the offices of the administration.
ASMP dialysis unit renovation bond authorization Statistic
The State of Georgia's General Obligation Bond Sale, Series 2019A and 2019B project list includes 'Renovation of the Dialysis Unit at Augusta State Medical Prison, Grovetown' for $2,405,000.
$2.4M USD
Anthony v. Farmer dismissed with prejudice (2025) Legal fact
In Anthony v. Farmer, after a settlement conference and settlement, the court ordered the matter dismissed with prejudice and directed the clerk to terminate all motions and deadlines and close the case. Each party was to bear its own costs and fees unless otherwise agreed. Signed by District Judge J. Randal Hall on 04/02/2025.
ASMP officer charged with felony murder in Roderick Hayes death Case detail
The AJC reported that Lloyd Hopkins, a correctional officer at Augusta State Medical Prison, was charged with felony murder, aggravated assault and violation of oath by a public officer in connection with the death of Roderick Hayes.
Three former ASMP officers indicted for 2014 beating of handcuffed inmate Case detail
Former Augusta State Medical Prison correctional officers John Williams, Antonio Binns and Justin Washington were charged in the Southern District of Georgia with a civil rights violation for their alleged role in the beating of an inmate known as C.V. on Feb. 13, 2014. Binns and Washington were also charged with one count of obstruction of justice for allegedly writing false reports covering up the assault. The indictment alleges the assault occurred while C.V. was handcuffed behind his back.
FY2014 GDC-GRU health contract amended with $2M for 340B loss Statistic
In FY2014 the GDC-GRU inmate health contract amount was amended mid-year: the original contract amount was $158.9 million, and $2 million was added to compensate for the temporary loss of 340B pricing.
$158.9M vs. 2 million dollars added for 340B loss
PREA Cycle 4 audit: 39 standards met at ASMP Statistic
A PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison found 39 standards met.
39 standards met
ASMP guard arrested for contraband Case detail
Augusta State Medical Prison guard Nicole Rosario was arrested while attempting to enter the facility with contraband, and remained in Richmond County jail on charges of violation of oath by a public officer, giving convicts articles without the consent of the warden, and trading with convicts without permission, with bond listed at $5,700 for each charge.
ASMP Warden Ted Philbin oversees 447 staff and 1,326 close security male offenders Statistic
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier reassigned Ted Philbin to Warden at Augusta State Medical Prison effective December 1, 2017, where he would oversee 447 staff members and 1,326 close security male offenders.
1,326 offenders
Nine inmates injured in gang-related fight at Dooly State Prison Statistic
Nine inmates were injured in a 'gang-related' altercation at Dooly State Prison, prompting a statewide lockdown, according to the Georgia Department of Corrections.
9 inmates
William Taylor Bodge listed among confirmed killings at ASMP Case detail
The Augusta Press listed William Taylor Bodge, with cause described as complications from blunt trauma, in its list of confirmed or officially reported killings at Augusta State Medical Prison.
ASMP long-term care unit 98% occupancy, Feb-Apr 2004 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' Inmate Health Care report found that ASMP's 20-bed Assisted Living Level 2 unit for inmates needing long-term care was consistently full during February through April 2004, with a 98% occupancy rate; all 20 beds were occupied for 47 of 63 weekdays (75%).
98%
Dr. Tim Young's breaking point at ASMP Case detail
Dr. Tim Young, who worked at Augusta State Medical Prison for 16 years, said his breaking point came on October 2.
Dr. Timothy Young resigned from ASMP at end of December after retaliation for raising issues Case detail
Dr. Timothy Young, who spoke to WJBF on the night before his last day of work at Augusta State Medical Prison after 16 years, said he turned in his resignation letter at the end of December after facing retaliation for trying to shed light on issues at the facility in the Fall.
Former officer: lock-down units lacked working locks Finding
A former Augusta State Medical Prison correctional officer told WJBF that some lock-down units designed to keep inmates in their cells didn't have working locks, and that gates were broken or missing.
ASMP heating/roof/chiller/kitchen replacement bond authorization Statistic
The State of Georgia's General Obligation Bond Sale, Series 2019A and 2019B project list includes 'Replacement of underground heating loops, roof, chillers and a cooler tower, and kitchen floors, drains, and piping, at Augusta State Medical Prison, Grovetown' for $2,540,000.
$2.5M USD
Danenberg v. Philbin dismissed without prejudice (2019) Legal fact
In Danenberg v. Philbin, the case was dismissed without prejudice; the court vacated its prior Report and Recommendation and terminated all pending motions and deadlines. Signed by Magistrate Judge Brian K. Epps on 12/20/2019.
Two inmates charged in Roderick Hayes homicide at ASMP Case detail
The AJC reported that inmates Brendon Moore and Andy Ulysse were charged with felony murder and aggravated assault in connection with the death of Roderick Hayes at Augusta State Medical Prison.
Two former ASMP guards acquitted in inmate death Case detail
WRDW reported that two former guards at Augusta State Medical Prison, named in the article as Robert Roberson and Marcus Phillips, were found not guilty in connection with the death of an inmate. Roberson was also acquitted of a charge of falsifying a logbook to cover up misconduct.
GCHC spent ~$178M on physical health care in FY2008 Statistic
In fiscal year 2008, GCHC expended approximately $178 million for physical health care services under the GDC contract.
$178M
PREA Cycle 5 final report submitted 12/19/2025 by auditor Darla P. O'Connor Case detail
A PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison had a final report submission date of 12/19/2025 and was conducted by auditor Darla P. O'Connor.
ASMP guard employment tenure Case detail
Nicole Rosario, the Augusta State Medical Prison guard arrested on suspicion of trying to bring in contraband for an inmate, was fired and had been employed by the Georgia Department of Corrections since May 2021.
ASMP Warden Ted Philbin oversees 447 staff members Statistic
As Warden at ASMP, Ted Philbin was responsible for overseeing 447 staff members.
447 staff
LaTonya King promoted to Special Assistant to the Warden at ASMP Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver promoted LaTonya King, Compliance Monitor at the Special Management Unit, to Special Assistant to the Warden at Augusta State Medical Prison, effective May 1, 2026.
ASMP long-term care unit all 20 beds occupied 47 of 63 weekdays Statistic
During February through April 2004, all 20 beds in ASMP's Assisted Living Level 2 unit were occupied for 47 of 63 weekdays (75%).
47 weekdays vs. 63 total weekdays in period
Inmates rescheduled up to 23 times due to security failures Finding
Dr. Young showed WJBF an email he sent about inmates being rescheduled up to 23 times because security failed to bring them to appointments.
Dr. Timothy Young quit ASMP outpatient medical director post in January 2018 after 16 years Case detail
Dr. Timothy Young quit his job as medical director of the outpatient facility at Augusta State Medical Prison in January 2018 after 16 years on the job.
WJBF investigation interviewed 11 sources on ASMP Methodology note
WJBF's investigation spoke with 11 sources, including parents of inmates and former employees of Augusta State Medical Prison, and found that former correctional officers said they felt unsafe at work. All but one of the former employees spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution.
ASMP asbestos abatement and window replacement bond authorization Statistic
The State of Georgia's General Obligation Bond Sale, Series 2019A and 2019B project list includes 'Asbestos abatement and the replacement of exterior windows, Augusta State Medical Prison, Augusta' for $5,455,000.
$5.5M USD
Lonon v. Philbin partial dismissal (2021) Legal fact
In Lonon v. Philbin, the court adopted the Magistrate Judge's Report and Recommendation, dismissing Defendants ASMP and Philbin along with all official-capacity claims for money damages against all Defendants. The case proceeded against Officer Smith, Officer Scott, and Defendant Solen as described in the Magistrate Judge's March 8, 2021 Order.
Georgia Supreme Court affirms ASMP yard stabbing murder convictions Legal fact
The Supreme Court of Georgia affirmed the convictions of Michael Lorenzo Ward and Frederick Dewberry, two of six inmates indicted for the prison yard stabbing death of Antonio Wiley on Aug. 28, 2011, at Augusta State Medical Prison.
Summary judgment for defendants in Smith v. Augusta State Medical Prison Legal fact
In Smith v. Augusta State Medical Prison, the court granted summary judgment for defendants Eric Andrews and Sylvester Hagins, entering final judgment against the plaintiff on an Eighth Amendment failure-to-protect claim.
ASMP provides acute/specialized surgery and 340B infectious disease clinic Finding
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts report describes Augusta State Medical Prison as providing acute and specialized medical services including surgeries, and as housing an infectious disease clinic that provides care to inmates through the federal 340B drug program, which allows the state to obtain drugs at a reduced rate.
ASMP PREA Cycle 5: 358 staff with inmate contact Statistic
At the time of a PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison, it reported 358 staff currently employed at the facility who may have contact with inmates.
358 staff
Understaffing in ASMP mental health unit Finding
On an April night in 2020, Jerry Lackey was in the mental health unit at Augusta State Medical Prison and was supposed to be checked every 15 minutes, but only one officer was available in that unit and that officer was needed elsewhere for much of the evening.
ASMP Interim Warden Victor Walker oversees approximately 1,157 male offenders Statistic
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver appointed Victor Walker to Interim Warden at Augusta State Medical Prison effective July 1, 2023, overseeing approximately 1,157 male offenders.
1,157 offenders
ASMP is GDC's main medical facility Finding
GDC's annual report states that while most facilities have an infirmary for treatment of minor medical needs, Augusta State Medical Prison is the Department's main medical facility, able to handle a wide range of medical, mental health and dental services needs.
ASMP facility turnover rate 2010-2013 Trend
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' staffing turnover table for GDC state prisons shows Augusta State Medical Prison's facility turnover rate as 18% in 2010, 23% in 2011, 32% in 2012, and 31% in 2013.
ASMP operating room offline due to known maintenance issue Finding
When Dr. Young spoke with WJBF, he said the ASMP operating room was offline and not doing cases because of a maintenance issue that had been known about for some time.
Young's resignation letter cited poor maintenance, tolerance of substandard care, and staff safety concerns Finding
Dr. Timothy Young, ASMP's outpatient medical director, quit in January 2018 after 16 years on the job, citing in his resignation letter poor maintenance at ASMP, tolerance of substandard health care by management, and safety concerns for himself and other medical staff.
Dr. Young: ASMP deteriorated under Warden Stan Shepard Finding
A warden named Stan Shepard was at Augusta State Medical Prison for three years before Warden Wilkes took over in 2016, and according to Dr. Young the facility deteriorated over that three-year period.
Total 2019 bond authorization for ASMP projects Statistic
The three Augusta State Medical Prison projects in the Georgia General Obligation Bond Sale, Series 2019A and 2019B project list (dialysis unit renovation, underground heating/roof/chiller/kitchen replacement, and asbestos abatement/window replacement) total $10,400,000 in bond authorization (calculated as 2,405,000 + 2,540,000 + 5,455,000).
$10.4M USD
Former ASMP officer Antonio Binns sentenced to probation and fine (2017) Legal fact
Former ASMP officer Antonio Binns (2) was sentenced to 5 years probation, a $2,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment on Count 1, with Count 2 dismissed. Signed by Judge J. Randal Hall on 04/12/2017.
Hardy v. GDC remaining defendants include unknown ASMP nurses Legal fact
In Hardy v. Georgia Department of Corrections, the court's September 2019 order terminated defendants Chatman, Burnside, and Gore, and an October 2019 scheduling entry lists 'Unknown Augusta State Medical Prison Nurses' and 'Unknown Prison Health Service Provider' among the remaining defendants required to answer.
Civil rights lawsuit filed on behalf of Griggs and Maddox; state lost motion to dismiss Case detail
A civil rights lawsuit alleging a pattern of abuse at Augusta State Medical Prison was filed on behalf of Eugene Griggs and Cameron Maddox. The state lost its motion to dismiss because the judge determined the alleged suffering Maddox endured was not 'routine.'
GDC began MCG/GCHC physical health contract in July 1997 Policy
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit reported that in July 1997, GDC began contracting with Medical College of Georgia (then known as Georgia Regent's University, GRU), which created the Georgia Correctional HealthCare (GCHC) unit to operate the physical health care contract for GDC inmates.
ASMP PREA Cycle 5: designed capacity 1,312; current population 1,160 Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison reported the designed facility capacity as 1312 and the current population of facility as 1160.
1,312 designed capacity vs. 1,160 current population
Officer describes impossible job due to poor staffing Quote
Former Augusta State Medical Prison officer Charles Powell told the AJC that it was basically impossible to do the job because of poor staffing, and that different emergencies came up that couldn't be dealt with when there was one officer instead of three or four.
ASMP houses 1,141 close security male offenders in 2015 Statistic
At the time of Betty McGrew's promotion to Deputy Warden of Security effective July 1, 2015, Augusta State Medical Prison housed 1,141 close security male offenders.
1,141 offenders
FY2017 bond funded project for Metro State Prison Statistic
A GSFIC presentation's 'State Agencies, FY2017 Bond Funded Projects' slide lists the Department of Corrections project as 'Dept. of Corrections, Metro State Prison $13,735,000.'
$13.7M USD
ASMP medical bed capacity breakdown Statistic
Augusta State Medical Prison has 95 acute-care hospital beds, another 40 beds for nursing care plus 20 long-term care beds, and 15 beds for pre- and post-operation patients.
95 acute-care hospital beds
GDC top health official overseeing ASMP improvement plan Policy
GDC's top health official, Randy Sauls, told the Atlanta Journal Constitution he was personally overseeing a plan to improve sanitation and security at Augusta State Medical Prison, after the Department of Corrections did not respond to WJBF's calls and messages.
Dr. Mark Taylor warned ASMP staffing shortages endangered inmates' lives Finding
Dr. Mark Taylor warned that severe staffing shortages at Augusta State Medical Prison were putting inmates' lives in danger, and he blamed the shortages on a punitive work environment.
Sanitation worsened after clinic cleaner removed as security risk Finding
Dr. Young said sanitation at Augusta State Medical Prison got really bad when the inmate assigned to clean the clinic was removed because he was a security risk.
Wellpath lawsuit over Centurion $2.4 billion contract Legal fact
Wellpath alleged in a lawsuit that GDC signed a $2.4 billion deal with Centurion without giving Wellpath a fair chance to negotiate a new contract.
Antonio Binns probation terminated early (2021) Legal fact
Antonio Binns's probation was terminated early by court order on March 2, 2021, granting his Motion for Early Termination of Probation. Signed by Chief Judge J. Randal Hall.
ASMP officer arrested with contraband in vehicle Case detail
On December 29, at Augusta State Medical Prison, Canine Units were alerted to contraband in Officer William Moss's vehicle, consisting of .06 grams of marijuana and an unopened bottle of alcohol; Officer Moss was placed under arrest by the Richmond County Sheriff's Office.
Inmate Roderick Hayes killed at ASMP; officer and two inmates charged Case detail
The AJC reported that Roderick Hayes, an inmate at Augusta State Medical Prison, was killed on Saturday, and that a correctional officer was fired the same day and charged with murder, with two inmates also charged in the case.
Life sentences upheld for 2011 murder of ASMP inmate Antonio Wiley Case detail
Frederick Dewberry and Michael Lorenzo Ward were each sentenced to serve life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder and 20 years to be served consecutively for the aggravated assault, in connection with the Aug. 28, 2011 stabbing death of fellow Augusta State Medical Prison inmate Antonio Wiley.
ASMP PREA Cycle 5: average daily population 1,177 over past 12 months Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison reported the average daily population for the past 12 months as 1177.
1,177 average daily population
Officer fired after inmate suicide, documents falsified Finding
Charles Powell had worked at Augusta State Medical Prison for seven years when he was fired after failing to monitor Lackey on the night the inmate committed suicide, and he told investigators that documents were routinely falsified because there wasn't enough staff to do the required rounds.
ASMP Deputy Warden of Security Michael Paschal supervises approximately 190 security staff Statistic
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward promoted Michael Paschal to Deputy Warden of Security at Augusta State Medical Prison effective January 1, 2021, supervising approximately 190 security staff members.
190 security staff
Tamika Harvey promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at ASMP Case detail
GDC Commissioner Ward announced the promotion of Tamika Harvey to Deputy Warden of Security at Augusta State Medical Prison effective August 16, 2019.
Augusta University provides prison medical services under GDC contract Policy
Augusta University provides prison medical services under a contract with the Georgia Department of Corrections, per AJC reporting on Dr. Mark Taylor's whistleblower email.
ASMP is a 1,326-bed facility under $190M GCHC contract Finding
A 2017 investigation found the 1,326-bed Augusta State Medical Prison, operated by Georgia Correctional Health Care under a $190 million annual contract for GDC, had 'a myriad of unsafe and unsanitary conditions.'
First confirmed COVID-19 case in GDC was an employee Statistic
GDC announced that an employee at one of the 34 state prisons had tested positive for COVID-19, the first confirmed case within GDC, with no positive cases reported within the offender population at that time.
1 confirmed case
Shepard's assistant regional director salary and new position Statistic
Former ASMP warden Stan Shepard made more than $100,000 a year as an assistant regional director for the Department of Corrections, a position created for him to oversee 16 facilities that did not exist until 2016; there are now five assistant regional managers.
$100,000 USD per year
GDC bypassed RFP requirement for Centurion contract Policy
GDC did not post a request for proposal for the new healthcare contract, even though state agencies are normally required to do so for services costing over $100,000; instead GDC was given permission to sign with Centurion under the same bid from 2021, citing the need for an emergency.
Jury convicts Deontae Holsey in 2021 ASMP inmate killing Case detail
A Columbia County jury returned a guilty verdict in the 2021 slaying of an inmate at Augusta State Medical Prison. After deliberating about a day, the jury late Friday found Holsey guilty of felony murder in Bennett's death.
Anthony v. GDC dismissed after settlement conference Legal fact
Anthony v. Georgia Department of Corrections named the same set of ASMP officials as defendants as in the Giles case (Roberson, Phillips, Crite, Seals, Brown, and Warden Philbin), with the original plaintiff Terry Anthony later substituted by Terry Louis Anthony, Sr., a settlement conference was ordered, and the case was dismissed under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(a)(1)(A)(ii) in April 2025.
Arrest warrants: officer helped assault inmate with machete-like weapon over cell phone Case detail
The AJC reported that according to arrest warrants, Hopkins helped Moore, Ulysse and Hayes assault another inmate with a "machete like weapon" in an attempt to retrieve a contraband cell phone, but the inmate who was targeted in the attack, Robert Robish, defended himself and stabbed Hayes.
ASMP PREA Cycle 5: 2 standards exceeded, 43 met, 0 not met Statistic
A PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison found 2 standards exceeded, 43 standards met, and 0 standards not met. The exceeded standards were 115.17 - Hiring and promotion decisions and 115.18 - Upgrades to facilities and technologies.
43 standards met vs. 2 standards exceeded
Inmate suicide details Case detail
Lackey was 39 years old, had spent 10 years in prison, and was found hanging in his cell in the mental health unit at Augusta State Medical Prison early in the morning on April 8, 2020.
ASMP Deputy Warden of Security Michael Paschal oversees 1,840 medium-security male offenders Statistic
As Deputy Warden of Security at ASMP effective January 1, 2021, Michael Paschal was responsible for 1,840 medium-security male offenders.
1,840 offenders
Barbra Colón promoted to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at ASMP Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Barbra Colón to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Augusta State Medical Prison, effective May 16, 2022.
Nursing assistant allegedly struck disabled inmate Bruce Smith at ASMP Case detail
According to arrest warrants, Shields, a certified nursing assistant with access to the prison's infirmary, allegedly struck 56-year-old inmate Bruce Smith with an open hand on Feb. 14, around dinnertime, at Augusta State Medical Prison.
ASMP medical request backlog at 1,000 as of late January Statistic
Dr. Tim Young, who worked at Augusta State Medical Prison for 16 years, said that if an inmate had a serious condition it could be months before they saw a doctor, and as of the last week of January the backlog of requests was at 1,000.
1,000 medical requests backlogged
GDC COVID-19 dashboard: 11 inmate cases, 1 death, 11 staff cases Statistic
GDC reported eleven positive COVID-19 cases and one death in the offender population statewide, and eleven reported positive cases among staff, in a dashboard update.
11 positive cases vs. 1 offender deaths
Shepard promoted to Regional Director of Southeast Region Case detail
Stan Shepard was later promoted again to Regional Director of the Southeast Region, effective January 1.
Holsey beat cellmate Terry Lee Bennett to death with food tray Case detail
Deontae Lashun Holsey, 29, was accused of beating his cell mate, Terry Lee Bennett, to death using a hard plastic food tray after binding the man's wrists and ankles.
Deshawn Jones reassigned as ASMP warden effective June 16, 2024 Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Deshawn Jones, Warden at Phillips State Prison, to Warden at Augusta State Medical Prison effective June 16, 2024.
GDC suspends visitation statewide through April 10, 2020 Policy
Following Governor Kemp's directive, GDC suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide, with the suspension in effect through April 10, 2020.
ASMP opened 1982 as Augusta Correctional Medical Institute; renamed 1995 Finding
The Augusta Correctional Medical Institute opened in 1982 and the name was changed to Augusta State Medical Prison in 1995.
ASMP bed counts from state audit Statistic
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts table of GDC facility bed counts lists Augusta State Medical Prison as Male, Special Mission, with an Average Standard Bed Count of 1,031, an Average Special Use Bed Count of 117, and an Average Physical Bed Count of 1,147.
ASMP capital budget line item of $10,400,000 for dialysis unit, asbestos abatement, mechanical systems Statistic
Board of Corrections minutes from May 2019 list a capital budget item: 'ASMP - Dialysis unit, Asbestos Abatement, Mechanical Systems - $10,400,000.'
$10.4M USD
ASMP COVID-19 cases: 61 staff positive, 107 offender positive Statistic
GDC's archived 'Confirmed COVID-19 Cases' page listed Augusta State Medical Prison (ASMP) with 61 staff positive, 34 staff recovered, 107 offender positive, and 61 offender recovered confirmed COVID-19 cases.
61 staff positive vs. 107 offender positive
Former ASMP nurse quit July 2019 over unsafe staffing Case detail
Prison Legal News reported that former Augusta State Medical Prison nurse Jackie Mitchell quit in July 2019 after being forced to work shifts caring for dozens of patients who should have had two or three nurses tending to them, with some diabetic patients having dangerously high glucose levels after nurses were instructed to reduce the frequency of blood-sugar checks.
Officer fired and arrested after ASMP inmate death Case detail
Lloyd Edward Hopkins, 51, was fired from the Georgia Department of Corrections and arrested for failing to follow policies and procedures while working at Augusta State Medical Prison, after ASMP inmate Roderick Hayes, 39, died as a result of an altercation.
Indictment: officers left inmate in burning cell Oct. 28, 2020 Case detail
The indictment alleged that on Oct. 28, 2020, Roberson and Phillips became aware of a smoldering fire in an inmate's cell, and rather than extinguish the fire, evacuate the inmate, remediate the smoke or call a fire emergency over the radio, they willfully disregarded the substantial risk of serious harm by leaving him in his locked cell for several hours while he slowly died from smoke inhalation.
Holsey sentenced to life without parole Legal fact
Columbia County Superior Court Judge Barry Fleming sentenced Holsey to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
GDC board discussed ASMP medical services transition to Augusta University Policy
At a Board of Corrections meeting, GDC's Chief of Staff Alan Watson discussed contract finalization and the target for notification to Augusta University, employee notification, the transition, and the final transition for all services except 340B.
Visitation suspension maintained access via mail, phone, GOAL devices Policy
GDC said that following a directive issued by Governor Kemp, it suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide, with the suspension in effect through April 10, 2020, while offenders continued to have access to loved ones via mail, phone calls and GOAL devices.
ASMP's 61 acres donated in 1976 by U.S. Dept. of Health, Education and Welfare Finding
ASMP's 61 acres were donated by the United States Department of Health, Education and Welfare in 1976 to the Georgia Department of Offender Rehabilitation to be used for educational purposes.
Wellpath lawsuit over Centurion contract Legal fact
Wellpath, the Nashville-based company that has provided healthcare for GDC since 2021, alleged in a lawsuit that its price was "objectively lower" than the $2.4 billion GDC agreed to pay Centurion for a contract of similar length, and that GDC awarded that $2.4 billion contract without the competitive process required under state law.
Centurion/MHM mental and dental health contract commenced July 1, 2019, with nine annual renewal options Legal fact
The 2019 Centurion/MHM mental and dental health contract with GDC commenced on July 1, 2019, and includes nine annual renewal options; the original contract began in 1997 and was held by MHM Correctional Services, Inc., since acquired by Centene Corporation.
ASMP COVID-19 deaths: 0 staff, 3 offenders Statistic
GDC's archived COVID-19 page listed Augusta State Medical Prison (ASMP) with 0 staff deaths and 3 offender deaths under 'Confirmed COVID-19 Deaths'.
3 offender deaths vs. staff deaths
Dialysis patient died July 2019 from lack of treatment, former nurse says Case detail
A former Army nurse at Augusta State Medical Prison, Ellen Taylor, said critical delays in getting dressings changed for wounded patients occurred due to staffing shortages, and that a dialysis patient died in July 2019 from lack of treatment.
Charges against former ASMP officer Hopkins Legal fact
Hopkins was charged with Party to the crime of Murder, Party to the crime of Aggravated Assault, and Violation of Oath of Office, and was held at the Columbia County Detention Center without bond.
Roderick Hayes sentence and commitment date Case detail
Roderick Hayes had been sentenced to 25 years in state custody for Trafficking of Person for Labor or Sexual Servitude and was serving 10 years for another charge, and was committed to state imprisonment in July 2018.
Roberson acquitted of falsifying logbook Legal fact
Roberson was also acquitted of a charge of falsifying a logbook to cover up misconduct.
ASMP sits on Columbia–Richmond county line, complicating incident jurisdiction Finding
The prison's location is on the county line dividing Columbia and Richmond counties; although it is technically considered Grovetown, the county line runs through the middle of the mental health unit, and authorities must routinely determine which side of the county line an incident occurred on.
J. Kevin Perry appointed Interim Warden at ASMP effective May 16, 2023 Policy
Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the appointment of J. Kevin Perry to Interim Warden at Augusta State Medical Prison, effective May 16, 2023.
Nurses not formally notified of asbestos three weeks after positive test Finding
Three weeks after floor tiles at Augusta State Medical Prison tested positive for asbestos, three operating room nurses wanted to know why they hadn't been formally notified.
Warden Scott Wilkes presented ASMP overview at Board of Corrections Case detail
Scott Wilkes was Warden of Augusta State Medical Prison as of a Georgia Board of Corrections meeting, where he presented an overview of ASMP.
Wellpath claims lower price Legal fact
Wellpath asserted that its price was "objectively lower" than the $2.4 billion the GDC agreed to pay Centurion for a contract of similar length.
Centurion provides mental and dental health services at over 30 Georgia state prison facilities Statistic
Under the contract, Centurion provides mental and dental health services on site at over 30 Georgia state prison facilities, for a prison system with an average daily population of nearly 52,000 inmates.
30 facilities
FY2018 DOC bond-funded capital subtotal $43,725,000 Statistic
OPB's Budget in Brief lists a Department of Corrections bond-funded capital subtotal of $43,725,000.
$43.7M USD
AJC photos show standing water, filth near ASMP operating room Finding
Photos obtained by the AJC showed standing water and filth from leaking ceilings only feet away from the operating room, pads on the floor to soak up leaking rain water, and air vents covered with dust and debris at Augusta State Medical Prison.
2015 stabbing of officer Nikki Reynolds at ASMP Case detail
The Augusta Press reported that James Leon Washington's violent behavior includes an incident in August 2015 when he attacked prison officer Nikki Reynolds at Augusta State Medical Prison, stabbing her multiple times when she opened his cell door to deliver a food tray, and that Reynolds suffered lasting effects from the attack.
Nursing assistant Janette Shields arrested for abuse of disabled inmate Case detail
Janette Shields, a 67-year-old nursing assistant from Augusta, was arrested on Feb. 24 for charges of simple battery and exploitation of an elderly or disabled person, and was booked into the Charles B. Webster Detention Center and later released on bond.
No ASMP match in ABC News drone-contraband investigation Data gap
A search of the ABC News article '150 arrested for allegedly using drones to transport drugs, guns, cellphones into Georgia prisons' for 'Augusta', 'Augusta State Medical' and 'ASMP' returned no match, indicating ASMP is not named in that contraband investigation coverage.
Federal indictment of former ASMP officers Roberson and Phillips unsealed Aug. 7, 2025 Legal fact
A two-count indictment was unsealed Aug. 7, 2025 in the Southern District of Georgia charging former Augusta State Medical Prison correctional officers Robert Roberson and Marcus Phillips with violating the constitutional rights of an inmate by showing deliberate indifference to a substantial risk of harm resulting in his death.
Three former ASMP guards sentenced to probation for beating handcuffed inmate Case detail
In April 2017, three former guards at Augusta State Medical Prison were sentenced to probation for beating an inmate whose hands were cuffed behind his back.
Wellpath opted out of contract early Legal fact
Wellpath informed GDC that it would opt out of its contract on June 30, 2024, only three years into a nine-year deal.
Georgia prison system average daily population nearly 52,000 inmates Statistic
Centene described the Georgia Department of Corrections as one of the largest prison systems in the US, with an average daily population of nearly 52,000 inmates.
52,000 inmates
FY2019 DOC bond-funded capital subtotal $2,500,000 Statistic
OPB's Budget in Brief lists a Department of Corrections bond-funded capital subtotal of $2,500,000.
$2.5M USD
Trash piled outside ASMP operating room for two weeks Case detail
Trash was piled up outside the operating room at Augusta State Medical Prison on Oct. 2, and two weeks later the problem remained despite complaints from the medical director.
GDC statement on 2024 ASMP officer stabbing Case detail
According to Joan Heath, Communications Director for the Department of Corrections, the incident occurred when Washington used a homemade weapon to injure the correctional officer at Augusta State Medical Prison, and the officer's injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
Inmate John Jaquis Trimer accused of stabbing Jerry Merritt Case detail
WJBF reported that John Jaquis Trimer is accused of stabbing Jerry Merritt with a 'sharpened object' in the chest and shoulder resulting in Merritt's death, and that the incident happened January 20th at the facility located on Gordon Highway in Grovetown.
Wellpath chosen in 2021; Augusta University division served prior 23 years Policy
Wellpath was chosen as GDC's medical provider in 2021 when the agency decided to privatize its healthcare; Georgia Correctional HealthCare, a division of Augusta University, had been the prison system's medical provider for the previous 23 years.
No ASMP match in GDC COVID-19 press releases Data gap
A search of the Georgia Department of Corrections COVID-19 press releases archive for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta' and 'ASMP' returned no match.
GDC confirms Moore and Ulysse charged in Hayes homicide Case detail
In the Roderick Hayes homicide case at Augusta State Medical Prison, GDC said inmates Brendon Moore and Andy Ulysse have been charged with felony murder and aggravated assault.
Asbestos shut ASMP operating room for over two months, raised costs Finding
Dealing with asbestos discovered in floor tiles during a cleanup at Augusta State Medical Prison caused the operating room to be shut down for more than two months and increased the project's cost by tens of thousands of dollars.
GCHC managed GDC physical health care and employed physicians and most nurses Finding
Georgia Correctional HealthCare (GCHC) was a division of the Medical College of Georgia that managed physical health care operations in GDC facilities and employed the physicians, clinical practitioners, and most of the nurses, while also negotiating and managing contracts with outside providers such as hospitals, specialty clinics and ambulance services.
DOJ: incarcerated man interviewed at Macon State Prison died by homicide at ASMP in May 2024 Case detail
The DOJ report states that an incarcerated man DOJ had interviewed at Macon State Prison in early 2023 reportedly died by homicide in late May 2024 at Augusta State Medical Prison, where he had been transferred. The victim had been attacked on multiple occasions in the years prior to his death, and two other incarcerated people and a GDC correctional officer were criminally charged.
Lawsuit filing details Legal fact
The lawsuit was filed May 7 in Fulton County Superior Court and names GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver, Jim Barnaby (deputy commissioner of the Georgia Department of Administrative Services), and Centurion of Georgia as respondents.
GDC SOP 507.04.14 requires on-site clinician 24/7 for ASMP admissions Policy
GDC SOP 507.04.14 requires a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or physician to be available on-site 24 hours per day, seven days per week, serving as the on-call provider for admissions to ASMP or local hospitals after business hours, weekends, and holidays.
FY2017 DOC emergency repairs bond $3,000,000 Statistic
OPB's Budget in Brief lists a Department of Corrections bond-funded capital item, 'Emergency repairs, sustainment, and equipment, statewide,' with a $3,000,000 principal amount.
$3.0M USD
Cancer patients described broken, dirty toilets and showers in ASMP dorms Finding
An AJC investigation found two inmates diagnosed with cancer described broken and dirty toilets and showers and other germ-related issues in the dormitories where they had to recover after surgery at Augusta State Medical Prison.
James Leon Washington's history of assaults on guards Case detail
James Leon Washington, 33, is serving decades of additional prison time for assaults on guards dating back to his time in juvenile detention.
AJC: Roberson charged with falsifying logbook Legal fact
Roberson is also charged with falsifying a logbook to cover up his misconduct.
No ASMP match in FY2026 budget bill (HB 68) Data gap
A search of the Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 68 (FY2026 appropriations) for 'Augusta State Medical' and 'ASMP' returned no match.
AJC investigation: asbestos found during ASMP cleanup Finding
The AJC's continuing investigation reported that cleanup efforts to improve conditions at Augusta State Medical Prison, GDC's flagship prison medical facility, uncovered asbestos in floor tiles, which shut down the operating room for more than two months and raised the project's cost by tens of thousands of dollars.
MHM Services was a GDC health care staffing agency distinct from GCHC Finding
MHM Services, Inc. (MHM) was a health care staffing agency utilized by GDC, distinct from GCHC which handled physical health care.
DOJ sidebar 'SEXUAL VIOLENCE AT ASMP': May 2022 cell-wall hole incident Case detail
The DOJ findings report's sidebar titled 'SEXUAL VIOLENCE AT ASMP' states that in May 2022, a correctional officer at Augusta State Medical Prison found a large hole in the wall between two cells, the officer handcuffed an incarcerated person who was in the wrong room, and then another incarcerated man came out from under the bed, bleeding from his head.
Wellpath invested $40 million in Georgia Statistic
Wellpath alleged it had to invest more than $40 million of its own funds to stabilize its Georgia workforce, catch up on an inherited backlog of patient care, and improve GDC's healthcare system.
$40M
ASMP in-house laboratory and radiology services hours 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday Policy
GDC SOP 507.04.14 sets ASMP in-house laboratory and radiology services hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, with stat/urgent services available after hours via a local hospital.
FY2016 DOC emergency repairs bond $3,500,000 Statistic
OPB's Budget in Brief lists a Department of Corrections bond-funded capital item, 'Emergency repairs, sustainment, and equipment, statewide,' with a $3,500,000 principal amount, under 'Safe Georgia.'
$3.5M USD
Internal emails document surgery equipment failures and pest contamination at ASMP Finding
Internal emails documented equipment failing during surgeries at ASMP, power going out during a urology case, and surgeries being cancelled because of temperature and humidity inside the building, with one email stating 'flies have landed on the patient, surgeon, and sterile field more than once.'
2024 ASMP officer stabbing with homemade weapon Case detail
James Leon Washington, 33, allegedly stabbed a correctional officer multiple times with a homemade weapon at Augusta State Medical Prison on a Tuesday, in an article published November 13, 2024.
AJC report on indictment in fatal cell fire Case detail
According to the AJC's report on the indictment, Roberson and Phillips became aware of a smoldering fire in an inmate's cell on Oct. 28, 2020, and instead of extinguishing the fire, trying to evacuate the inmate, or reporting the emergency over the radio, they allegedly left the inmate in his locked cell for several hours.
Montra Moss death at ASMP, November 6, 2017 Case detail
GDC announced that a Correctional Officer found inmate Montra Moss (GDC#920208) unresponsive at 12:30 a.m. on November 6, 2017 at Augusta State Medical Prison, and he was pronounced deceased at 1:08 a.m. by a physician at the facility; GDC was investigating the death.
No ASMP match in Amended FY2024 budget bill (HB 915) Data gap
A search of the Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 915 (Amended FY2024 appropriations) for 'Augusta State Medical' and 'ASMP' returned no match.
DeShawn Jones presented ASMP update to Board of Corrections Policy
DeShawn Jones was Warden of Augusta State Medical Prison as of a Georgia Board of Corrections meeting, where he presented an ASMP update to the Board.
Floor tiles at ASMP nursing unit tested positive for chrysotile asbestos Finding
Testing of floor tiles from the nursing unit at Augusta State Medical Prison came back positive for asbestos (chrysotile).
GDC health care costs FY2006: $179.3M, $8.2M above 2004 projection Statistic
Total GDC health care costs for fiscal year 2006 were $179.3 million, which was $8.2 million above the state auditor's 2004 projection.
$179.3M vs. 8.2 million dollars above 2004 projection
DOJ: March 2023 alleged rape at ASMP after cell lock popped Case detail
The DOJ findings report states that in March 2023, a man at ASMP allegedly popped the lock of his cell, exited, entered the cell of another man, and raped him.
Trauma care cost comparison Statistic
Wellpath's president for state and federal operations, Sam Britton, said trauma care in 2023 for Georgia's 38,997 prisoners covered by Wellpath cost $16.4 million, compared to trauma costs of $9.25 million for 111,403 inmates housed in prisons in eight other state prison systems served by Wellpath.
$16.4M vs. 9.3 million dollars for 111,403 inmates in eight other states
ASMP is GDC's main medical facility handling wide range of medical, mental health, and dental needs Finding
GDC Annual Fiscal Report 2016 states that while most facilities have an infirmary for minor medical needs, Augusta State Medical Prison is the Department's main medical facility, able to handle a wide range of medical, mental health, and dental services needs.
Warden Scott Wilkes reassigned after ASMP medical unit conditions exposed Case detail
WJBF reported that after conditions in the ASMP medical unit were brought to light, warden Scott Wilkes was reassigned.
Sentence for former ASMP officer Justin Washington Legal fact
Former ASMP officer Justin Washington (3) was sentenced to 5 years probation, a $2,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment on Count 1, with Count 3 dismissed.
Jenkins v. ASMP dismissed for failure to state claim and dishonest filing history Legal fact
Jenkins v. Augusta State Medical Prison, a pro se prisoner conditions case with multiple amended complaints, was dismissed without prejudice for failure to state a claim against defendants ASMP, A. Jackson, L. Jackson, and Philbin, and for the plaintiff's 'abuse of the judicial process by providing dishonest information about his filing history.'
Officer Jebkely contraband arrest at ASMP, July 20 Case detail
On July 20, at Augusta State Medical Prison, security staff observed Officer Jebkely on camera warming up food and handing it in a milk crate to an offender; she was arrested by the Columbia County Sheriff's Office with pending charges. The contraband consisted of 1 bowl of food, 1 zip lock bag of cherries, 1 fruit bowl, and 1 bottle of orange soda.
No ASMP match in Amended FY2026 budget bill (HB 973) Data gap
A search of the Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 973 (Amended FY2026 appropriations) for 'Augusta State Medical' and 'ASMP' returned no match.
ASMP maintenance craftsman arrested for providing contraband Case detail
On December 18, at Augusta State Medical Prison, Richmond County Sheriff Office arrested Maintenance Craftsman George Smith after an investigation revealed that he was providing contraband to inmates.
Inmate Wiley stabbed at least 65 times; inmates blocked medical care Case detail
Wiley was stabbed and cut at least 65 times, bled to death as inmates prevented staff from rendering medical care, according to testimony, and Ward and Dewberry were sentenced to life without parole.
Costliest 100 inmates: $7.4M (FY2004) to $13.8M (FY2006), projected $18.5M FY2007 Trend
GCHC financial reports showed GDC paid $7.4 million in medical claims for the 100 costliest inmates in fiscal year 2004, growing to over $13.8 million by fiscal year 2006, and projected to be approximately $18.5 million for fiscal year 2007.
ASMP construction and capacity Statistic
GDC's facility page for Augusta State Med. Prison states it was constructed in 1982 and opened in 1983, with capacity 1326 and security level Close.
1,326 beds
GDC expanded Infectious Disease Clinic at ASMP to include Hepatitis treatment Finding
GDC Annual Fiscal Report 2014 states that GDC expanded the existing Infectious Disease Clinic at Augusta State Medical Prison to include Hepatitis treatment.
Inmate Jerry Merritt stabbed to death at ASMP; John Jaquis Trimier charged Case detail
Columbia County deputies charged John Jaquis Trimier with murder in the stabbing death of Augusta State Medical Prison inmate Jerry Merritt, which occurred between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Jan. 20, with the arrest warrant stating Trimier assaulted Merritt with a sharpened object causing a stab wound to the left side of Merritt's chest and shoulder.
ASMP deteriorated under warden Stan Shepard before 2016 Finding
A doctor who worked at ASMP said the facility deteriorated during the roughly three-year period when Stan Shepard was warden there before Scott Wilkes took over in 2016.
Early termination of Justin Washington's probation Legal fact
Justin Washington's probation was terminated early by an order signed by Chief Judge J. Randal Hall on 03/02/2021.
Jenkins dismissal adopted by Chief Judge Hall Legal fact
In Jenkins v. Augusta State Medical Prison, the court adopted a Report and Recommendation dismissing the plaintiff's complaint without prejudice. Signed by Chief Judge J. Randal Hall on 1/16/24.
No ASMP match in FY2025 budget bill (HB 916) Data gap
A search of HB 916 (FY2025 appropriations) for 'Augusta State Medical' and 'ASMP' returned no match.
Source
Loyal v. GDC wrongful-death suit dismissed with prejudice Legal fact
The civil rights wrongful-death lawsuit Loyal v. Georgia Department of Corrections, naming Edward Philbin, Marcus Phillips and Robert Roberson among defendants, was dismissed with prejudice by a court order signed 12/12/23, following a stipulation of dismissal, with each party to bear its own costs and fees.
ASMP conditions: garbage, mold, and broken dialysis chairs Finding
At Augusta State Medical Prison, bags of garbage piled up outside the operating room attracting flies and mosquitoes, mold contaminated the ceiling in the dental unit and a wall in a second-floor corridor, and in the dialysis center water dripped under the sink into containers put there to catch it while the chairs were too battered to be properly disinfected.
Hospital daily average cost per admitted inmate $3,681, over $1M annually Statistic
At the estimated daily average cost of $3,681 that GDC pays hospitals for an admitted inmate, hospitalization totals over $1 million annually.
$3,681
April 2025 Board minutes: ASMP medical missions and facility data discussed Policy
At a Board of Corrections meeting, GDC's Assistant Commissioner of the Health Services Division discussed ASMP's facility data including Infirmary Beds, CSU/ACU Beds, Dialysis Chairs, and ALU Beds, mental health population, dialysis patients, diabetics patients, cancer patients, medical staffing, wound care, pharmacy, ASMP's Dental Clinic, Mental Health Staffing, and the Specialized Mental Health Treatment Units (SMHTUs).
ASMP mission statement Policy
GDC's facility page for Augusta State Med. Prison gives its mission as ensuring public safety and effectively housing offenders while operating a safe and secure facility, providing centralized acute, specialized medical and Level IV Mental Health services for male and female offenders primarily as transient, housing severe medical cases, and serving as a Sex Offender release site and host facility for the Augusta Transitional Center.
GDC pharmacy distribution model unchanged for 27 years, using 9 regional pharmacies serving 60 locations Finding
At a June 2021 Board of Corrections meeting, GDC's Assistant Commissioner for Office of Health Services stated the agency had Augusta University-Georgia Correctional Healthcare for 27 years, and the pharmacy distribution model remained largely unchanged, using 9 Regional Pharmacies serving 60 locations, 34 state prisons, 14 regional infirmaries, and Augusta State Medical Prison.
Merritt's body transported to GBI crime lab Case detail
Merritt's body was transported to the GBI crime lab to determine the official cause of death.
Stan Shepard promoted to Regional Director of Southeast Region Case detail
Stan Shepard has since been promoted again to Regional Director of the Southeast Region, effective January 1.
25-year sentence for ASMP guard assault Legal fact
James Leon Washington was sentenced to 25 years after attacking a guard at Augusta State Medical Prison, and will serve the time in prison without the possibility of parole.
Massey v. ASMP dismissed as sanction for abuse of judicial process Legal fact
Massey v. Augusta State Medical Prison, a prisoner conditions case under 42 U.S.C. 1983, was dismissed without prejudice as a sanction for the plaintiff's abuse of the judicial process, without reaching the merits.
Jerry W. Merritt stabbed to death at ASMP, January 20, 2026 Case detail
Jerry W. Merritt, 59, suffered stab wounds to his torso and was pronounced dead at Wellstar MCG Health in Augusta; Merritt was serving a life sentence for a 2014 murder in Columbus, Ga. The Augusta Press reported the stabbing occurred on Jan. 20 in an incident reportedly triggered by a dispute over a commissary debt, a killing that had gone unannounced by Georgia prison officials.
No ASMP match in FY2025 amended capital projects bill (HB 67) Data gap
A search of HB 67 (FY2025A) Capital Projects and Bonds for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta State Medical' and 'ASMP' returned no match.
James Hood died at ASMP in 2017 after deteriorating medical condition Case detail
Vicky Huff's son James Hood died at Augusta State Medical Prison in 2017; he had entered the system with sickle cell disease and lost an eye after an attack by other inmates, contracted hepatitis C, and experienced kidney failure.
OHS did not perform executive mortality reviews and could not locate many deceased inmates' files Data gap
A state auditor examination found that GDC's Office of Health Services does not perform executive mortality reviews of inmate deaths and is unable to locate medical files for many deceased inmates.
April 2025 Board minutes: Warden DeShawn Jones presented ASMP specialty services Policy
Georgia Board of Corrections minutes record that at a meeting held at Augusta, Georgia, Warden DeShawn Jones presented an ASMP Update covering the facility's specialty services including a 24 hr. Infirmary, Crisis Stabilization Unit, Acute Care Unit, Mental Health Clinic (Centurion), Medical Clinic (Centurion), Wound Care Clinic, Physical Therapy Clinic, Dental Clinic, Mobile CT Unit, Mobile MRI Unit, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Dialysis Unit, Telemedicine Remote Care, and Ambulatory Surgical Center.
ASMP housing configuration Policy
GDC's facility page describes ASMP's housing as four living units divided into two separate units, one open dorm of 519 beds with 192 beds designated for assisted living, and seven nursing units with a security control room, single patient rooms, a seven-bed Crisis Stabilization Unit, a central dining hall and an Acute Care Unit.
GDC added 11 infirmary beds and four crisis stabilization beds at ASMP Statistic
GDC's FY2023 Annual Report states GDC added 11 additional Infirmary Beds and four Crisis Stabilization Beds at Augusta State Medical Prison for offenders who are sick or have a mental health emergency.
11 infirmary beds
Source
Merritt's death investigated by GDC office of professional standards Policy
Merritt's death is investigated by GDC's office of professional standards, as standard procedure.
GDC maintains ASMP; Georgia Correctional Healthcare provides care Policy
The Georgia Department of Corrections maintains Augusta State Medical Prison, while Georgia Correctional Healthcare, a branch of Augusta University, is responsible for providing healthcare there.
Guilty pleas in ASMP guard assault case Legal fact
James Leon Washington entered guilty pleas to charges of obstructing an officer, aggravated battery, and aggravated assault.
Massey dismissal order signed by Chief Judge Hall Legal fact
In Massey v. Augusta State Medical Prison, the court dismissed the case without prejudice as a sanction for the plaintiff's abuse of the judicial process. Signed by Chief Judge J. Randal Hall on 03/15/2023.
Merritt death first recorded Columbia County homicide of 2026 Finding
Columbia County Coroner Terry Norman identified the ASMP death of Jerry Merritt as the first recorded homicide in Columbia County in 2026, and state prison officials declined to provide information on the killing without a formal Freedom of Information Act request, which had been filed.
No ASMP match in 2026A bond project list Data gap
A search of Exhibit 1 - Projects Funded by the 2026A Bonds for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta State Medical', 'ASMP' and 'Augusta SMP' returned no match.
Inmate Ali Tanner stabbed to death at ASMP; Demarvin Bennett named suspect Case detail
An inmate died after a stabbing at Augusta State Medical Prison on a Friday evening; GDC identified the victim as Ali Tanner, who had been sentenced to life without parole in 2015 in Bibb County for felony murder, and Demarvin Bennett was named as a suspect in the stabbing death.
PREA Cycle 3 ASMP audit final report 04/20/2020 by Mable P. Wheeler Case detail
A PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison, with a final report date of 04/20/2020, was conducted by auditor Mable P. Wheeler.
September 2023 Board minutes: ASMP infirmary bed expansion and ribbon cutting Policy
At a Board of Corrections meeting, GDC's Assistant Commissioner for Office of Health Services discussed infirmary care, infirmary beds, medical observation, and an Augusta State Medical Prison infirmary bed expansion, including photos from an ASMP Infirmary Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.
ASMP infirmary beds Statistic
GDC's facility page lists ASMP's 95 beds as including two 20-bed Acute Care Infirmaries and a 20-bed Long Term Care Infirmary.
95 beds
GDC added four crisis stabilization beds at ASMP Statistic
GDC's FY2023 Annual Report states GDC added four Crisis Stabilization Beds at Augusta State Medical Prison for offenders who have a mental health emergency.
4 crisis stabilization beds
Source
ASMP performs over 1,000 surgeries annually; operates 26 specialty clinics Statistic
GDC reported that more than 1,000 surgical procedures are performed at Augusta State Medical Prison each year, the facility operates 26 specialty consult clinics, serves more than 60 dialysis patients, and is GDC's 340-B program hub site, with a modular surgical unit supplementing ASMP with approximately 1,000 additional procedures each year.
1,000 surgical procedures per year vs. 26 specialty consult clinics
Jacobi Chomicki died at ASMP May 22, cause undetermined Case detail
GDC officials said 23-year-old inmate Jacobi Chomicki died at Augusta State Medical Prison on May 22, with cause of death undetermined, and his body was turned over to the Richmond County Coroner's Office for transport to the GBI crime lab.
Dr. Young's 'awakening' after 2016 transport guard killings Case detail
Two GDOC transport guards were shot and killed in June 2016 by a pair of escaping prisoners, which Dr. Young cited as his 'awakening' to document ASMP security problems.
Jackson v. Warden of ASMP was untimely habeas petition Legal fact
Jackson v. Warden of Augusta State Medical Prison was a 28 U.S.C. 2254 habeas corpus petition, dismissed as untimely filed rather than a civil-rights conditions, force, medical-care or death case.
Thomas Giles death by smoke inhalation, 2020; $5M settlement Case detail
The Augusta Press reported that multiple homicides at ASMP were recorded in official Georgia Department of Corrections and death certificate data, including Thomas Giles, who died of smoke inhalation after a fire was left unattended in his cell in 2020, and that the state later agreed to a $5 million settlement over his death.
No ASMP match in 2020AB bond project list Data gap
A search of General Obligation Bond Authorizations (2020AB project list) for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta State Medical', 'ASMP' and 'Augusta SMP' returned no match.
Brendon Lamar Moore's underlying sentence detailed in Hayes case Case detail
GDC stated that two inmates, Brendon Lamar Moore (serving a Life sentence for Rape, Hijacking, Aggravated Sodomy, 2 counts of Armed Robbery, 3 counts of Kidnapping, and 3 counts of Terroristic Threats and Acts) and Andy Ulysse, were charged with Felony Murder and Aggravated Assault in the investigation into Roderick Hayes's death.
ASMP 2020 PREA audit: 2 standards exceeded (115:11, 115:87), 43 met, 0 not met Finding
A PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison found 2 standards exceeded, 43 standards met, and 0 standards not met, with the standards exceeded being 115:11 and 115:87.
November 2021 Board minutes: Healthcare Transition Update (Correct Rx, Wellpath Phase 1, Mental Health Expansion) Policy
At a Board of Corrections meeting, GDC's Assistant Commissioner for Office of Health Services gave a Healthcare Transition Update discussing Pharmacy-Correct Rx, 'Wellpath - Transition Phase 1,' and Mental Health Expansion.
Wellpath arrival date Finding
Wellpath's arrival as GDC's healthcare provider was in July 2022 according to a formerly-incarcerated/currently-incarcerated writer's account.
ASMP dialysis expansion doubled bed capacity from 11 to 22 Statistic
GDC's FY2023 Annual Report states the Dialysis Expansion at Augusta State Medical Prison doubled bed capacity from 11 to 22 to meet the needs of approximately 55 offenders who receive treatment.
22 dialysis beds vs. 11 previous dialysis bed capacity
Source
Lawsuit filed in death of Thomas Henry Giles at ASMP Legal fact
Vanessa Loyal, serving as administrator of the estate of Thomas Henry Giles, filed a civil rights lawsuit in federal court for the Southern District of Georgia on September 22, 2022, accusing the Georgia Department of Corrections and its employees of deliberate indifference to Giles's serious needs by failing to protect him.
John Trimier charged in stabbing death of Jerry Merritt at ASMP Case detail
John Trimier was charged in connection with the killing of Jerry Merritt at Augusta State Medical Prison, which occurred on the Columbia County side of the prison.
Trash and insects in ASMP operating room Finding
ASMP's medical director Dr. Mary Sherryl Alston wrote that trash drew insects 'of all varieties' into the operating room, and that during procedures mosquitoes had to be swatted away, with the smell of garbage noticeable.
Drone smuggling attempt: two arrested near ASMP border Case detail
Officers encountered Gerald Jiminez, 28, and Joslynn Apaisa, 26, both of Grovetown, walking near the dead-end of Railroad Avenue at its border of Augusta State Medical Prison property.
Terry Lee Bennett II death at ASMP, January 2021 Case detail
The Augusta Press listed Terry Lee Bennett II, dated January 2021, as an ASMP death by blunt force trauma in its list of confirmed or officially reported killings at ASMP.
No ASMP match in 2021AB bond project list Data gap
A search of the 2021AB General Obligation Bonds project list for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta State Medical', 'ASMP' and 'Augusta SMP' returned no match.
Roberson also charged with falsifying logbook in fatal cell fire case Case detail
The AJC reported that a federal grand jury indicted two former Augusta State Medical Prison correctional officers, Robert Roberson and Marcus Phillips, for their roles in the death of an inmate who set a fire in his cell, charged with violating the constitutional rights of an inmate by showing deliberate indifference to a substantial risk of harm; Roberson was also charged with falsifying a logbook to cover up his misconduct.
Hardy v. GDC: medical care lawsuit removed from Richmond County Superior Court Legal fact
George W. Hardy sued the Georgia Department of Corrections, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, and named medical and corrections staff (including Dr. Kimberly Fountain, nurses Giddens, Wells, West, and Warden Shepard/McGrew) over his medical care, in a case removed from Richmond County Superior Court (case number 2017RCCV00575).
ASMP 2020 PREA audit: 424 staff with inmate contact Statistic
At the time of a PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison, it reported 424 staff currently employed at the facility who may have contact with inmates.
424 staff
November 2021 Board minutes: Wellpath Phase 1 timeline details Policy
In a Healthcare Transition Update to the Board of Corrections, GDC's Assistant Commissioner for Health Services discussed the Wellpath Healthcare Provider timeline for Phase 1, Assumption of Operations, Vendor Management Start Trainees, Recruitment and Retention, Medical Protocols, and Go Live Phase II.
Wellpath leaves 50,000+ patients Statistic
Three years into its nine-year contract, Wellpath left behind its more than 50,000 patients incarcerated by GDC, effective July 1.
50,000 patients
Approximately 55 offenders receive dialysis treatment at ASMP Statistic
GDC's FY2023 Annual Report states the Dialysis Expansion at Augusta State Medical Prison doubled bed capacity from 11 to 22 to meet the needs of approximately 55 offenders who receive treatment.
55 offenders
Source
GDC settles Giles estate for $5 million Legal fact
The Georgia Department of Corrections agreed to pay $5 million to the estate of Thomas Henry Giles, a mentally ill prisoner who died after guards left him for hours locked inside a cell on fire at Augusta State Medical Prison.
GDC did not publicly announce Merritt killing for nearly a month Finding
Almost a month after Merritt's killing, it had still not been publicly announced by state prison officials, and the Georgia Department of Corrections declined to release details without a formal open records request, which had been filed.
Asbestos closure of ASMP operating room, March 2018 Case detail
A GCH contractor discovered asbestos floor tiles at ASMP, forcing the operating room to close for two months in March 2018, with medical procedures moved to public hospitals, causing some delays in prisoner treatment.
Backpack held drone and over a pound each of marijuana and meth Case detail
Jiminez's backpack was found to contain a remote-control drone and two vacuum-sealed packages; one package contained over a pound of marijuana and one contained over a pound of methamphetamine, and the drone was outfitted with a hook-and-release mechanism with additional drone parts in a separate fanny pack.
Ali Lamont Tanner death at ASMP, July 2021 Case detail
The Augusta Press listed Ali Lamont Tanner, dated July 2021, as an ASMP death by stabbing in its list of confirmed or officially reported killings at ASMP.
No ASMP match in 2022AB bond project list Data gap
A search of Project Funding (Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission) 2022AB General Obligation Bonds project list for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta State Medical', 'ASMP', 'Augusta SMP' and 'Augusta Medical' returned no match.
Fatal cell fire alleged to have occurred Oct. 28, 2020 Case detail
The federal indictment against former Augusta State Medical Prison officers Robert Roberson and Marcus Phillips alleged that on Oct. 28, 2020 they became aware of a smoldering fire in an inmate's cell and were found not guilty.
Hardy v. GDC settled September 24, 2021 Legal fact
Hardy v. Georgia Department of Corrections was resolved by settlement after the remaining defendants filed a notice of settlement, entered on September 24, 2021.
ASMP constructed 1982; 2020 audit population 1212 vs operating capacity 1326 Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison states the facility was constructed in 1982, and that the population on the first day of the onsite audit was 1212 inmates with an operating capacity of 1326.
1,212 inmates vs. 1,326 operating capacity
December 2021 Board minutes: ASMP Dialysis Expansion Project Policy
At a Board of Corrections meeting, Assistant Commissioner Randy Sauls began his Office of Health Services presentation by discussing the Dialysis Expansion Project at ASMP, including the population served, construction and floor plans, and ASMP's Dialysis Clinic.
ASMP Justice Center and Paint Shed to be demolished for new construction Case detail
At a May 2022 Board of Corrections meeting, General Counsel Jennifer Ammons presented the Augusta State Medical Prison Demolition of 2 Buildings, stating that the Justice Center and Paint Shed must be demolished to make way for new construction.
Wellpath lawsuit alleges GDC awarded $2.4 billion contract without competitive process Legal fact
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that Wellpath, the Nashville-based company that has provided health care for the Georgia Department of Corrections since 2021, filed a lawsuit alleging GDC awarded a $2.4 billion health care contract to Virginia-based Centurion Health without the competitive process required under state law, and that GDC decided in April to award the new contract.
Nurse Wendy Evans arrested with 1,000 grams of tobacco at ASMP Case detail
On August 3, Nurse Wendy Evans was arrested by Richmond County Sheriff's Office for attempting to enter Augusta State Medical Prison with 1,000 grams of tobacco wrapped in plastic wrap.
2017 federal civil rights lawsuit on abuse of mentally ill prisoners Legal fact
A federal civil rights lawsuit filed in August 2017 claimed that prisoners at ASMP 'are often selected for abuse because they suffer from mental illness and have difficulty reporting assaults or being taken seriously when they do.'
Third suspect Isreal Walters detained as possible lookout Case detail
A third man, 28-year-old Isreal Walters of Augusta, arrived in a vehicle during the field interview and was detained while the investigation continued, with further investigation revealing he may have been acting as a lookout.
Raphael Zachery Milligan death at ASMP, July 2022 Case detail
The Augusta Press listed Raphael Zachery Milligan, dated July 2022, as an ASMP death by beating and strangulation in its list of confirmed or officially reported killings at ASMP.
No ASMP match in 2023A/2023B bond project list Data gap
A search of State of Georgia General Obligation Bonds, 2023A and 2023B project list for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta State Medical', 'ASMP' and 'Augusta SMP' returned no match.
Roberson and Phillips acquitted in ASMP inmate death case Legal fact
Two former guards at Augusta State Medical Prison, Robert Roberson and Marcus Phillips, were found not guilty in connection with the death of an inmate.
Hardy v. GDC dismissed with prejudice October 27, 2021 Legal fact
In Hardy v. Georgia Department of Corrections, the case was dismissed with prejudice, with each party to bear its own costs and fees except as otherwise agreed by the parties.
ASMP: 26 buildings and hospital providing surgery, dialysis, palliative care via GDOC and Augusta University Medical Center Finding
GDC's PREA audit describes Augusta State Medical Prison as a large complex comprised of 26 buildings and a medical hospital that provides specialty and surgical procedures, tertiary inpatient care, dialysis, pain management, palliative care, specialty evaluations and ancillary services through GDOC staff and Augusta University Medical Center.
February 2018 Board minutes: GDOT easement at ASMP for Gordon Highway widening Legal fact
At a Board of Corrections meeting, General Counsel Jennifer Ammons presented a Revocable License Agreement/Easement with the Georgia Department of Transportation at Augusta State Medical Prison, for the Georgia Department of Transportation to widen the road along Gordon Highway/Highway 78/Highway 278/State Route.
ASMP Telemedicine and mental health expansion discussed at January 2020 Board meeting Finding
Georgia Board of Corrections Assistant Commissioner Randy Sauls discussed Augusta State Medical Prison Telemedicine, the Expansion of Mental Health Services, Statewide Mental Health Training, Installation of Dental Electronic Health Records, and prioritization of maintenance and replacement of equipment.
DOJ: Homicide at ASMP of man interviewed at Macon State Prison Case detail
DOJ reported that a man it had interviewed at Macon State Prison in early 2023 reportedly died by homicide at Augusta State Medical Prison in late May 2024 after being transferred there, having been attacked on multiple occasions in the years prior to his death, and that two other incarcerated people and a GDC correctional officer have been criminally charged.
Visitor Catherine Towry arrested with cigarettes at ASMP Case detail
On August 5, visitor Catherine Towry was arrested by the Richmond County Sheriff's Office at Augusta State Medical Prison after she failed to clear the metal detector for visitation and confessed to having a pack of Newport cigarettes.
Staffing shortage jeopardized medical services at ASMP Finding
A staffing shortage at Augusta State Medical Prison 'jeopardized the delivery of medical services for thousands of inmates,' less than two years after officials had vowed to improve conditions.
Three charged with meth trafficking and marijuana distribution Legal fact
All three, Jiminez, Apaisa, and Walters, were charged with trafficking of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and booked into the Columbia County Detention Center.
Amos Bennett Huff Jr. death at ASMP, March 2023 Case detail
The Augusta Press listed Amos Bennett Huff Jr., dated March 2023, as an ASMP death by strangulation in its list of confirmed or officially reported killings at ASMP.
No ASMP match in Marshall Project Georgia prison food investigation Data gap
A search of The Marshall Project article 'How Poor Food in Georgia Prisons Leaves People Hungry and Sick' for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta' and 'ASMP' returned no match.
Federal grand jury returned two-count indictment Aug. 5, 2025 Legal fact
On Aug. 5, 2025, a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Georgia returned a two-count indictment charging former Augusta State Medical Prison Correctional Officers Robert Roberson and Marcus Phillips with violating the constitutional rights of an inmate by showing deliberate indifference to a substantial risk of harm to an inmate, resulting in his death.
PREA audit of ASMP conducted by Bobbi Pohlman-Rodgers, facility visit 07/20/2015 Methodology note
A PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison was conducted by auditor Bobbi Pohlman-Rodgers, with a facility visit date of 07/20/2015.
ASMP located in Richmond County (Grovetown address) Finding
Augusta State Medical Prison is located in Richmond County, Georgia (the GDC facility address is in Grovetown).
GDC SOP 507.04.14: ASMP provides inpatient services to offenders appropriate for nursing units Policy
GDC SOP 507.04.14 states that Augusta State Medical Prison will provide inpatient services to offenders appropriate for admission to nursing units, with utilization managed by the ASMP and Utilization Management Medical Directors in the most clinically appropriate and cost-effective manner.
DOJ: Hole found in wall between cells at ASMP in May 2022 Case detail
DOJ reported that in May 2022, a correctional officer at Augusta State Medical Prison found a large hole in the wall between two cells.
Officer Zaquana Hampton arrested with 333.5 grams of marijuana at ASMP Case detail
On June 10, the Portal Sergeant detected marijuana on Officer Zaquana Hampton upon entering Augusta State Medical Prison, and a search found 333.5 grams of marijuana wrapped in duct tape, after which Hampton was placed under arrest by Richmond County Sheriff's Office.
2017 AJC investigation and state response at ASMP Case detail
An Atlanta Journal-Constitution investigation in 2017 exposed unsafe and unsanitary conditions at Augusta State Medical Prison, including garbage piled up outside the operating room, after which the state cleaned up the building and hired a new warden and hospital administrator.
Drone smuggling scheme summary Case detail
Three people were arrested in connection with a scheme to smuggle marijuana and meth into Augusta State Medical Prison by drone; officers found a backpack containing a remote-control drone and two vacuum-sealed packages, one containing over a pound of marijuana and one containing over a pound of methamphetamine, and all three were charged with trafficking of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.
11 inmate homicides at ASMP since 2020 Statistic
The Augusta Press stated that overall the data it reviewed show 11 inmate homicides at ASMP since 2020.
11 homicides
No ASMP match in Georgia Recorder Kemp prison plan coverage Data gap
A search of the Georgia Recorder article 'Kemp unveils plan to spend millions intended to restore order in Georgia prisons' for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'Augusta' and 'ASMP' returned no match.
DOJ and FBI officials announced ASMP officer indictment Case detail
The Aug. 5 federal indictment of former Augusta State Medical Prison officers Roberson and Phillips was announced by Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of DOJ's Civil Rights Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Tara M. Lyons for the Southern District of Georgia, and FBI Augusta Field Office Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown.
ASMP PREA audit: 486 staff, design capacity 1,346, population 1,178 Statistic
At the time of a PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison, it reported 486 staff assigned to the facility in the last 12 months, a designed facility capacity of 1346, and a current population of 1178.
1,178 inmates vs. 1,346 design capacity
ASMP 2020 staffing: 424 allotted, 422 staffed, 10 non-security and 32 security vacancies Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison stated the facility has 424 allotted positions, and currently had 422 positions staffed with 10 vacancies in non-security and 32 security positions.
422 positions staffed vs. 424 allotted positions
DOJ reviewed ASMP as part of Georgia prisons investigation Methodology note
The DOJ's findings report on Georgia prisons listed Augusta State Medical Prison among the facilities named in a footnote identifying facilities it reviewed.
GDC statewide lockdown after gang-related fights injured inmates Case detail
All Georgia Department of Corrections prisons were placed under lockdown after a string of 'gang-related' altercations across the state left multiple inmates injured, with fights at Smith, Wilcox, Hays, and Valdosta State Prisons sending a total of five inmates to the hospital and six Dooly State Prison inmates also taken to local hospitals.
Murder charge in ASMP death of Jerry Merritt Case detail
WRDW/WAGT reported that Columbia County deputies said John Jaquis Trimier is charged with murder in the death of inmate Jerry Merritt at Augusta State Medical Prison.
Trimier indicted on murder and penal-institution violence charges Legal fact
John Jaquis Trimier was indicted on malice murder, felony murder, unlawful acts of violence in a penal institution, and possession of a knife during commission of a felony, case number 2026CR0478, and was listed on a Columbia County Superior Court jury trial calendar.
Source
Former ASMP officers federally indicted in 2025 for ignoring fatal fire Case detail
The Augusta Press reported that former ASMP correctional officers were federally indicted in 2025 for ignoring a fire that led to an inmate's death.
No ASMP match in Stateline prison lockdown coverage Data gap
A search of the Stateline article 'State prisons turn to extended lockdowns amid staffing shortages, overcrowding' for 'Augusta State Medical Prison', 'ASMP' and 'Medical Prison' returned no match.
ASMP PREA audit: 4 standards exceeded, 37 met, 0 not met Statistic
A PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison found 4 standards exceeded, 37 standards met, and 0 standards not met.
37 standards met vs. standards not met
ASMP nursing: 220 positions, 60 vacancies, 50 contract positions Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison stated the facility has 220 nursing positions with 60 vacancies, with 50 of the positions being contract positions.
60 nursing vacancies vs. 220 nursing positions
ASMP reopening and surgical suite plans Policy
At a Board of Corrections meeting, Assistant Commissioner Randy Sauls discussed the facility status prior to reopening, the Ambulatory Surgical Treatment Centers (ASTC), the rollout plan, and photos of ASMP Open House, ASMP Operating Suites, and ASMP Endoscopy Suite.
DOJ: Transgender woman sexually assaulted at ASMP in March 2023 Case detail
DOJ reported that a transgender woman at ASMP reported that, one night in March 2023 when there was only one officer, she was held at knifepoint and sexually assaulted after count.
ASMP Capital Outlay projects listed in Dec 2020 Board minutes Policy
GDC's Board of Corrections minutes list Capital Outlay Projects at Augusta State Medical Prison including kitchen floor replacement, replacement of 2 chillers and 7 air handlers, replacement of exterior windows, and Dialysis unit relocation/expansion.
Time of Jerry Merritt's death Case detail
Merritt died at 3 p.m., according to the Columbia County Coroner's Office.
WRDW list of prior ASMP deaths Case detail
Per WRDW/WAGT's list of prior Augusta State Medical Prison deaths: in May 2024 inmate Roderick Hayes, 29, serving a 10-year sentence, was killed during an altercation at the prison; on March 30, 2023 inmate Amos Huff died in an apparent homicide at the prison; on July 2, 2021 inmate Ali Tanner was killed at the prison while serving a life sentence without parole for murder; and on Aug. 28, 2011 Antonio Wiley was stabbed to death by inmates at the prison.
Eddie Gosier strangled in May 2020 per Augusta Press Case detail
The Augusta Press reported that official Georgia Department of Corrections and death certificate data show multiple homicides at Augusta State Medical Prison including Eddie Gosier, strangled in May 2020.
No ASMP match in archived GDC COVID-19 case dashboard Data gap
A search of an archived Georgia Department of Corrections COVID-19 case dashboard (web.archive.org CDX query for dcor.state.ga.us) for 'confirmed-cases', 'covid-19-cases', 'case-count', 'dashboard' and 'by-facility' returned no match.
Source
ASMP PREA audit: Warden Stan Shepard listed as CEO; 486 staff Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison states a designed facility capacity of 1346 and lists Warden Stan Shepard as the facility's Chief Executive Officer, with 486 staff assigned to the facility in the last 12 months.
486 staff
ASMP security staffing per June 17, 2019 Stratification Plan: 320 COs, 12 lieutenants, 20 sergeants Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison listed the facility's security staffing, per the Augusta State Medical Prison Stratification Plan dated June 17, 2019, as 1 Warden, 2 Deputy Wardens of Security, 7 Unit Managers, 12 Lieutenants, 20 Sergeants, 1 Secretary, 320 Correctional Officers, and 2 Public Safety Trainers.
320 correctional officers
GDC contracts with Centurion for healthcare Policy
GDC's Health Services page states that the Department contracts with Centurion to provide comprehensive medical, mental and dental services statewide under a managed care model.
Source
DOJ: Man raped in cell at ASMP in March 2023 Case detail
DOJ reported that in March 2023, a man at ASMP allegedly popped the lock of his cell, exited, entered the cell of another man, and raped him.
Parole Board leadership visited ASMP and Augusta Transitional Center Case detail
Georgia Parole Board Member Robert Markley, Executive Director Chris Barnett, and operational leadership visited Augusta State Medical Prison and the Augusta Transitional Center as part of parole leadership's engagement with parole-eligible offenders housed with GDC.
2021 stabbing death of Ali Tanner at ASMP Case detail
The Augusta Press reported Ali Tanner was murdered inside Augusta State Medical Prison, shanked in the side of the neck while he walked outside, dated July 04, 2021.
Roderick Hayes killed in May 2024 altercation Case detail
Augusta State Medical Prison inmate Roderick Hayes, 29, serving a 10-year sentence for cruelty to children out of Fulton County, died in May 2024 during an altercation at the prison.
ASMP PREA pre-audit meeting attendees include Warden Shepard and PREA Manager Bussey Methodology note
GDC's PREA audit records that an on-site audit pre-audit meeting at Augusta State Medical Prison included Warden Stan Shepard and PREA Manager/Deputy Warden Terri Bussey.
ASMP 2020 PREA audit: designed capacity 1326, current population 1148 Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison reported the designed facility capacity as 1326 and the current population of the facility as 1148.
1,148 inmates vs. 1,326 designed facility capacity
ASMP is only Level V dental facility Policy
GDC's Health Services page states that Augusta State Medical Prison is the only Level V dental facility, with a mission to provide specialized dental/oral maxillofacial surgery services for GDC and routine care to the resident population.
Source
DOJ: Sexual assault at ASMP mishandled by SART and OPS Case detail
DOJ reported that in March 2023, at ASMP, a man alleged that another incarcerated person entered his cell, threatened him with a knife, and forcibly penetrated the victim's mouth over the course of two hours, and that despite the narrative stating the allegations were substantiated, SART investigators checked a box stating the allegations were unsubstantiated, so the district attorney declined to prosecute and OPS closed its investigation administratively.
Coroner account of Ali Tanner's death Case detail
Columbia County Coroner Vernon Collins said Tanner was walking in a common area on Friday when he was suddenly stabbed; the 45-year-old inmate ran to the prison infirmary but collapsed there due to a lack of blood, and prison officials tried CPR.
Former guard Dequarius Blount pleaded guilty to smuggling marijuana Case detail
Dequarius Blount, 23, a former guard at the Augusta State Medical Prison, pleaded guilty on October 16, 2017 to smuggling marijuana into the facility for resale to prisoners, after Assistant District Attorney Hank Syms said Blount was found with 27.9 grams of marijuana when he triggered the metal detector several times reporting to work.
Source
ASMP located in Grovetown, ~135 miles from Atlanta; capacity 1,346 male inmates Statistic
GDC's PREA audit states Augusta State Medical Prison has a total capacity of 1346 inmates and houses male inmates, located approximately 135 miles from Atlanta, Georgia.
1,346 inmates
ASMP PREA refresher video ordered for inmates with 'special needs' Finding
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison noted an auditor concern that, based on 'special needs' of a large percentage of inmates, a recommendation was made for a showing of a PREA video as a refresher for all inmates, and administration accepted the recommendation and provided documentation of a PREA refresher for all inmates prior to submission of the final report.
Expanded dialysis center opens Statistic
A GDC press release states that an expanded 22-bed Dialysis Center officially opened at Augusta State Medical Prison, increasing current bed capacity for dialysis services by 11 beds, providing space for 60 patients to receive services daily.
22 beds vs. 11 increase in beds
Officer Zaquana Hampton arrested for contraband at ASMP Case detail
On June 10, the Portal Sergeant detected a strong odor of marijuana on Officer Zaquana Hampton upon entering Augusta State Medical Prison; a search found 333.5 grams of marijuana in two bundles wrapped in duct tape, and Officer Hampton was placed under arrest and charged with Introduction of contraband beyond the guard line.
No arrest information released in Tanner killing; sheriff's help refused Finding
The Augusta Press reported that Corrections officials had released no information on an arrest in the Tanner killing and refused help by the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, while authorities said another inmate was taken away in connection with the death.
Smith v. ASMP summary judgment for defendants Legal fact
In Smith v. Augusta State Medical Prison, the court granted defendants' motion for summary judgment and entered final judgment in favor of the defendants, closing the case. Signed by Judge J. Randal Hall on 12/9/16.
GDC contracted with Georgia Regents University for inmate healthcare since 1997 Policy
GDC began contracting with Georgia Regents University (then known as Medical College of Georgia) in 1997 to provide physical healthcare services to inmates in state corrections facilities.
ASMP risk-screening interview privacy concern remediated before final report Finding
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison noted an auditor concern that, based on the auditor's observation of the risk screening process while onsite, a recommendation was made for staff to revisit the location of counselor's interview with inmates, as it appeared a more private setting was needed, and this issue was addressed by administration with the auditor receiving documentation of changes in risk screening interview location prior to submission of the final report.
Dialysis treatment volume and schedule Statistic
GDC said approximately 55 offenders receive dialysis treatment each day at the Augusta State Medical Prison Dialysis Center, with an average of three hours to complete the process per individual, and the Center operates six days per week with two shifts.
55 patients per day
Cadet Lucretia Nicole Davis incident at ASMP Case detail
On November 21, 2013, at Augusta State Medical Prison, an Officer was working with Cadet Lucretia Nicole Davis and Cadet McCray in the control room when the officer noticed an item on the floor in the restroom, which Cadet Davis picked up and threw in the trash.
Bradley v. ASMP dismissed as sanction Legal fact
In Bradley v. Augusta State Medical Prison, the case was dismissed without prejudice as a sanction for the plaintiff's abuse of the judicial process. Signed by Chief Judge J. Randal Hall on 3/19/2018.
GRU created Georgia Correctional HealthCare unit; GDC renewed contract annually Policy
Georgia Regents University created the Georgia Correctional HealthCare (GCHC) unit to operate GDC's inmate health contract, and GDC renewed the contract with GRU each year.
ASMP medical care accredited by Medical Association of Georgia (NCCHC-equivalent standards) Policy
GDC's PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison stated that the medical care at this facility is accredited by the Medical Association of Georgia meeting the Medical Association of Georgia's Standards which are essentially the standards of the National Commission on Correctional Health Care.
Loyal v. GDC (Thomas Giles estate, ASMP fire/smoke death) dismissed with prejudice Dec 2023 Legal fact
The Loyal v. Georgia Department of Corrections case (Thomas Giles estate, ASMP fire/smoke-inhalation death) was dismissed with prejudice by a December 2023 order, following a stipulation of dismissal.
PREA Cycle 4 ASMP audit final report 12/12/2022 by Mable P. Wheeler Case detail
A PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison had a final report submission date of 12/12/2022 and was conducted by auditor Mable P. Wheeler.
ASMP 2022 PREA audit: 320 staff, designed capacity 1201, population 1140 Statistic
At the time of a PREA audit of Augusta State Medical Prison, it reported 320 staff currently employed at the facility who may have contact with inmates, a designed facility capacity of 1201, and a current population of 1140.
1,140 inmates vs. 1,201 designed facility capacity
Sources
144 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Alan Watson
[person]
Ali Lamont Tanner
[person]
Ali Tanner
[person]
Amos Bennett Huff Jr.
[person]
Amos Huff
[person]
Andy Ulysse
[person]
Anthony v. Farmer
[case]
Antonio Binns
[person]
Antonio Wiley
[person]
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
[organization]
Augusta State Medical Prison
[facility]
Augusta State Medical Prison Stratification Plan
[program]
Augusta Transitional Center
[facility]
Augusta University
[organization]
Augusta University Medical Center
[organization]
Augusta University-Georgia Correctional Healthcare
[organization]
Barbra Colón
[person]
Barry Fleming
[person]
Betty McGrew
[person]
Billy Nichols
[person]
Board of Corrections
[organization]
Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia
[organization]
Bobbi Pohlman-Rodgers
[person]
Bradley v. Augusta State Medical Prison
[case]
Brendon Moore
[person]
Brian K. Epps
[person]
Bruce Smith
[person]
Cameron Maddox
[person]
Catherine Towry
[person]
Centene Corporation
[organization]
Centurion
[organization]
Centurion Health
[organization]
Charles Powell
[person]
Chris Barnett
[person]
Columbia County
[facility]
Columbia County Coroner's Office
[organization]
Columbia County Detention Center
[facility]
Columbia County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Columbia County Superior Court
[organization]
Correct Rx
[organization]
Danenberg v. Philbin
[case]
Danika George
[person]
Darla P. O'Connor
[person]
Demarvin Bennett
[person]
Deontae Lashun Holsey
[person]
Dequarius Blount
[person]
Deshawn Jones
[person]
DOJ Civil Rights Division
[organization]
Dooly State Prison
[facility]
Dr. Young
[person]
Eddie Gosier
[person]
Ellen Taylor
[person]
Eric Andrews
[person]
Eugene Griggs
[person]
FBI Augusta Field Office
[organization]
Frederick Dewberry
[person]
Fulton County Superior Court
[organization]
Garret Peter Zeegers
[person]
GCH
[organization]
George Smith
[person]
George W. Hardy
[person]
Georgia Board of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Georgia Correctional Health Care
[organization]
Georgia Correctional HealthCare
[organization]
Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Department of Offender Rehabilitation
[organization]
Georgia Department of Public Health
[organization]
Georgia Department of Transportation
[organization]
Georgia Office of Planning and Budget
[organization]
Georgia Regents University
[organization]
Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles
[organization]
Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission
[organization]
Gerald Jiminez
[person]
Gregory C. Dozier
[person]
Grovetown
[organization]
Hardy v. Georgia Department of Corrections
[case]
Harmeet K. Dhillon
[person]
Homer Bryson
[person]
Isreal Walters
[person]
J. Kevin Perry
[person]
J. Randal Hall
[person]
Jackie Mitchell
[person]
Jackson v. Warden of Augusta State Medical Prison
[case]
Jacobi Chomicki
[person]
James Hood
[person]
James Leon Washington
[person]
Janette Shields
[person]
Jasmine Wilkens
[person]
Jenkins v. Augusta State Medical Prison
[case]
Jennifer Ammons
[person]
Jerry Lackey
[person]
Jerry Merritt
[person]
Jerry W. Merritt
[person]
Jim Barnaby
[person]
Joan Heath
[person]
John Jaquis Trimier
[person]
John Trimier
[person]
John Williams
[person]
Joslynn Apaisa
[person]
Justin Washington
[person]
Keturah Dunbar
[person]
Kimberly Fountain
[person]
LaTonya King
[person]
Lloyd Edward Hopkins
[person]
Lloyd Hopkins
[person]
Lonon v. Philbin
[case]
Loyal v. Georgia Department of Corrections
[case]
Lucretia Nicole Davis
[person]
Mable P. Wheeler
[person]
Macon State Prison
[facility]
Marcus Phillips
[person]
Mark Taylor
[person]
Mary Sherryl Alston
[person]
Massey v. Augusta State Medical Prison
[case]
Medical Association of Georgia
[organization]
Medical College of Georgia
[organization]
Metro State Prison
[facility]
MHM
[organization]
Michael Lorenzo Ward
[person]
Michael Paschal
[person]
Montra Moss
[person]
National Commission on Correctional Health Care
[organization]
Nicole Rosario
[person]
Nikki Reynolds
[person]
Office of Health Services
[organization]
Officer Jebkely
[person]
Paul Brown
[person]
Phillips
[person]
Randy Sauls
[person]
Raphael Zachery Milligan
[person]
Richmond County
[facility]
Richmond County jail
[facility]
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Roberson
[person]
Robert Markley
[person]
Robert Roberson
[person]
Robert Robish
[person]
Roderick Hayes
[person]
Sam Britton
[person]
Scott Wilkes
[person]
Shields
[person]
Smith v. Augusta State Medical Prison
[case]
Southern District of Georgia
[case]
Stan Shepard
[person]
State of Georgia
[organization]
Supreme Court of Georgia
[organization]
Sylvester Hagins
[person]
Tamika Harvey
[person]
Tara M. Lyons
[person]
Ted Philbin
[person]
Terri Bussey
[person]
Terry Anthony
[person]
Terry Lee Bennett
[person]
Terry Lee Bennett II
[person]
Terry Norman
[person]
Thomas Giles
[person]
Thomas Henry Giles
[person]
Tim Young
[person]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Timothy Young
[person]
Tommy Tremble
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Georgia
[organization]
U.S. Department of Justice
[organization]
United States Department of Health, Education and Welfare
[organization]
United States v. Williams
[case]
Vanessa Loyal
[person]
Vera Harden
[person]
Vernon Collins
[person]
Vicky Huff
[person]
Victor Walker
[person]
Wellpath
[organization]
Wellstar MCG Health
[facility]
Wendy Evans
[person]
William Moss
[person]
William Taylor Bodge
[person]
WJBF
[organization]
WRDW/WAGT
[organization]
Zaquana Hampton
[person]