Calhoun State Prison (Morgan): capacity, deaths and violence, prosecutions, lawsuits, staffing, money and audits
Calhoun State Prison: the public record, 2015 to 2026
This collection sets out facts from public sources on the subject in its title, drawn from Georgia, federal sources, 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.
Budget & Spending
Georgia's prison budget rose from $1.53 billion in fiscal 2024 to an all-time peak of $1.91 billion in fiscal 2025, then settled near $1.79 billion for fiscal 2027. Across that arc the money moved toward health contracts, private beds and surveillance technology while the state-operated prison program, food service and education shrank. GPS's own budget series has since corrected several of its earlier headline claims, and the gap between what the state appropriates and what it can show for it remains the central accountability problem.
11,375 data points
Mortality & Deaths in Custody
Georgia's prison system recorded at least 1,915 deaths in custody between January 1, 2020, and the registry cutoff — a floor, not a total, because the Georgia Department of Corrections reports deaths roughly two months late and stopped publishing cause of death in March 2024. Homicides rose from a ceiling of nine a year (2011–2018) to 142 across 2018–2023, a 95.8% increase in the last three years, while the department's own mortality data classified obvious homicides as unknown and medical examiners recorded at least 44 overdose deaths the department had labeled natural or undetermined. The same reporting collapse now covers suicide, heat death, and medical neglect — the categories in which the state's own records show people dying unattended in cells for days.
8,758 data points
Oversight & Accountability
Georgia runs one of the largest prison systems in the United States with no independent body empowered to inspect it, and every internal mechanism that might substitute for outside oversight — the Board of Corrections, the Office of Professional Standards, the inmate grievance system, PREA audits, ACA accreditation, and the department's own mortality reviews — is staffed, funded, and answered to by the agency it would police. The result is a documented pattern in which the only functioning accountability actor has been the federal government: a Justice Department investigation opened in 2016, expanded twice, and concluded in October 2024 with a finding that Georgia's prisons violate the Eighth Amendment, followed by no consent decree, no enforcement action, and no new federal prosecution of prison staff. This page collects what the record shows about how oversight fails in Georgia, how the failures are measured, and what the evidence says an actual oversight mechanism would require.
16,182 data points
Staffing Crisis
Georgia's prison system has run correctional officer vacancy rates above 50 percent since 2021, with ten of its largest facilities above 70 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Justice's October 2024 findings and the state's own budget testimony. Turnover compounds the shortfall: 82.7 percent of officers hired between January 2021 and November 2024 left within a year, and Georgia ranks last among the 50 states in correctional officer pay. Federal investigators, state-hired consultants and the Georgia Senate Study Committee have each identified staffing as the primary mechanism behind the violence, delayed medical response and unchecked gang control documented inside the system.
9,994 data points
Violence & Safety
Georgia's prisons kill people at several times the national rate, and the state's own records understate how often. A three-year federal civil rights investigation concluded in October 2024 that Georgia violates the Eighth Amendment by failing to protect incarcerated people from violence and sexual abuse, finding "near-constant life-threatening violence" and gang control of housing units. The documented record runs from 142 homicides in six years to more than 1,400 violent incidents in sixteen months — and a death registry that keeps growing.
11,037 data points
Key Findings
The most impactful data from this research collection. Tap a card for the full finding and its source.
The finding
DOJ's findings report describes a death at Calhoun State Prison in which no one had entered the person's cell for two days and the door flap had been locked shut earlier that week. Incarcerated people reported the deceased had thrown water out of his cell flap and that staff shut off the water supply, closed the flap, and did not deliver meals. Cause of death was reported as dehydration with renal failure.
The finding
DOJ's findings report states emergency responders arrived at Calhoun State Prison at 1:04 p.m. but, due to delays waiting for staff to open the prison gates, were not inside the prison until 1:11 p.m.
The finding
GDC reported that on November 19 at Calhoun State Prison, Officer Temperess Johnson entered the front sally port in a state vehicle to transport an offender to an outside appointment; a search of the vehicle found 2 packages wrapped in black tape that appeared to be cell phones and 2.6 pounds of methamphetamine, and she was arrested by the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office.
The finding
DOJ's findings report describes a third killing at Calhoun State Prison in which an individual was killed by his cellmate. An officer had previously reported the two men should not share a cell because of the STG status of both and because the assailant was significantly bigger (seven feet tall and 340 pounds). A supervisor failed to verify the room status, and an officer failed to respond to an orderly's report that the men wanted to be separated because they were not getting along. A day later, another orderly saw the assailant beating the victim with a fan motor in a net bag. The victim died of multiple blunt force traumas and a stab wound to the neck.
The finding
A DOJ press release states that two Georgia inmates orchestrated a phone scheme from behind bars, extorting at least 119 citizens by demanding payment for supposed missed jury-duty fines, and were sentenced to federal prison following an FBI investigation.
The finding
AJC listed Calhoun State Prison's correctional officer vacancy rate as 69.67%.
The finding
The jury-duty call scheme centered out of Calhoun State Prison resulted in more than $464,920 in documented losses from 119 victims nationwide, though the true number of victims is likely much higher.
The finding
DOJ found that in May 2022, a 21-year-old man was killed by his cellmate at Calhoun State Prison following multiple failures in GDC's classification and housing systems; the homicide occurred after staff moved the assailant out of segregation, to general population, and then back to segregation.
The finding
DOJ found that in February 2023, an incarcerated person was found dead in his restrictive-housing cell at Calhoun State Prison, leaning against the door and wrapped in mattress padding, about thirty minutes after a GDC officer noticed he had not moved for hours.
The finding
A GDC press release about Calhoun State Prison states that through GDC's partnership with the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office, a total of 24 civilians, including one juvenile, were covered by the announced contraband-related arrests.
The finding
The AJC found that nearly two dozen cases involving prison drug smuggling were thrown out in Calhoun County between 2018 and 2021 after the district attorney determined that the Georgia Department of Corrections, and in some cases the local sheriff, failed to submit confiscated drugs to the GBI for testing.
The finding
The DOJ's findings report states that in February 2023, emergency responders arrived at Calhoun State Prison at 1:04 p.m. but were not inside the prison until 1:11 p.m. due to delays waiting for staff to open the gates, in connection with the death of an incarcerated person found in restrictive housing.
The finding
The DOJ's findings report states that in September 2022, a former Calhoun correctional officer received a five-year federal prison sentence for attempting to smuggle two pounds of methamphetamine and eight cellphones into the prison.
The finding
The AJC's list of Georgia prison homicides states Calhoun State Prison had 4 homicides.
All Data Points
183 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Crystal Avery sentenced to 48 months for meth smuggling scheme tied to Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Crystal Avery, 37, of Lithia Springs, GA, was sentenced on June 20, 2019 by the Honorable W. Louis Sands to 48 months imprisonment after admitting guilt to Possession with Intent to distribute methamphetamine as part of a scheme to smuggle drugs into Calhoun State Prison.
GDC suspends statewide visitation through April 10, 2020 Policy
Following Governor Kemp's directive, the Georgia Department of Corrections suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide, effective through April 10, 2020.
Three inmates injured in gang fight at Telfair State Prison Case detail
Three inmates were hurt in a 'gang-related' fight at Telfair State Prison on a Thursday, according to the Georgia Department of Corrections. The fight involved numerous offenders but was contained to one dorm. Three inmates were sent to local hospitals for treatment of 'non-life-threatening injuries' but have since returned to the facility.
Henry v. Dozier dismissed for failure to exhaust administrative remedies Legal fact
On January 17, 2020, the U.S. District Court (Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner) adopted the magistrate judge's report and recommendation and granted the motion to dismiss Henry's recast complaint against the Calhoun State Prison warden, dismissing it without prejudice for failure to exhaust administrative remedies.
Jose Morales reassigned as Warden of Calhoun State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the reassignment of Jose Morales as Warden of Calhoun State Prison effective July 1, 2013. The facility is located in Morgan, Georgia. As Warden, Morales was responsible for overseeing 267 staff members and 1,663 medium-security male offenders.
Calhoun State Prison capacity Statistic
GDC's facility page for Calhoun State Prison lists its capacity as 1,677.
1,677 beds
Calhoun State Prison PREA audit report date and auditor Legal fact
Calhoun State Prison's PREA audit report was conducted by auditor Robert Lanier of Diversified Correctional Services, LLC, with a report date of April 30, 2019.
Verdict in Calhoun State Prison killing: Burley and Adams convicted Case detail
A jury found Undrea Burley and Wesley Adams guilty of felony murder, aggravated assault and gang activity in the Calhoun State Prison killing; both were sentenced to life in prison without parole. Demetrius Smith was found not guilty.
DOJ documents Calhoun death by dehydration after water shut off and meals withheld Case detail
DOJ's findings report describes a death at Calhoun State Prison in which no one had entered the person's cell for two days and the door flap had been locked shut earlier that week. Incarcerated people reported the deceased had thrown water out of his cell flap and that staff shut off the water supply, closed the flap, and did not deliver meals. Cause of death was reported as dehydration with renal failure.
Calhoun State Prison capacity: 1,438 standard, 170 special use, 1,608 physical beds Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' special examination of GDC lists Calhoun State Prison as Male, Medium risk level, with an Average Standard Bed Count of 1,438, Average Special Use Bed Count of 170, and Average Physical Bed Count of 1,608.
1,438 standard beds vs. 1,608 physical beds
Inmate Brousshard directed meth deliveries to two prisons using hidden cell phone Case detail
According to plea agreements cited in a DOJ press release, Mr. Brousshard, an inmate at Calhoun State Prison, directed the acquisition, packaging, and delivery of methamphetamine to two Georgia prisons on several occasions, using a cell phone illegally hidden inside the prisons to direct deliveries inside both Dooly State Prison and Calhoun State Prison.
All GDC facilities placed on lockdown after Telfair fight Policy
As a result of the gang-related fight at Telfair State Prison, the Georgia Department of Corrections placed all GDC facilities under lockdown 'out of an abundance of caution.' As of Friday afternoon, Telfair and Calhoun state prisons and specific dorms at Hancock and Wilcox prisons remained on lockdown while all other facilities had returned to normal operations.
Clayton v. Ward dismissed on defendants' motion Legal fact
On February 11, 2022, the court granted defendants Tarmarshe Smith and Tony Ward's motion to dismiss, accepted and adopted the report and recommendation, and dismissed the complaint in Clayton v. Ward (Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner).
Calhoun State Prison facility profile Finding
GDC's facility page lists Calhoun State Prison as constructed in 1993, capacity 1,677, opened in 1994, security level medium, and renovated in 2008.
Two inmates sentenced to life without parole for prison killing Legal fact
Undrea Burley and Wesley Adams were each sentenced to life in prison without parole following their felony murder convictions in the Calhoun State Prison killing.
Emergency responders delayed 7 minutes at Calhoun prison gates Case detail
DOJ's findings report states emergency responders arrived at Calhoun State Prison at 1:04 p.m. but, due to delays waiting for staff to open the prison gates, were not inside the prison until 1:11 p.m.
Calhoun State Prison special use bed count: 170 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' special examination lists Calhoun State Prison's Average Special Use Bed Count as 170.
170 special use beds
Meth smuggling case investigated by Calhoun County Sheriff, GDC, and DEA Case detail
A DOJ press release states the case involving the scheme to smuggle methamphetamine into Calhoun State Prison was investigated by the Calhoun County Sheriff's Department, the Georgia Department of Corrections, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Leah McEwen.
Officer Temperess Johnson arrested with 2.6 pounds of methamphetamine at Calhoun SP Case detail
GDC reported that on November 19 at Calhoun State Prison, Officer Temperess Johnson entered the front sally port in a state vehicle to transport an offender to an outside appointment; a search of the vehicle found 2 packages wrapped in black tape that appeared to be cell phones and 2.6 pounds of methamphetamine, and she was arrested by the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office.
Kevin Sprayberry promoted to Warden of Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the promotion of Kevin Sprayberry as Warden of Calhoun State Prison effective January 1, 2015, responsible for overseeing 267 staff members and 1,663 medium security inmates.
Burley sentenced to life without parole for felony murder Legal fact
The jury acquitted Demetrious Smith of all charges; the trial court directed a verdict of not guilty as to Count 3 of the indictment, and the jury found Adams and Burley guilty on Counts 1 and 2. At sentencing, the trial court merged Count 2 into Count 1 and sentenced Burley to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Count 1.
Eleventh Circuit affirms dismissal of Henry failure-to-protect claim for non-exhaustion Legal fact
The Eleventh Circuit (No. 20-10290, non-argument calendar) affirmed dismissal of Floyd Antonio Henry's failure-to-protect complaint against the Calhoun State Prison warden, holding Henry failed to exhaust available administrative remedies as required by the PLRA.
Stipulation of dismissal in Jacobs v. Georgia Department of Corrections Legal fact
The parties in Jacobs v. Georgia Department of Corrections (M.D. Ga. Columbus Division) filed a stipulation of dismissal as to all parties following a notice of settlement. The dismissal was entered December 16, 2025, and the case was closed.
Calhoun housing units and segregation cells Finding
GDC's facility page describes Calhoun State Prison's housing as nine housing units with 24 triple-bunked cells each and 24 double-bunked cells each, eight open dormitories with a total of 480 beds, and 95 segregation/isolation cells.
Food service worker arrested with nine contraband bundles at Calhoun Case detail
GDC reported that on January 5 at Calhoun State Prison, a staff member received an anonymous tip that Food Service Worker Kierra Fields was bringing in contraband, and that she was searched and found to have nine bundles of an unknown substance wrapped in electrical tape on her person.
Demetrius Smith acquitted in Calhoun State Prison killing Case detail
Demetrius Smith was found not guilty in the Calhoun State Prison killing case.
DOJ documents third killing at Calhoun: cellmate homicide after staff failed to separate STG-status men Case detail
DOJ's findings report describes a third killing at Calhoun State Prison in which an individual was killed by his cellmate. An officer had previously reported the two men should not share a cell because of the STG status of both and because the assailant was significantly bigger (seven feet tall and 340 pounds). A supervisor failed to verify the room status, and an officer failed to respond to an orderly's report that the men wanted to be separated because they were not getting along. A day later, another orderly saw the assailant beating the victim with a fan motor in a net bag. The victim died of multiple blunt force traumas and a stab wound to the neck.
Calhoun State Prison physical bed count: 1,608 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' special examination lists Calhoun State Prison's Average Physical Bed Count as 1,608.
1,608 physical beds
Two inmates ran jury-duty extortion scheme from prison, extorting at least 119 citizens Case detail
A DOJ press release states that two Georgia inmates orchestrated a phone scheme from behind bars, extorting at least 119 citizens by demanding payment for supposed missed jury-duty fines, and were sentenced to federal prison following an FBI investigation.
Officer Chakeria Fletcher arrested with 62.78 grams of tobacco at Calhoun SP Case detail
GDC reported that on November 16 at Calhoun State Prison, the portal sergeant observed a suspicious object on Officer Chakeria Fletcher; she consented to a search and a condom containing 62.78 grams of tobacco was recovered, and she was arrested by the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office.
Calhoun State Prison facility description: constructed 1993, capacity 1663 Finding
GDC's facility description for Calhoun State Prison lists adult male felons housed there, constructed 1993, physical capacity 1663, operational capacity 1560, opened 1994, security level medium, renovated 2008.
Georgia Supreme Court affirms Burley conviction despite erroneous jury instructions Legal fact
The Georgia Supreme Court held that the trial court's instructions concerning the offenses of felony murder and aggravated assault with intent to murder, though erroneous, did not constitute plain error requiring reversal. Therefore, the Court affirmed Undrea Burley's judgment of conviction.
Terrell v. Calhoun State Prison was a habeas petition, dismissed without prejudice Legal fact
Terrell v. Calhoun State Prison was a habeas corpus petition under 28 U.S.C. § 2254, not a civil rights conditions suit, and was dismissed without prejudice on February 27, 2019 by Judge Marc Thomas Treadwell.
Jury-duty phone scam operated from Georgia prison Case detail
A WRDW/WAGT news report states that two Georgia men who ran a jury-duty phone scam from behind bars were sentenced to federal prison for targeting at least 119 victims nationwide. Lance 'C-Port' Riddle was sentenced to 200 months and Joey Jackson to 120 months, each followed by three years of supervised release. A federal jury in January convicted them of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Calhoun visitation hours Policy
GDC's facility page lists Calhoun State Prison's visitation hours as 9:00AM to 3:00PM.
Traffic stop near Calhoun yields guns, drones, drugs; four arrested Case detail
On March 5 at Calhoun State Prison, a traffic stop was conducted on two vehicles near the facility, driven by Kieshana Davis and Ashont'e Cushions, and a search found guns, drones, debit cards, cell phones, marijuana, methamphetamine, and tobacco, with Davis, Cushions, and civilians Jacorey Streeter and Ryan Rugg all arrested and transported to the Calhoun County Jail.
Paul William Phillips fatally stabbed at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Paul William Phillips, described in the article as fifty-three years old, was fatally stabbed at Calhoun State Prison. He was serving a 30-year sentence for aggravated child molestation.
OPS homicide investigation found policy violations but no discipline documented for three security staff Finding
DOJ's findings report states OPS's investigation of a 2022 homicide at Calhoun State Prison identified multiple policy violations and other staff errors contributing to inappropriately housing the victim with the person who allegedly murdered him. Employee documentation for the three security staff identified in the investigation did not mention the homicide or any resulting discipline or counseling, and subsequent performance evaluations were largely positive.
May 20 contraband interception at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
A GDC press release states that in the early morning hours of May 20, Calhoun County Sheriff's Officer Dexter Sapp was patrolling the grounds of Calhoun State Prison, spotted a suspicious vehicle, and requested assistance from Calhoun County Sheriff Josh Hilton, Calhoun Officer James Dunn, and Arlington Police Officer Lee Whitehead.
Lance Riddle sentenced to 200 months for jury-duty phone scheme Case detail
Lance Riddle, aka 'C-Port,' was sentenced to serve a total of 200 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, to run consecutively to any state sentence, for the jury-duty phone scheme run from Calhoun State Prison.
Calhoun State Prison housing configuration: nine units, 480 dorm beds, 95 segregation cells Finding
GDC's facility description describes Calhoun State Prison's housing as nine housing units with 24 triple-bunked cells each and 24 double-bunked cells each, eight open dormitories with a total of 480 beds, and 95 segregation/isolation cells.
Calhoun cell block H-1 locked down after fight on June 9, 2016 Case detail
At about 9:00 p.m. on June 9, 2016, cell block H-1 of the Calhoun State Prison was placed on lockdown following a fight between inmates. Prison surveillance video showed that, as the lockdown began, inmates Burley, Adams, and Brooks entered cell 107 of the H-1 block just before the cell doors closed and locked. An hour and a half later, Correctional Officer Shakera Burns can be seen slipping a note beneath the door of cell 107.
Two Calhoun correctional officers arrested for smuggling meth in a Hot Pocket Case detail
Corlethia Lattimore, 28, of Edison, a Calhoun State Prison correctional officer, was charged with trafficking and violation of oath of office; Imani Ferguson, 21, of Albany, was also arrested and charged with conspiracy, giving illegal substances to inmates, and violation of oath of office, after a metal detector found drugs and tobacco, including about 112 grams of meth, hidden inside a Hot Pocket.
Calhoun State Prison mission statement Policy
GDC's facility page states Calhoun State Prison's mission is to protect the public, staff and offenders by providing a safe and humane living environment for medium and minimum security offenders, using Risk, Needs, Responsivity, Treatment, and Program Integrity principles, primarily targeting offenders' criminal thinking, substance abuse, education and employment needs.
Phillips serving 30-year sentence for aggravated child molestation Case detail
At the time of his fatal stabbing at Calhoun State Prison, Paul William Phillips was serving a 30-year sentence for aggravated child molestation.
DOJ toured Calhoun State Prison during 2022-2023 investigation Methodology note
DOJ's findings report states that as part of its investigation, DOJ visited Calhoun State Prison among the prisons toured in 2022 and 2023.
Joey Amour Jackson sentenced to 120 months for jury-duty phone scheme Case detail
Joey Amour Jackson, aka 'Apes---,' was sentenced to serve a total of 120 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, to run consecutively to any state sentence, for the jury-duty phone scheme run from Calhoun State Prison.
PREA audit: Calhoun official capacity 1639, operational capacity 1448 Finding
GDC's PREA audit of Calhoun State Prison states the prison is an adult male prison built in 1993 and opened in 1994, with an official capacity of 1639 and an operational capacity of 1448.
Calhoun C.E.R.T. team and fire station Finding
GDC's facility page states Calhoun State Prison houses a C.E.R.T. team and a fire station in addition to its housing units, dormitories, and 95 segregation/isolation cells.
February 2023 grievance: Calhoun inmate moved to 'the hole' over safety and extortion Case detail
DOJ's findings report states that in February 2023 an incarcerated person at Calhoun State Prison filed a grievance alleging he had been removed from his housing unit to 'the hole' because of safety concerns and that he had been the victim of attempted extortion.
FY2008 budget: $1,809,582 for 12 months operating funds for 192-bed Calhoun expansion Statistic
The AFY2007/FY2008 Georgia Governor's Budget In Brief provided 12 months of operating funds for a 192-bed expansion at Calhoun State Prison in the amount of $1,809,582.
$1.8M vs. 192 beds in expansion
Source
GDC Board minutes discuss contraband introduction at Calhoun State Prison Policy
GDC Board of Corrections minutes record a presentation covering contraband introduction at Calhoun State Prison and the Georgia Department of Corrections partnership with the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office, alongside civilian arrests, the Hancock State Prison operation schedule of events, and seized contraband totals.
PREA audit: Calhoun consists of nine buildings, eight living units Finding
GDC's PREA audit of Calhoun State Prison states the facility consists of nine buildings and that there are eight living units, some open bay configuration and some double and triple bunked cells.
Autopsy details severe blunt-force injuries to Joshua Brooks Case detail
A GBI forensic pathologist's autopsy found that Joshua Brooks suffered numerous deep, blunt-force injuries to his head, forearm, chest, abdomen, arms, and legs. His head was so battered that it was asymmetrical, lumpy, swollen, and described as feeling like Play-Doh.
No Calhoun mention in GDC all-facilities lockdown coverage Data gap
A search of WSAV-TV's report 'All GDC facilities on lockdown after violent night' for 'Calhoun' and 'Calhoun SP' returned no match.
Curtis Johnson promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Curtis Johnson, Chief Counselor at Calhoun State Prison, to Deputy Warden of Security at Calhoun State Prison, effective May 16, 2025.
Jennifer Craft promoted to Deputy Warden of Administration Case detail
GDC announced that Jennifer Craft was promoted to Deputy Warden of Administration at Calhoun State Prison effective April 16, 2022.
Calhoun County Sheriff arrested 20 people in one week in June 2021 for contraband introduction Case detail
DOJ's findings report, in a sidebar on contraband arrests, states that in June 2021 the Calhoun County Sheriff's Department arrested 20 people in one week for trying to introduce contraband into Calhoun State Prison.
FY2007 budget: $4,303,162 one-time start-up costs deleted for Calhoun and Johnson SPs Statistic
The AFY2007/FY2008 Georgia Governor's Budget In Brief deleted one-time start-up costs for Calhoun State Prison and Johnson State Prison for FY2007 in the amount of $4,303,162.
$4.3M
Source
Officer Kanesha Ware admitted bringing marijuana to inmate twice Case detail
GDC reported that on November 26, Calhoun State Prison Correctional Officer Kanesha Ware was arrested by the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office and admitted to bringing marijuana on two different occasions to an inmate.
Phil Hall promoted to Warden of Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Commissioner Brian Owens announced the promotion of Phil Hall as the Warden of Calhoun State Prison effective October 1, 2013, responsible for overseeing 254 staff members and 1,663 medium security inmates.
Georgia Supreme Court affirmed Burley judgment in Brooks felony murder case Legal fact
The Georgia Supreme Court affirmed Undrea Burley's judgment in the felony murder case over Joshua Brooks's death at Calhoun State Prison.
No 'Fast Track' reference on GDC Calhoun State Prison page Data gap
A search of the GDC's Calhoun State Prison location page for 'Fast Track' and 'Fast-Track' returned no match.
Calhoun State Prison leadership listing as of October 16, 2026 Policy
The GDC Facility Operations listing updated October 16, 2026, shows Warden Charles Hudson, Deputy Warden Security Curtis Johnson, Deputy Warden Security Gwendolyn Spencer, Deputy Warden C&T Tracey Scott, and Deputy Warden Admin. Sawanda Owens at Calhoun State Prison.
Sawanda Owens promoted to Deputy Warden of Administration Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Sawanda Owens, Accounting Technician III at Rutledge State Prison, to Deputy Warden of Administration at Calhoun State Prison, effective August 1, 2026.
Calhoun State Prison correctional officer vacancy rate 69.67% Statistic
AJC listed Calhoun State Prison's correctional officer vacancy rate as 69.67%.
69.7%
Calhoun State Prison lockdown after June 11 homicide amid gang tensions Case detail
WALB reported that Calhoun State Prison was placed on lockdown after a homicide there on June 11th, as officials decided to restrict movement and cancel visitation amid rising gang tensions statewide.
Officer Pretorria Daniels admitted bringing contraband to inmate Case detail
GDC reported that on November 23, Calhoun State Prison Correctional Officer Pretorria Daniels was arrested by the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office and admitted to bringing contraband to an inmate.
Deserre Jones promoted to Deputy Warden of Administration at Calhoun Case detail
Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Deserre Jones to Deputy Warden of Administration at Calhoun State Prison effective September 1, 2017.
DOJ CRIPA notice letter lists Trevonza Bobbitt as Warden of Calhoun State Prison Legal fact
The DOJ's CRIPA notice letter to Governor Kemp lists Trevonza Bobbitt as Warden of Calhoun State Prison among the facility wardens the letter was sent to.
William Steedley and Timothy C. Ward terminated as parties in Clayton v. Ward Legal fact
In Clayton v. Ward, the court terminated William Steedley of Calhoun State Prison and Timothy C. Ward of the Georgia Department of Corrections as parties on May 25, 2021, after accepting and adopting the magistrate judge's report and recommendation.
Calhoun housing layout: nine units, 24 triple- and 24 double-bunked cells each, eight dorms with 480 beds, 95 segregation cells Finding
AJC reported Calhoun State Prison has nine housing units with 24 triple-bunked cells and 24 double-bunked cells each, eight open dormitories with 480 beds, and 95 segregation/isolation cells.
Multiple Georgia prisons locked down over rising gang tensions Finding
WALB reported that several Georgia prisons, including Calhoun State Prison, were placed on lockdown "because of rising tensions between gangs" after state officials cited the homicide at Calhoun State Prison on June 11th along with fights at Smith State Prison.
Benjamin Ford reassigned as Warden of Calhoun State Prison effective July 1, 2016 Policy
GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the reassignment of Benjamin Ford to Warden at Calhoun State Prison effective July 1, 2016. As Warden, Ford was responsible for overseeing 253 staff members and 1,677 medium security male offenders.
Officer Quenton Alston arrested for facilitating contraband introduction Case detail
GDC reported that on November 3, a GDC Special Agent arrested Calhoun State Prison Correctional Officer Quenton Alston after discovering he was helping to facilitate the introduction of contraband inside the facility.
Roger Hodge promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Calhoun Case detail
Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Roger Hodge to deputy warden of security at Calhoun State Prison effective June 1, 2019, responsible for overseeing approximately 253 security staff members.
Eleventh Circuit affirmed summary judgment for officer in Shaw v. Calhoun State Prison Legal fact
The Eleventh Circuit affirmed the district court's grant of summary judgment for the defendant officer, Antwanette Spencer, in Shaw v. Calhoun State Prison.
No Calhoun State Prison line item in FY 2025 amended capital projects and bonds Data gap
Searches of HB 67 (FY 2025A) Capital Projects and Bonds (Governor House) for 'Calhoun State Prison', 'Calhoun SP' and 'Calhoun' returned no match.
Indictment in beating death of inmate Joshua Brooks at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
On March 30, 2017, a Calhoun County grand jury indicted Undrea Burley and co-defendants Wesley Adams, Shakera Burns, and Demetrious Smith for offenses in connection with the beating death of Joshua Brooks, an inmate of Calhoun State Prison. The charges against Burns, a corrections officer, were severed and she was to be tried separately.
Calhoun listed as medium security with 1,645 inmates Statistic
Calhoun State Prison was listed as medium security with 1,645 inmates and a correctional officer vacancy rate of 69.67%.
1,645 inmates
16 inmates injured in Smith State Prison fights cited alongside Calhoun homicide Statistic
WALB reported that Calhoun State Prison was placed on lockdown after the homicide at Calhoun State Prison on June 11th, and that multiple fights at Smith State Prison, where 16 inmates were injured, led officials to restrict movement and cancel visitation.
16 inmates injured
Trevonza Bobbitt reassigned as Warden of Calhoun State Prison effective January 1, 2023 Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Trevonza Bobbitt to Warden at Calhoun State Prison effective January 1, 2023, responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 1,400 adult male offenders.
Officer Patrice Thomas incident involving marijuana odor at Calhoun SP Case detail
GDC reported that on October 20 at Calhoun State Prison, a sergeant detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from one of two officers entering the building; the first officer consented to a pat search with no contraband detected, while Officer Patrice Thomas continued into the building.
Shaw is an inmate at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
The Eleventh Circuit's opinion states that Shaw is an inmate at Calhoun State Prison.
No Calhoun State Prison line item in FY 2026 criminal justice and public safety budget Data gap
A search of HB 68 (FY 2026G) Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Governor House) for 'Calhoun State Prison', 'Calhoun SP' and 'Calhoun' returned no match.
Joshua Washington sentenced for smuggling drugs into Calhoun State Prison Case detail
A former Georgia corrections officer, Joshua Washington, was sentenced to more than six years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana to inmates at Calhoun State Prison, where he worked at the time of his arrest.
Sources
- Calhoun State Prison guard sentenced for smuggling drugs into prison | Local News | albanyherald.com, article bd8580e9 08a9 5dbd 8ae7 ea5694265351 [2]
- Calhoun State Prison guard sentenced for smuggling drugs into prison | Local News | albanyherald.com, article bd8580e9 08a9 5dbd 8ae7 ea5694265351 [1]
Martel Dorsey chased by inmates, died after hospitalization Case detail
On November 24, 2023, GDC reported that staff saw inmate Martel Dorsey, of Atlanta, running from a cell while being chased by other inmates at Calhoun State Prison; he was injured, given medical aid, taken to a hospital, and later died from his injuries.
AFY2025: $34,262,515 for locking control system replacement at GDC facilities Statistic
The AFY2025 Criminal Justice and Public Safety appropriations document increased funds for design and construction to replace locking control systems at various GDC facilities in the amount of $34,262,515 in State General Funds, under both the Governor's and House versions.
$34.3M
Kendric Jackson promoted to Warden of Calhoun State Prison effective December 16, 2024 Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Kendric Jackson, Deputy Warden of Security at Telfair State Prison, to Warden at Calhoun State Prison effective December 16, 2024.
K9 hit on Officer Torrey Poindexter's vehicle found 2 grams of marijuana Case detail
GDC reported that on October 16, Special Operations conducted vehicle searches at Calhoun State Prison; a K9 drug dog hit on Officer Torrey Poindexter's vehicle and 2 grams of marijuana were discovered, and Poindexter consented to a search of his person.
Nine inmates injured in gang-related fight at Dooly State Prison Case detail
WGXA reported that nine inmates were injured in a 'gang-related' altercation at Dooly State Prison, prompting a statewide lockdown, according to GDC, with the fight contained to two dorms and seven of the nine inmates returned to the facility by Friday afternoon.
Willie Andrew Willis Jr. died after balcony fall at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Willie Andrew Willis Jr. suffered catastrophic injuries after being thrown from a balcony at Calhoun State Prison and died while incarcerated there. He told his family he had been thrown from a balcony and left unable to move. Medical records list sepsis as the cause of death, but the family believes critical time was lost and accountability is missing.
Undrea Burley found guilty of felony murder in Joshua Brooks case Case detail
A Calhoun County jury found Undrea Burley guilty of felony murder in connection with the beating death of Joshua Brooks, an inmate of Calhoun State Prison.
Mother not contacted by state officials about Dorsey death Finding
Martel Dorsey's mother, Eutha Dorsey, told WALB she had not been contacted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia Department of Corrections, or any other state officials about her son's death.
Board of Corrections property resolution: Georgia Power lease at Calhoun State Prison Policy
Board of Corrections minutes show General Counsel Jennifer Ammons presenting a property resolution on a Revocable Lease Agreement for Calhoun State Prison, involving Georgia Power Company Energy.
Charles Hudson promoted to Warden of Calhoun State Prison effective June 1, 2026 Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Charles Hudson, Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly State Prison, to Warden at Calhoun State Prison effective June 1, 2026, responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 1,620 male offenders.
Officer Katrina Favors arrested with cellphones and 105 grams of tobacco Case detail
GDC reported that on May 1 at Calhoun State Prison, Officer Katrina Favors attempted to enter the facility with two cell phones, a cell phone battery, a cell phone charger, and 105 grams of tobacco concealed inside a Styrofoam cup and plastic ziploc bag; she was arrested by the Calhoun County Sheriff's Department.
Statewide GDC lockdown and visitation cancellations after Dooly fight Policy
WGXA reported that out of an abundance of caution, all GDC facilities were placed on lockdown until further notice after the Dooly State Prison altercation, and that Dooly, Washington, Ware and Hancock state prisons would not have visitation from Saturday, May 22, to Monday, May 25, while all other state facilities would remain open.
At least four homicides documented at Calhoun State Prison Finding
A WALB report listed Willie Andrew Willis Jr.'s death as one of at least four homicides at Calhoun State Prison documented in news reports and federal findings, alongside DaQuavious Cachone Lackey (21, died after being stabbed by a cellmate), Kenneth Piper (found dead in May 2024, death under investigation), and a February 2023 dehydration death documented in the federal report.
No Calhoun or Johnson mention in Georgia Recorder coverage of Kemp prison plan Data gap
A search of the Georgia Recorder article 'Kemp unveils plan to spend millions intended to restore order in Georgia prisons' for 'Calhoun' and 'Johnson' returned no match.
Edwin Murillo sentenced to 300 months for meth trafficking from Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Edwin Murillo, 27, of Gwinnett County, an inmate at Calhoun State Prison and described as a methamphetamine broker inside the prison, was sentenced to 300 months (25 years) in prison consecutive to his state sentences by U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on April 16, 2019.
Board minutes: contraband case from Calhoun State Prison dated November 23, 2022 Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes record that Assistant Special Agent in Charge Robert Raymond briefly discussed a contraband case from Calhoun State Prison from November 23, 2022.
Board minutes: utility easement with Georgia Power for switching cubicles at Calhoun State Prison Policy
Board of Corrections minutes record a property resolution on a revocable lease agreement for Calhoun State Prison, for a permanent non-exclusive utility easement with Georgia Power Company for switching cubicles replacement.
Jerry Jefferson reassigned as Deputy Warden of Security at Calhoun State Prison effective January 1, 2023 Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Jerry Jefferson to Deputy Warden of Security at Calhoun State Prison effective January 1, 2023, responsible for overseeing security staff members and 1,600 medium-security male offenders at the facility.
Officer Laquenda Smith arrested with two cellphones in meal Case detail
GDC reported that on January 22 at Calhoun State Prison, Officer Laquenda Smith attempted to enter the facility and her meal did not clear the metal detector; x-ray examination revealed two cellphones inside her meal, and she was arrested by the Calhoun County Sheriff's Department.
Five new prisons opened in FY94 including Calhoun Finding
The Georgia Department of Corrections' annual report for FY94 states that five new prisons were opened in FY94: Calhoun, Dooly, Macon, Smith and Wilcox Correctional Institutions.
Source
Family still seeking answers one year after Willis's death Case detail
WALB reported that the family of Willie Andrew Willis Jr. was still searching for answers one year after he suffered catastrophic injuries and died while incarcerated at Calhoun State Prison.
No Calhoun State Prison line item in 2022AB General Obligation Bond project list Data gap
Searches of the Project Funding list for Georgia 2022AB General Obligation Bonds for 'Calhoun State Prison' and 'Calhoun SP' returned no match.
Eric Gilbert pleads guilty to drug conspiracy from Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Co-defendant Eric Gilbert, 46, of Calhoun State Prison, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on April 20, 2022, and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine. Gilbert's sentencing was scheduled for Sept. 22, 2022.
Calhoun State Prison listed in February 2024 Board presentation on video production Policy
Board of Corrections minutes reference Calhoun State Prison among a list of facilities discussed in connection with video production for McRae/Phillips.
Tarmarshe Smith promoted to Warden of Calhoun State Prison effective October 1, 2018 Policy
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Tarmarshe Smith, Deputy Warden of Security at Smith State Prison, to Warden at Calhoun State Prison effective October 1, 2018, responsible for overseeing approximately 253 staff members and 1,677 medium security male offenders.
Warehouse Clerk Samantha Smith sold staff food to offenders for $80 Case detail
GDC reported that on December 18 at Calhoun SP, Warehouse Clerk Samantha Smith admitted to GDC OPS that she was buying food from staff dining and selling it to offenders for $80; the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office arrested her with pending charges.
Inmate Raymond Nelson, 50, died at Calhoun State Prison in suspected suicide Case detail
Georgia Department of Corrections investigated the death of inmate Raymond Nelson, 50, found unresponsive in his cell at Calhoun State Prison on a Monday around 4:40 a.m., as a suspected suicide; he was pronounced dead at the scene around 7:45 a.m.
Grandmother of Willie Andrew Willis Jr. calls for justice Quote
WALB quoted Barbara Davis, identified as Willis's grandmother, saying: 'Justice for my grandson and the rest of the guys that's in there, because they do those inmates so bad. I just want justice for my grandson.'
No Calhoun State Prison line item in 2019AB General Obligation Bond project list Data gap
Searches of the State of Georgia final project list for Series 2019AB bonds for 'Calhoun State Prison', 'Calhoun SP' and 'Calhoun' returned no match.
Undercover source reported Eric Gilbert's drug trafficking from Calhoun State Prison Case detail
According to court documents, an undercover source informed law enforcement in June 2020 about drug trafficking being coordinated by Eric Gilbert from Calhoun State Prison, including information about his affiliation with the Ghost Face Gangster criminal street gang and a Mexican drug trafficking cartel.
Tarmarshe Smith listed as Calhoun Warden Case detail
GDC Board of Corrections minutes from November 2018 record Tarmarshe Smith as Warden of Calhoun State Prison.
Calhoun State Prison among facilities in Board presentation with next steps video production Policy
Board of Corrections minutes list Calhoun State Prison among the facilities covered in a presentation, with next steps including video production in McRae/Phillips/Metro.
Staff member Atina Stevenson arrested with methamphetamine and cellphones Case detail
GDC reported that on August 9 at Calhoun State Prison, staff member Atina Stevenson was attempting to enter the facility when contraband was detected on her person; a search found methamphetamine and cellphones, and she was arrested and transported to the Calhoun County Jail.
Notice of Settlement filed in Jacobs v. Georgia Department of Corrections Legal fact
A Notice of Settlement was filed in Jacobs v. Georgia Department of Corrections on August 15, 2025.
Contraband cell phone found under Edwin Murillo's bunk Case detail
On November 5, 2017, correctional officers found a contraband cell phone hidden under Edwin Murillo's bunk inside Calhoun State Prison, and he was consequently put in more restrictive housing.
No Calhoun State Prison line item in 2023A/2023B General Obligation Bond project list Data gap
A search of the State of Georgia General Obligation Bonds, 2023A and 2023B project list for 'Calhoun State Prison', 'Calhoun SP' and 'Calhoun' returned no match.
Arrests in murder of inmate Joshua Brooks at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Inmate Joshua Brooks was found dead in his cell at Calhoun State Prison (Calhoun Co.), and correctional officer Shakera Burns and inmates Wesley Adams, Demetrius Smith, and Undrea Burley were all arrested and charged in his murder. The GBI reported evidence of blunt force trauma to the head.
DOJ visited Calhoun in 2022 and 2023 Legal fact
The U.S. Department of Justice's CRIPA findings report on Georgia prisons states that DOJ visited Calhoun State Prison in 2022 and 2023 as part of its investigation.
PREA Cycle 4 audit: 0 exceeded, 45 met, 0 not met Finding
Calhoun State Prison's PREA Cycle 4 audit found the facility exceeded 0 standards, met 45 standards, and had 0 standards not met.
Food Service Supervisor Bratanya Reed caught with 2 ounces of marijuana Case detail
GDC reported that on December 17 at Calhoun State Prison, Food Service Supervisor Bratanya Reed attempted to enter the facility when a strong odor of marijuana was detected; she consented to a search and one bundle containing approximately 2 ounces of marijuana was recovered.
Shaw v. Calhoun State Prison transferred to Middle District of Georgia Legal fact
Shaw v. Calhoun State Prison was originally filed in the Southern District of Georgia and was transferred to the Middle District of Georgia, Albany Division, on April 27, 2017.
Former officer Tempress Johnson sentenced to five years for contraband smuggling Case detail
Tempress Johnson, 35, a former correctional officer, was sentenced to serve five years in federal prison for trying to smuggle contraband into Calhoun State Prison, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
No Calhoun State Prison line item in 2021AB General Obligation Bond project list Data gap
Searches of the Project List for Georgia 2021AB General Obligation Bonds for 'Calhoun State Prison' and 'Calhoun SP' returned no match.
Verdict in Calhoun State Prison killing of Joshua Brooks Case detail
In the Joshua Brooks prison-killing case at Calhoun State Prison, a jury found Undrea Burley and Wesley Adams guilty of felony murder, aggravated assault and gang activity, and they were sentenced to life in prison without parole. Demetrius Smith was found not guilty.
PREA Cycle 4 final report submitted 06/19/2025 by auditor Darla P OConnor Finding
Calhoun State Prison's PREA Cycle 4 final report was submitted by auditor Darla P OConnor, with a Date Final Report Submitted of 06/19/2025.
Cadet Ashley Wimberly admitted placing cocaine and marijuana in control room cooler Case detail
GDC reported that on July 24 at Calhoun State Prison, a clear bag was located inside a cooler in the control room by security staff; after an investigation, Cadet Ashley Wimberly admitted to placing the bag there, which contained 30 grams of cocaine and 230 grams of marijuana, and she was arrested by Calhoun County authorities.
Two Calhoun inmates convicted in nationwide jury-duty call scam Case detail
Lance Riddle, aka 'C-Port,' and Joey Amour Jackson, aka 'Apes---,' both of Calhoun State Prison, were found guilty of all counts charged by indictment, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, on January 9, following a five-day trial before Senior U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands in Albany.
Officer Johnson smuggled two pounds of meth and eight cell phones Case detail
In November 2019, correctional officer Tempress Johnson put a plastic bag containing two pounds of methamphetamine and eight cell phones into a prison transport van, and admitted she was to be paid $10,000 for bringing the package into the prison.
No Calhoun mention in Stateline coverage of extended prison lockdowns Data gap
A search of the Stateline article 'State prisons turn to extended lockdowns amid staffing shortages, overcrowding' for 'Calhoun' and 'Calhoun State' returned no match.
Calhoun grievance alleging extortion and removal to 'the hole' Case detail
The DOJ's findings report cites, as an example of grievance-system deficiencies, a February 2023 grievance filed by an incarcerated person at Calhoun State Prison alleging he had been removed from his housing unit to 'the hole' because of safety concerns and had been the victim of attempted extortion.
PREA Cycle 4: design capacity 1,651, current population 1,645 Statistic
GDC's PREA Cycle 4 audit of Calhoun State Prison lists designed facility capacity as 1,651 and current population of the facility as 1,645.
1,645 people vs. 1,651 designed facility capacity
Calhoun State Prison completed back gate hardening and sally port upgrades in FY2020 Policy
GDC's Annual Fiscal Report 2020 states that Calhoun State Prison was one of the state prisons that completed back gate hardening, new interior sally port gates, and fencing modification security upgrades in FY 2020.
Counselor Churonda Tillman arrested with marijuana and $2,200 cash Case detail
GDC reported that on June 28 at Calhoun State Prison, Counselor Churonda Tillman was arrested by the Calhoun Police Department after 4 grams of marijuana and $2,200 were discovered in her vehicle.
Jury-duty scam from Calhoun State Prison caused $464,920 in documented losses Statistic
The jury-duty call scheme centered out of Calhoun State Prison resulted in more than $464,920 in documented losses from 119 victims nationwide, though the true number of victims is likely much higher.
$464,920 vs. 119 victims
Frank Phillip Hardy Jr. found guilty but mentally ill in 2019 murder of Angel Ortiz Case detail
A man was convicted and sentenced on August 26, 2025 for the 2019 murder of Angel Ortiz, a 60-year-old inmate at Calhoun State Prison. Frank Phillip Hardy Jr., also an inmate at the prison, was found 'guilty but mentally ill' of malice murder and aggravated battery and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
May 2022 cellmate homicide after classification failures Case detail
DOJ found that in May 2022, a 21-year-old man was killed by his cellmate at Calhoun State Prison following multiple failures in GDC's classification and housing systems; the homicide occurred after staff moved the assailant out of segregation, to general population, and then back to segregation.
PREA Cycle 4: average daily population 1,648; not over capacity in past 12 months Statistic
GDC's PREA Cycle 4 audit of Calhoun State Prison lists average daily population for the past 12 months as 1,648 and states the facility had not been over capacity at any point in the past 12 months.
1,648 people
Drone observed over Calhoun SP; two civilians apprehended Case detail
GDC reported that on June 20 at Calhoun SP, security staff observed a drone hovering over the facility; later that evening the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office notified the facility that civilians Elijah Lyons and Howard L. Oliver had been apprehended and transported to the Calhoun County Jail pending charges.
Eight Georgia prisons locked down after June violence; Joshua Brooks died of blunt force trauma at Calhoun Case detail
Fox News reported that authorities said eight Georgia prisons were on lockdown after a bloody June that included the killing of an inmate in one prison and a brawl at another facility that sent 16 inmates to hospitals, and that an autopsy found Joshua Brooks died of blunt force trauma after he was found unresponsive in his cell at Calhoun State Prison on June 11, with visitation canceled at Calhoun and Smith, as well as state prisons in Valdosta, Waycross, Pelham, Sparta, Oglethorpe and Helena.
District Attorney Joe Mulholland comments on Ortiz murder verdict Finding
Calhoun County District Attorney Joe Mulholland said of the Angel Ortiz murder verdict, 'This verdict brings much-needed closure to the loved ones of Angel Ortiz.'
Segregation-unit homicide by known gang member cellmate Case detail
DOJ documented that an individual was killed in a segregation unit at Calhoun State Prison by his cellmate, a known gang member, after the assailant requested that staff place him in the victim's cell; a lieutenant approved the placement, which was not reviewed by a Unit Manager as required by procedure.
PREA Cycle 4 interim report 02/26/2025; final 06/19/2025 Methodology note
GDC's PREA Cycle 4 audit report for Calhoun State Prison records a Date Interim Report Submitted of 02/26/2025 and a Date Final Report Submitted of 06/19/2025.
Drone drop at Calhoun SP delivered 6,394 grams of tobacco and 1,222 grams of marijuana Case detail
GDC reported that on September 21 at Calhoun SP, security staff observed a drone flying over the facility with a duffel bag attached; the contraband consisted of 5 cellphones, 6,394 grams of tobacco, 1,222 grams of marijuana, and 325 pieces of wrapping paper. The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office and GDC responded.
GBI investigated stabbing of two inmates at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
A report said the GBI continued to investigate the stabbing of two inmates inside Calhoun State Prison, with one inmate attacking two others between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Tuesday morning.
Homicide after STG-status housing warning ignored Case detail
DOJ documented a third Calhoun State Prison homicide in which an individual was killed by his cellmate, who was seven feet tall and 340 pounds; an officer had previously reported the two men should not have been housed together because of their STG status, but a supervisor failed to verify the room status and an officer failed to respond to an orderly's report.
PREA Cycle 4 on-site audit 01/06/2025–01/09/2025 by Darla OConnor Methodology note
GDC's PREA Cycle 4 audit report for Calhoun State Prison names the auditor as Darla OConnor, with an on-site audit start date of 01/06/2025 and end date of 01/09/2025.
Traffic stop near Calhoun SP; civilians attempting contraband drop Case detail
GDC reported that on March 5 at Calhoun State Prison, a traffic stop was conducted on two vehicles near the facility, driven by Kieshana Davis and Ashont'e Cushions, after Davis stated they had dropped off two individuals attempting to drop contraband at the facility; the GDC Canine unit located civilians on facility grounds.
All GDC facilities on lockdown after multiple fights June 18 Case detail
WSAV reported that all Georgia Department of Corrections facilities were on lockdown after a violent night statewide, with a GDC spokesperson saying multiple fights occurred across GDC facilities the evening of June 18th and all facilities were currently on lockdown out of an abundance of caution.
Inmates used contraband cellphones to run jury-duty phone scam from Calhoun State Prison Case detail
A WRDW/WAGT news report states that as inmates at Calhoun State Prison, a pair used contraband cellphones and internet-based calling to spoof local police phone numbers and pose as law enforcement officers.
Death in restrictive housing found after hours unmoved Case detail
DOJ found that in February 2023, an incarcerated person was found dead in his restrictive-housing cell at Calhoun State Prison, leaning against the door and wrapped in mattress padding, about thirty minutes after a GDC officer noticed he had not moved for hours.
GDC press release: 24 civilians including one juvenile arrested for contraband at Calhoun Case detail
A GDC press release about Calhoun State Prison states that through GDC's partnership with the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office, a total of 24 civilians, including one juvenile, were covered by the announced contraband-related arrests.
GDC suspended statewide visitation through April 10, 2020 Policy
Following a directive issued by Governor Kemp, the GDC suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide, with the suspension in effect through April 10, 2020; offenders retained access to loved ones via mail, phone calls, and GOAL devices.
Nearly two dozen Calhoun County prison drug smuggling cases dismissed 2018-2021 for untested drugs Finding
The AJC found that nearly two dozen cases involving prison drug smuggling were thrown out in Calhoun County between 2018 and 2021 after the district attorney determined that the Georgia Department of Corrections, and in some cases the local sheriff, failed to submit confiscated drugs to the GBI for testing.
Jury-duty phone scam stole more than $464,000 Statistic
A WRDW/WAGT news report states that investigators say the group behind the jury-duty phone scam operated from Calhoun State Prison stole more than $464,000.
$464,000
Emergency responders delayed at prison gates Case detail
The DOJ's findings report states that in February 2023, emergency responders arrived at Calhoun State Prison at 1:04 p.m. but were not inside the prison until 1:11 p.m. due to delays waiting for staff to open the gates, in connection with the death of an incarcerated person found in restrictive housing.
Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced 24 contraband arrests tied to Calhoun Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced that through GDC's Office of Professional Standards and its partnership with the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office, a total of 24 civilians, including one juvenile, had been arrested for attempting to introduce contraband into Calhoun State Prison.
November 15 drone drop: two arrested after traffic stop near Calhoun State Prison Case detail
A GDC contraband arrest report states that on November 15, Calhoun State Prison notified Randolph and Calhoun County Sheriff's Office of a potential drone drop, Randolph County SO conducted a traffic stop near the facility, and this led to the confiscation of the drone and two individuals being arrested and transported to the Calhoun County Jail.
Officer Shakera Burns pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in 2019 Case detail
Shakera Burns, a Calhoun State Prison correctional officer charged with murder in 2017 in connection with the beating death of inmate Joshua Brooks, pleaded guilty in 2019 to voluntary manslaughter.
Former Calhoun officer sentenced for smuggling meth and phones Case detail
The DOJ's findings report states that in September 2022, a former Calhoun correctional officer received a five-year federal prison sentence for attempting to smuggle two pounds of methamphetamine and eight cellphones into the prison.
PREA Cycle 3 audit: 2 standards exceeded, 43 met, 0 not met Finding
Calhoun State Prison's PREA Cycle 3 audit found the facility exceeded 2 standards (115.11 - Zero tolerance of sexual abuse and sexual harassment; PREA coordinator, and 115.87 - Data collection), met 43 standards, and had 0 standards not met.
AJC: Calhoun State Prison had 4 homicides Statistic
The AJC's list of Georgia prison homicides states Calhoun State Prison had 4 homicides.
4 homicides
PREA Cycle 3 final report signed 04/14/2022 by auditor Mable P. Wheeler Finding
Calhoun State Prison's PREA Cycle 3 final report was submitted by auditor Mable P. Wheeler, with the date of signature 04/14/2022.
DaQuavious Cachone Lackey, 21, died May 16, 2022 at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
The AJC lists DaQuavious Cachone Lackey, 21, as dying May 16, 2022 at Calhoun State Prison from a stab wound of the neck and multiple blunt force injuries, with the DOJ report saying he was killed after staff moved the assailant out of segregation to general population and then back to segregation without following procedures.
PREA Cycle 3: design capacity 1,655, current population 1,494 Statistic
GDC's PREA Cycle 3 audit of Calhoun State Prison lists designed facility capacity as 1,655 and current population of the facility as 1,494.
1,494 people vs. 1,655 designed facility capacity
Martel Dorsey, 34, died Oct. 4, 2023 at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
The AJC lists Martel Dorsey, 34, as dying Oct. 4, 2023 at Calhoun State Prison, stabbed by other or others with sharp instruments, and reports GDC told a TV station that several witnesses saw Dorsey run out of a dorm as he was chased by other prisoners.
PREA Cycle 3 on-site audit 02/07/2022–02/10/2022 Methodology note
GDC's PREA Cycle 3 audit report for Calhoun State Prison records a final report submitted 04/14/2022, signed by auditor Mable P. Wheeler, with an on-site audit start date of 02/07/2022 and end date of 02/10/2022.
Kenneth Piper, 37, died May 4, 2024 at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
The AJC lists Kenneth Piper, 37, with an incident report showing a murder on May 4, 2024, an inmate-to-inmate assault, at Calhoun State Prison, with his death certificate not yet filed as of the report.
PREA Cycle 3: no facility upgrades since 2017 Finding
A PREA audit of Calhoun State Prison found that 'This facility has had no upgrades in the last 12 months or since 2017,' and that the Warden and Agency Head confirmed Calhoun State Prison had no upgrades to the facility since 2017.
Gonzalo Colmenero, 54, died July 17, 2024 at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
The AJC lists Gonzalo Colmenero, 54, with incident report data showing an inmate-to-inmate assault death on July 17, 2024 at Calhoun State Prison, with his death certificate not yet filed as of the report.
GBI investigated 2007 murder at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
A report dated March 28, 2007 said the GBI was investigating a murder inside a south Georgia state prison, identified in the article as Calhoun State Prison in Morgan.
DaQuavious Lackey killed after segregation transfer procedures not followed (DOJ) Finding
The AJC's compiled list states DaQuavious Cachone Lackey, 21, died May 16, 2022 at Calhoun State Prison from a stab wound of the neck and multiple blunt force injuries, after the DOJ report said he was killed when staff moved the assailant out of segregation to general population and then back to segregation without following procedures.
2007 Calhoun attack: one inmate killed, one wounded, suspected homemade knife Case detail
One inmate attacked two others at Calhoun State Prison in Morgan on a Tuesday morning, killing one and wounding another; investigators believed the attacker used a homemade knife.
Martel Dorsey chased from dorm by other prisoners, per GDC statement to TV station Case detail
The AJC's compiled list states Martel Dorsey, 34, died Oct. 4, 2023 at Calhoun State Prison, stabbed by other or others with sharp instruments, and that GDC told a TV station several witnesses saw Dorsey run out of a dorm as he was chased by other prisoners.
Kenneth Piper death: incident report shows murder, death certificate not filed Case detail
The AJC's compiled list states Kenneth Piper, 37, died May 4, 2024 at Calhoun State Prison, with an incident report showing a murder on this date, an inmate-to-inmate assault, and that a death certificate was not in at the time of the list's compilation.
Kenneth Piper death investigated by GDC OPS; body sent to GBI Medical Examiner Case detail
GDC confirmed inmate Kenneth Piper was found dead at Calhoun State Prison in Morgan on Saturday, May 4th; his body was turned over to the county coroner to be sent to the GBI Medical Examiner's Office, and the death was being investigated by GDC's Office of Professional Standards.
Gonzalo Colmenero death: inmate-to-inmate assault, death certificate not filed Case detail
The AJC's compiled list states Gonzalo Colmenero, 54, died July 17, 2024 at Calhoun State Prison, with incident report data showing an inmate-to-inmate assault, death, and that a death certificate was not in at the time of the list's compilation.
FY2018 audit: Calhoun average standard bed count 1,438, special-use 170, physical 1,608 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' FY2018 inventory listed Calhoun State Prison as a male, medium-risk facility with an average standard bed count of 1,438, an average special-use bed count of 170, and an average physical bed count of 1,608.
1,608 beds vs. 1,438 average standard bed count
Sources
102 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Adams
[person]
Alicia Mathis
[person]
Angel Ortiz
[person]
Antonio Wright
[person]
Antwanette Spencer
[person]
Ashley Wimberly
[person]
Ashont'e Cushions
[person]
Atina Stevenson
[person]
Autry State Prison
[facility]
Barbara Davis
[person]
Benjamin Ford
[person]
Bratanya Reed
[person]
Brian Owens
[person]
Brousshard
[person]
Burley v. State
[case]
Calhoun County Jail
[facility]
Calhoun County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Calhoun State Prison
[facility]
Chakeria Fletcher
[person]
Charles Hudson
[person]
Churonda Tillman
[person]
Clayton v. Ward
[case]
Corlethia Lattimore
[person]
Crystal Avery
[person]
Curtis Johnson
[person]
DaQuavious Cachone Lackey
[person]
Darla P OConnor
[person]
Demetrious Smith
[person]
Demetrius Smith
[person]
Deserre Jones
[person]
Dexter Sapp
[person]
Diversified Correctional Services, LLC
[organization]
DOJ
[organization]
Dooly State Prison
[facility]
Drug Enforcement Administration
[organization]
Edwin Murillo
[person]
Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals
[organization]
Elijah Lyons
[person]
Elliot Harvey
[person]
Eric Gilbert
[person]
Eutha Dorsey
[person]
Federal Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Frank Phillip Hardy Jr.
[person]
Garret Peter Zeegers
[person]
GDC Office of Professional Standards
[organization]
Georgia Board of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Department of Public Health
[organization]
Georgia Power Company
[organization]
Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission
[organization]
Georgia Supreme Court
[organization]
Gonzalo Colmenero
[person]
Gregory C. Dozier
[person]
Gwendolyn Spencer
[person]
Hancock State Prison
[facility]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
Helen Washington
[person]
Helena State Prison
[facility]
Henry Harris
[person]
Henry v. Dozier
[case]
Homer Bryson
[person]
Howard L. Oliver
[person]
Imani Ferguson
[person]
Jacobs v. Georgia Department of Corrections
[case]
Jacorey Streeter
[person]
James Dunn
[person]
Jennifer Ammons
[person]
Jennifer Craft
[person]
Jerry Jefferson
[person]
Joe Mulholland
[person]
Joey Amour Jackson
[person]
Joey Jackson
[person]
Johnson State Prison
[facility]
Jose Morales
[person]
Josh Hilton
[person]
Joshua Brooks
[person]
Joshua Washington
[person]
Kanesha Ware
[person]
Katrina Favors
[person]
Kendric Jackson
[person]
Kenneth Piper
[person]
Kevin Sprayberry
[person]
Kiara Graham
[person]
Kierra Fields
[person]
Kieshana Davis
[person]
Lance Riddle
[person]
Laquenda Smith
[person]
Leah McEwen
[person]
Lee Whitehead
[person]
Mable P. Wheeler
[person]
Macon State Prison
[facility]
Martel Dorsey
[person]
Michelle Jones
[person]
Oglethorpe State Prison
[facility]
Patrice Thomas
[person]
Paul William Phillips
[person]
Pelham State Prison
[facility]
Phil Hall
[person]
PREA
[legislation]
Pretorria Daniels
[person]
Quenton Alston
[person]
Raymond Nelson
[person]
Reginald Jacobs Sr.
[person]
Robert Lanier
[person]
Robert Raymond
[person]
Roger Hodge
[person]
Rutledge State Prison
[facility]
Ryan Rugg
[person]
Samantha Smith
[person]
Sawanda Owens
[person]
Sequoia Carroll
[person]
Shakera Burns
[person]
Shaw
[person]
Shaw v. Calhoun State Prison
[case]
Smith State Prison
[facility]
Sparta State Prison
[facility]
Tarmarshe Smith
[person]
Telfair State Prison
[facility]
Temperess Johnson
[person]
Tempress Johnson
[person]
Terrell v. Calhoun State Prison
[case]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Torrey Poindexter
[person]
Tracey Scott
[person]
Trevonza Bobbitt
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Georgia
[organization]
U.S. Department of Justice
[organization]
Undrea Burley
[person]
W. Louis Sands
[person]
Ware State Prison
[facility]
Waycross State Prison
[facility]
Wesley Adams
[person]
Wilcox State Prison
[facility]
William Steedley
[person]
Willie Andrew Willis Jr.
[person]