Dooly State Prison (Unadilla): capacity, deaths and violence, prosecutions, lawsuits, staffing, money and audits
Dooly 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 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
According to Dooly County Coroner Brett Walls, next of kin had been notified, the autopsy was to be performed on January 15, and the investigation was ongoing. The article states Parrott was serving life with parole for murder out of Coffee County.
The finding
Flagler County Sheriff's Detective First Class Douglas traveled to Dooly State Prison and interviewed inmate Rivas, who admitted to orchestrating a fraud scheme and described how the fraud operation functioned from inside the Georgia prison system.
The finding
The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed a prison fight involving seven inmates and a stabbing happened at Dooly State Prison on a Thursday.
The finding
During the interview, Rivas stated that other inmates ran similar scams and claimed that correctional staff were aware of the activity. Rivas also claimed that he used proceeds from the fraud to purchase marijuana inside the prison.
The finding
The FBI's Atlanta Division announced on February 11, 2016 the results of a public corruption investigation called Operation Ghost Guard, with nearly 50 current and former Georgia Department of Corrections officers indicted that day for accepting bribes to protect what they believed to be drug shipments, after 15 corrections officers, 19 civilians and 19 inmates were indicted the prior month.
The finding
The same PREA audit report states, in a separate narrative section, that the facility has a rated bed capacity of 1,689 beds and that the general population inmate housing units consist of 9 living units with 120 inmate beds per unit. The current population listed at the time of the on-site portion of the audit was 1,672 inmates.
The finding
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's compiled homicide list for Georgia prisons records 'Dooly State Prison: 6 homicides.'
The finding
FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge J. Britt Johnson said that in the Operation Ghost Guard investigation, 'criminal and corrupt activities were found in 11 of the 35 state corrections facilities.'
The finding
GDC confirmed to CBS News Atlanta that an altercation involving numerous inmates happened at Dooly State Prison, sending nine inmates to local hospitals; seven of the nine had since returned to the prison and no staff were injured.
The finding
All of the Georgia Department of Corrections' facilities around the state were placed on lockdown after a fight sent nine inmates to the hospital, in an altercation involving numerous inmates at Dooly State Prison.
The finding
CBS News Atlanta reported that GDC oversees 34 prisons across Georgia, housing nearly 47,000 felony offenders, in its report on the statewide lockdown following the Dooly State Prison altercation.
The finding
The AJC's compiled homicide list records that Carlos Omar Soldiew-Acosta, 38, died June 22, 2024 at Dooly State Prison of complications due to blunt force trauma, and that the coroner told a TV station he may have been dead for more than 24 hours before his body was found.
The finding
According to a GDC press release, after assessments by facility medical staff, "11 offenders require outside medical treatment for injuries sustained during the altercation" at Dooly State Prison; GDC said nine inmates were taken to local hospitals and two were life-flighted for non-life-threatening injuries.
The finding
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 2013 report "State Corrections and Community Officers" lists Dooly State Prison's officer turnover rate as 20% in 2010, 26% in 2011, 32% in 2012, and 34% in 2013.
The finding
WALB reported that Dooly State Prison was among the South Georgia prisons named in the DOJ's investigation findings, alongside Autry, Calhoun, Coffee, Pulaski, Telfair, Valdosta, and Wilcox State Prisons.
The finding
Southeast Georgia Today reported that Dooly County Coroner James Hudson confirmed that Carlito Omar Soldiew-Acosta was found in his isolation cell at Dooly State Prison in Unadilla and had been deceased for at least 24 hours if not longer, with his body turned over to the GBI crime lab and foul play suspected.
The finding
A GDC press release said federal indictments were handed down for 16 current GDC Correctional Officers, 23 former GDC Correctional Officers, four current GEO Group Correctional Officers, and three former GEO Group Correctional Officers, as part of a joint GDC-FBI investigation into staff corruption.
The finding
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia said that in total, the extensive operation involving corruption in the Georgia Department of Corrections had resulted in charges against approximately 130 prison employees, inmates, and non-incarcerated co-conspirators.
The finding
Nine inmates were stabbed multiple times in a fight at Dooly State Prison, leaving one critically injured on a Friday, according to Emergency Management Agency Director Don Williford.
The finding
Dooly State Prison had 20 deaths in Georgia Department of Corrections custody, 1.87% of all GDC deaths, over the 2015-2020 period covered by the UCLA COVID Behind Bars report.
All Data Points
185 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Five prisoners injured in March 23, 2026 dormitory fight at Dooly State Prison Case detail
On March 23, 2026, five prisoners at Dooly State Prison in Unadilla required medical attention after a fight broke out in one of the prison's dormitories. GDC declined to provide information on when the fight happened or who was involved.
Chasity Coleman charged with bribery and attempted drug trafficking at Dooly SP Case detail
Chasity Coleman, 22, of Cordele, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Dooly State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions and with attempted drug trafficking, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia.
GSFIC 2023 bond project list includes $26M statewide GDC emergency repairs line item Statistic
The State of Georgia General Obligation Bonds, 2023A and 2023B project list includes a Department of Corrections line item for 'FY 2024 Emergency repairs, sustainment, and equipment, statewide' for $26,000,000. The line item is statewide, not specific to Dooly State Prison.
$26.0M USD
Davis v. Dooly State Prison: inmate alleged 12+ unanswered sick call requests for ear object Case detail
In Davis v. Dooly State Prison (M.D. Ga., 2025-07-11), a pro se inmate alleged he had 'something lodged in [his] right ear' and submitted 'over 12 sick call medical request[s] to be seen for' the issue, to no avail.
Former cadet pleads guilty to meth distribution Case detail
Julius Deshawn Williams Jr., 29, of Bonaire, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine before U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on Dec. 1.
Inmate Joshua Parrott killed after altercation at Dooly State Prison Case detail
According to the Georgia Department of Corrections, inmate Joshua Parrott was killed on a Sunday following an altercation with another prisoner at Dooly State Prison. Parrott was serving life with parole for a murder out of Coffee County.
Inmate Joshua Parrott found dead at Dooly State Prison after altercation Case detail
41NBC reported that 45-year-old Joshua Parrott was found dead around 6:15 a.m. on January 12 at Dooly State Prison following an altercation with another inmate, according to GDC.
Dooly State Prison security level: medium Finding
The GDC facility description for Dooly State Prison lists its security level as medium.
Chad Taylor Roadifer homicide at Dooly State Prison, October 27, 2023 Case detail
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of Georgia prison homicides reports that Chad Taylor Roadifer, 45, died October 27, 2023 at Dooly State Prison of delayed complications of blunt force head trauma, with an interval of months. Source text: "Chad Taylor Roadifer , 45: (Oct. 27, 2023) delayed complications of blunt force head trauma, interval months."
PREA audit found GDC and Dooly SP in compliance on youthful inmate confinement standard Finding
GDC's PREA audit report concluded that the Georgia Department of Corrections and Dooly State Prison are in compliance with the standard regarding confinement of youthful inmates.
DSP officer Elise Merrell arrested with 250 grams of marijuana Case detail
GDC's contraband arrest report states that on March 15, at Dooly State Prison, Officer Elise Merrell entered the briefing room when officers noticed a strong smell of marijuana coming from her person; after consenting to a strip search, 8 bundles of contraband containing 250 grams of marijuana were discovered, and Merrell was arrested by the Dooly County Sheriff's Office.
King v. Dooly State Prison: inmate alleged untreated injury after bunk fall and surgery Case detail
In King v. Dooly State Prison (M.D. Ga., 2023-09-20), pro se plaintiff Isaac King, Jr. alleged that he fell from a top bunk, injuring his mouth, and was not receiving medical treatment after undergoing surgery.
Williams faces maximum life sentence Legal fact
Julius Deshawn Williams Jr. faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment; sentencing date to be scheduled.
Parrott's body sent to GBI Crime Lab for cause of death Case detail
WGXA reported that after Joshua Parrott was killed following an altercation at Dooly State Prison, his body was turned over to the county coroner and taken to the GBI Crime Lab to determine cause of death.
Parrott autopsy scheduled January 15; serving life for murder out of Coffee County Case detail
According to Dooly County Coroner Brett Walls, next of kin had been notified, the autopsy was to be performed on January 15, and the investigation was ongoing. The article states Parrott was serving life with parole for murder out of Coffee County.
Dooly State Prison construction and capacity figures Statistic
A GDC facility-description document lists Dooly State Prison as constructed in 1993, opened in 1994, with a physical capacity of 1,702 and an operational capacity of 1,623, and a medium security level.
1,702 beds (physical capacity) vs. 1,623 operational capacity
Roadifer death corroborated in AMARK Foundation compilation Case detail
The AMARK Foundation document reproduces the AJC-compiled homicide list entry recording that Chad Taylor Roadifer, 45, died October 27, 2023 at Dooly State Prison of delayed complications of blunt force head trauma, with a months-long interval. Source text: "Chad Taylor Roadifer, 45: (Oct. 27, 2023) delayed complications of blunt force head trauma, interval months."
Dooly State Prison built 1993, opened 1994 Finding
A PREA audit report for Dooly State Prison states the prison was originally built in 1993 and opened for inmates in 1994.
Dooly inmate Rivas admitted orchestrating fraud scheme from inside prison Case detail
Flagler County Sheriff's Detective First Class Douglas traveled to Dooly State Prison and interviewed inmate Rivas, who admitted to orchestrating a fraud scheme and described how the fraud operation functioned from inside the Georgia prison system.
Timothy Sales reassigned from Dooly SP Warden to Macon SP Warden Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Timothy Sales, who had been Warden at Dooly State Prison, to Warden at Macon State Prison effective July 1, 2023.
DSP officer Roland Johnson arrested introducing 4 cellphones, 2 chargers Case detail
GDC's contraband arrest report states that on October 16, at Dooly State Prison, Officer Roland Johnson was arrested for attempting to introduce contraband to the facility by the Dooly County Sheriff's Office, and after conducting a search, security staff discovered 4 cellphones and 2 cellphone chargers.
Whittle v. Dooly State Prison dismissed without prejudice for failure to prosecute Case detail
In Whittle v. Dooly State Prison (M.D. Ga., 2023-07-28), pro se plaintiff Thomas Andrew Whittle's Section 1983 civil rights complaint was dismissed without prejudice for failure to prosecute after he twice failed to respond to court orders regarding the filing fee.
Williams sentenced to 120 months Legal fact
On August 25, 2026, U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal entered judgment against Julius Deshawn Williams on Count 1: 120 months imprisonment, $100 mandatory assessment fee, and 5 years supervised release.
Prison fight and stabbing involving seven inmates at Dooly State Prison Case detail
The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed a prison fight involving seven inmates and a stabbing happened at Dooly State Prison on a Thursday.
Gregory Sampson promoted from Dooly warden to Macon warden Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Gregory Sampson, Warden at Dooly State Prison, to Warden at Macon State Prison, effective February 1, 2025.
Dooly State Prison housing configuration Finding
A GDC facility-description document states Dooly State Prison's housing consists of nine living units with 24 triple-bunked cells on the bottom range and double-bunked cells on the top range at 120 beds per dorm, plus one open living unit with four separate living areas containing 368 beds, a 71-bed isolation/segregation unit, and a double-bunked Fast Track Unit housing 256 beds.
Roadifer attacked by another inmate July 3, 2023 at Dooly, per NIA account Case detail
A National Incarceration Association (joinnia.com) article reported that Chad Roadiger (referred to elsewhere as Chad Taylor Roadifer), Leah's older brother, was housed at Dooly State Correctional Facility on July 3, 2023, when he was, reportedly, attacked by another inmate, receiving repeated blunt force trauma to his head as well as strangulation. Source text: "Chad Roadiger, Leah's older brother by six years, was housed at Dooly State Correctional Facility on July 3, 2023, when he was, reportedly, attacked by another inmate. Chad received repeated blunt force trauma to his head as well as strangulation, presumably in the form of a choke hold while being"
Dooly State Prison last renovated in 2007 with new housing unit Finding
The PREA audit report states the facility was last renovated with the addition and construction of an inmate housing unit in 2007.
Dooly State Prison designed facility capacity listed as 1,689 Statistic
A PREA audit report for Dooly State Prison lists the designed facility capacity as 1,689.
1,689 beds
Rivas claimed staff aware of inmate fraud scams; used proceeds to buy marijuana in prison Finding
During the interview, Rivas stated that other inmates ran similar scams and claimed that correctional staff were aware of the activity. Rivas also claimed that he used proceeds from the fraud to purchase marijuana inside the prison.
Dooly State Prison LCS Project procurement awarded in FY2023 Policy
The Georgia Procurement Registry (DOAS) lists event GDC-23-DOOLY-SP-006, titled 'Dooly State Prison LCS Project,' as an RFQ with Event Status 'Awarded,' Purchase Type 'Open Market,' Fiscal Year 2023, with buyer agency 40900 Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission.
Operation Ghost Guard: nearly 50 GDC officers indicted February 11, 2016 Case detail
The FBI's Atlanta Division announced on February 11, 2016 the results of a public corruption investigation called Operation Ghost Guard, with nearly 50 current and former Georgia Department of Corrections officers indicted that day for accepting bribes to protect what they believed to be drug shipments, after 15 corrections officers, 19 civilians and 19 inmates were indicted the prior month.
Powell v. Dooly State Prison dismissed sua sponte under Rule 41(b) Legal fact
A court order of dismissal in Powell v. Dooly State Prison (M.D. Ga., 2026-02-20) states the court 'may dismiss an action sua sponte under Rule 41(b) for failure to prosecute or failure to obey a court order' after plaintiff Joshua E. Powell failed to respond to a show-cause order.
$700,000 settlement for Dooly inmate death Statistic
A $700,000 settlement was reached in 2023 after James Yarbrough died in August 2020 of ketoacidosis at Dooly State Prison following months of uncontrolled diabetes, in a case alleging medical malpractice.
$700,000 USD
Shakedown after stabbing fight confiscates contraband cell phones Case detail
A stabbing fight among seven inmates at Dooly State Prison led to a facility shakedown during which some contraband cell phones were confiscated; GDC said all seven inmates sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Former cadet pleads guilty to attempting to smuggle meth into Dooly State Prison Case detail
A former correctional officer cadet pleaded guilty in federal court to attempting to bring more than a half kilogram of 100% pure methamphetamine into Dooly State Prison for an inmate.
DOJ visited Dooly State Prison in 2022 and 2023 Case detail
DOJ's Civil Rights Division investigation visited Dooly State Prison in 2022 and 2023 as part of its investigation of Georgia prisons.
Dooly State Prison rated bed capacity 1,689 with population 1,672 at audit Statistic
The same PREA audit report states, in a separate narrative section, that the facility has a rated bed capacity of 1,689 beds and that the general population inmate housing units consist of 9 living units with 120 inmate beds per unit. The current population listed at the time of the on-site portion of the audit was 1,672 inmates.
1,672 inmates vs. 1,689 rated bed capacity
Rivas serving four years in GDC, scheduled for 2027 release Case detail
Rivas is serving four years in the Georgia Department of Corrections for charges including aggravated assault, theft by taking, and robbery by sudden snatching, and was scheduled for release in 2027.
AJC homicide list records 6 homicides at Dooly State Prison Statistic
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's compiled homicide list for Georgia prisons records 'Dooly State Prison: 6 homicides.'
6 homicides
FBI: corruption found in 11 of 35 GDC facilities Finding
FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge J. Britt Johnson said that in the Operation Ghost Guard investigation, 'criminal and corrupt activities were found in 11 of the 35 state corrections facilities.'
Two arrested in high-speed chase en route to drone contraband drop at Dooly Case detail
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office arrested two men after a high-speed chase and accusations they were headed to make a drone contraband drop at Dooly State Prison in Unadilla on April 8, 2026.
Inmate charged in phone fraud impersonating deputy Case detail
The Flagler County Sheriff's Office obtained an arrest warrant for Abraham Rivas, 32, incarcerated at Dooly State Prison, for a phone-based fraud scheme impersonating a Flagler County Sheriff's Office deputy targeting a local resident.
Nine inmates hospitalized after Dooly State Prison altercation Case detail
GDC confirmed to CBS News Atlanta that an altercation involving numerous inmates happened at Dooly State Prison, sending nine inmates to local hospitals; seven of the nine had since returned to the prison and no staff were injured.
Cadet found with meth during June 24, 2024 entry security check Case detail
Williams was a cadet undergoing training to become a correctional officer at Dooly State Prison. On June 24, 2024, GDC officers conducting the required entry security check and shakedown found four packages containing methamphetamine wrapped in black tape hidden on him.
Dooly included in DOJ review of 24 facilities' incident data Methodology note
DOJ's analysis of GDC incident data covering a specified period included Dooly State Prison among the 24 facilities reviewed, out of approximately 34 prisons in the state.
Dooly State Prison security/custody levels: Medium, Close, Minimum Finding
A PREA audit report for Dooly State Prison lists facility security/custody levels as Medium, Close and Minimum.
Dimitri Merci Jackson died January 3, 2023 at Dooly SP of stab wound to chest Case detail
The AJC's compiled homicide list records that Dimitri Merci Jackson, 36, died January 3, 2023 at Dooly State Prison of a stab wound to the chest.
GDC statewide COVID-19 count as of March 30, 2020 Statistic
GDC reported that, as of March 30, 2020, it had eleven reported positive COVID-19 cases and one death in the offender population statewide, and eleven reported positive COVID-19 cases among staff.
11 positive cases (offenders)
Drone-drop suspects had marijuana, cell phones, drone; intended Dooly drop Case detail
Investigators said marijuana, multiple cell phones, a drone, and items commonly used in 'prison drop' operations were found, and the driver, Bonner, told authorities they had intended to make a drop at Dooly State Prison in Unadilla.
Correctional officer charged with murder at Augusta State Medical Prison Case detail
Roderick Hayes, an inmate at Augusta State Medical Prison, was killed; correctional officer Lloyd Hopkins was charged with felony murder, aggravated assault, and violation of oath by a public officer; inmates Brendon Moore and Andy Ulysse were charged with felony murder and aggravated assault.
Statewide GDC lockdown after Dooly State Prison fight Case detail
All of the Georgia Department of Corrections' facilities around the state were placed on lockdown after a fight sent nine inmates to the hospital, in an altercation involving numerous inmates at Dooly State Prison.
NeQueva Nicholson promoted to Deputy Warden of Administration at Dooly Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of NeQueva Nicholson, Captain at Dooly State Prison, to Deputy Warden of Administration at Dooly State Prison, effective January 16, 2025.
June 2023 gang fight at Dooly during STG sergeant vacancy Case detail
DOJ's findings report states that a gang fight broke out at Dooly State Prison on June 23, 2023, around the same time the facility's STG (Special/Security Threat Group) sergeant position had been vacant for three months.
Conflicting PREA description: Dooly as 762-capacity medium security facility Finding
The same PREA audit report, in a different boilerplate section, describes Dooly State Prison as a medium security level, 762 inmate capacity facility consisting of 9 inmate housing units and one open living unit with 4 separate living areas. This conflicts with the 1,689 capacity figure in the same report.
June 23, 2023 gang fight at Dooly coincided with three-month STG sergeant vacancy Case detail
On June 23, 2023, a gang fight broke out at Dooly State Prison, and around the same time the STG (Security Threat Group) sergeant's position had been vacant for three months.
Brian Lee Wainwright died January 4, 2024 at Dooly SP, classified homicide Case detail
The AJC's compiled homicide list records Brian Lee Wainwright, 59, died January 4, 2024 at Dooly State Prison, classified as homicide, with no death certificate yet available.
GDC suspended visitation and non-essential offender movement in March 2020 Policy
GDC's COVID-19 response press release stated that visitation was suspended through April 10, 2020 and that non-essential offender movement across GDC facilities was suspended effective March 3, 2020.
Man arrested on Dooly grounds with contraband; charged with meth trafficking Case detail
A man was arrested for contraband on the grounds of Dooly State Prison after being spotted on the facility's grounds on a Sunday; GDOC officials said Isiah Jaquez Riden was found with contraband and charged with trading with inmates without consent of warden or superintendent and trafficking in methamphetamine.
Former Dooly officer charged with bribery and drug trafficking Case detail
Brandon Watkins, 24, of Warner Robins, formerly a correctional officer at Dooly State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions and with attempted drug trafficking.
CBS News Atlanta timestamp for Dooly altercation report Methodology note
CBS News Atlanta's article on the Dooly State Prison altercation that sent inmates to the hospital and led to a statewide GDC lockdown was published/timestamped May 22, 2026.
Jerry Jefferson promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly Policy
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Jerry Jefferson to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly State Prison effective January 1, 2022.
Mid-June 2022 Gangster Disciples vs. Bloods fight at Dooly Case detail
DOJ's findings report states that on a morning in mid-June 2022, a large gang fight between Gangster Disciples and Bloods erupted at Dooly State Prison, involving gang members from multiple housing units; four windows were broken and seven incarcerated people were transported to outside hospitals for lacerations and puncture wounds.
Russell Hollman promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly SP effective Feb 16, 2019 Case detail
GDC Interim Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Russell Hollman to deputy warden of security at Dooly State Prison effective February 16, 2019.
June 2022 Gangster Disciples–Bloods fight at Dooly injured seven, broke four windows Case detail
On a morning in mid-June 2022, a large gang fight between Gangster Disciples and Bloods erupted at Dooly State Prison, involving gang members from multiple housing units. Four windows were broken in the melee, and seven incarcerated people were transported to outside hospitals for lacerations and puncture wounds.
Raquon Ja'Veyonte Tucker died March 22, 2024 at Dooly SP of blunt force head trauma Case detail
The AJC's compiled homicide list records Raquon Ja'Veyonte Tucker, 26, died March 22, 2024 at Dooly State Prison of complications of blunt force head trauma.
Chad Roadiger's sister received little to no response from Dooly County DA Case detail
The joinnia.com article reported that months after Chad Roadiger's death, his sister Leah was still receiving little to no response from the Dooly County District Attorney's office as she sought answers.
Meth trafficking orchestrated from prison Quote
U.S. Attorney David H. Estes said Magnum Neely orchestrated a large-scale meth distribution operation from behind bars while serving a 10-year state sentence for violent crime.
GDC oversees 34 prisons housing nearly 47,000 felony offenders Statistic
CBS News Atlanta reported that GDC oversees 34 prisons across Georgia, housing nearly 47,000 felony offenders, in its report on the statewide lockdown following the Dooly State Prison altercation.
47,000 felony offenders
Kenneth Grace promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly Policy
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Kenneth Grace to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly State Prison effective December 1, 2022.
SART dismissed Dooly sexual assault allegation based on cell assignment Case detail
DOJ's findings report describes a Sexual Abuse Response Team (SART) investigation that concluded an individual's allegation that his cellmate at Dooly State Prison sexually assaulted him must be false because the two men were assigned to different cells, apparently failing to consider other circumstances.
SART rejected Dooly sexual assault allegation based on cell assignment alone Finding
A SART (Sexual Assault Response Team) investigation concluded that an individual's allegation that his cellmate at Dooly State Prison sexually assaulted him must be false because the two men were assigned to different cells, apparently failing to consider the possibility that the cellmate was not in his assigned cell.
Carlos Omar Soldiew-Acosta died June 22, 2024 at Dooly SP of blunt force trauma; possibly dead 24+ hours before found Case detail
The AJC's compiled homicide list records that Carlos Omar Soldiew-Acosta, 38, died June 22, 2024 at Dooly State Prison of complications due to blunt force trauma, and that the coroner told a TV station he may have been dead for more than 24 hours before his body was found.
Dooly absent from GDC CY2025 daily population summary Data gap
A search of GDC's 'Average Counts - Summary' daily population report for CY2025 for 'Dooly' and 'Dooly State Prison' returned no match, indicating the facility is not listed in that published population summary.
King v. Dooly State Prison: pro se plaintiff had three strikes Legal fact
In King v. Dooly State Prison, the court noted pro se plaintiff Issac King, Jr. had 'brought at least three civil actions which were dismissed and count as strikes under 28 U.S.C. § 1915(g).'
GDC operates 34 prisons statewide Statistic
CBS News Atlanta reported that the Georgia Department of Corrections oversees 34 prisons across Georgia.
34 prisons
Calvin Reeves promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Calvin Reeves to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly State Prison, effective January 1, 2023.
Dooly among facilities in April 26, 2023 DOJ site visits Case detail
DOJ's findings report lists Dooly State Prison among the facilities DOJ conducted site visits to on April 26, 2023.
Zeary Davis died September 26, 2024 at Dooly SP; coroner said stabbed to death Case detail
The AJC's compiled homicide list records that Zeary Davis, 31, died September 26, 2024 at Dooly State Prison, and a county coroner told a TV station he was stabbed to death; no death certificate was yet available.
Dooly absent from GDC Board of Corrections April 2025 minutes Data gap
A search of the GDC Board of Corrections April 2025 meeting minutes for 'Dooly' and 'Unadilla' returned no match.
King complaint names medical staff and Wellpath Case detail
Issac King, Jr.'s complaint named 'Medical Unit', 'Wellpath', 'P.A. doctor Mr. Vevinal', 'P.A. Woodar', and 'Nurse B.B.' as defendants over a bunk-fall mouth injury and lack of medical treatment.
Inmate death at Dooly State Prison, no foul play suspected Case detail
The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed an inmate died at Dooly State Prison on a Sunday, and authorities did not suspect foul play at that time.
Lameka Kendrick promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Lameka Kendrick, Unit Manager at Macon State Prison, to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly State Prison, effective August 16, 2026.
Glen Johnson appointed Dooly warden effective January 1, 2015 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the appointment of Glen Johnson as Warden of Dooly State Prison effective January 1, 2015.
Dooly inmate's mother: prisoners fear dying from COVID-19, starvation, or each other Quote
Carol Mobley said her son, a Dooly State Prison inmate, told her "they are all going to die in there. Either by COVID-19, starvation or turning on each other," and that tensions and testosterone were causing inmates to turn on one another.
GDC March death list omitted Raquon Tucker's death at Dooly SP Data gap
The AJC reported that GDC's March list of deaths did not include 26-year-old Raquon Tucker, who was incarcerated at Dooly State Prison when he died March 22 after being transported to an Albany hospital, with cause of death pending a toxicology report and completion of a Department of Corrections investigation, according to the county's deputy coroner Brett Walls.
Nine former/current DSP officers charged in Operation Ghost Guard Case detail
The Union-Recorder reported that nine former or current correctional officers at Dooly State Prison were charged with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions and with attempted drug trafficking: Chasity Coleman, 22, of Cordele; Angela Dinkins, 25, of Morrow; Benjamin Floyd, 23, of Hawkinsville; Jaleel Green, 23, of Oglethorpe; Cortavius Henderson, 23, of Cordele; Tiawanna McDonald, 24, of Centerville; Brandon Mullino, 34, of Hawkinsville; Alice Whitfield, 24, of Unadilla; and Branden Wiley, 24, of Cordele.
Dooly absent from GDC Board of Corrections June 2023 minutes Data gap
A search of the GDC Board of Corrections June 2023 meeting minutes for 'Dooly' and 'locking' returned no match.
Source
GDC withheld identity in Dooly inmate death Data gap
41NBC reported that GDC confirmed an inmate died at Dooly State Prison on a Sunday, that GDC did not immediately reveal the inmate's identity, and that authorities did not suspect foul play at that time.
Inmate Raquon Tucker found dead at Dooly State Prison Case detail
GDC confirmed inmate Raquon Tucker was found dead on Friday, March 22, at Dooly State Prison. The body was turned over to the county coroner and will be transported to the GBI Medical Examiner's Office to determine the official cause of death. The death is being investigated by GDC's Office of Professional Standards.
Dooly staffing and population at 2015 warden appointment Statistic
At the time of Glen Johnson's appointment as warden effective January 1, 2015, Dooly State Prison housed medium-security male offenders and Johnson was to oversee 272 staff members and 1,600 offenders.
272 staff members vs. 1,600 offenders
Charles Hudson promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly SP effective Aug 16, 2024 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Charles Hudson, Chief of Security at Macon State Prison, to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly State Prison effective August 16, 2024.
Georgia prisoners reported unsanitary conditions and only soap against COVID-19 Finding
Prisoners across Georgia, relaying their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic through phone or email interviews or via their loved ones, talked of unsanitary conditions and said they had been given little more to ward off the virus than bars of soap.
Two drones, controller, and 394 grams of tobacco found in vehicle near Dooly SP Case detail
A GDC contraband report stated that a search of a vehicle occupied by civilians Dontacious Patrick and Solomon Thompkins near Dooly State Prison, following a GDC K9 unit-initiated Houston County Sheriff's Office traffic stop, found 2 drones, a drone controller, and 394 grams of tobacco.
Hobbs v. Dooly State Prison: failure-to-protect claim against Sgt. Glover proceeds Legal fact
In Hobbs v. Dooly State Prison, a federal magistrate judge found that an inmate had made a colorable constitutional claim against Sergeant Glover, a tactical officer at DSP, sufficient to proceed to service, based on a failure-to-protect allegation.
Eleven inmates hurt in Dooly State Prison altercation Case detail
According to a press release sent by the Georgia Department of Corrections, a total of 11 inmates were hurt after "an altercation occurred between several inmates" at Dooly State Prison on a Friday; nine inmates were taken to local hospitals, and two were life-flighted.
Raquon Tucker was serving seven years for burglary out of Ben Hill County Case detail
WALB reported that Raquon Tucker, who died at Dooly State Prison, was serving seven years for burglary out of Ben Hill County with a maximum release date of November 2024.
Statewide lockdown after gang-related fights, including at Dooly Case detail
A GDC spokesperson said fights at Smith, Wilcox, Hays, and Valdosta State Prisons resulted in five inmates sent to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries on a Wednesday, and early the following Thursday morning six Dooly State Prison inmates were also taken to local hospitals, including three via Life Flight, with non-life-threatening injuries from another altercation.
Lee Major promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly SP effective Jan 16, 2025 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Lee Major, Unit Manager at the Special Management Unit, to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly State Prison, effective January 16, 2025.
GDC lists Dooly State Prison capacity at 1,702, opened 1994, medium security Policy
GDC's current public facility page for Dooly State Prison lists CAPACITY: 1702, OPENED: 1994, SECURITY LEVEL: MEDIUM, and CONSTRUCTED: 1993.
Two Dooly SP officers arrested same day for bringing in contraband bundles Case detail
A GDC contraband report stated that GDC arrested two Dooly State Prison officers, Conswaila Spikes and Erika Curry, on the same day for bringing in bundles of contraband wrapped in black tape, Spikes by the Dodge County Sheriff's Office and Curry by the Dooly County Sheriff's Office.
Edvalson v. McClairen: DSP inmate sexually assaulted and beaten by cellmate for ~3 hours Legal fact
In Edvalson v. McClairen, a federal magistrate judge's order recounts that a Dooly State Prison inmate's cellmate 'sexually assaulted and severely beat' him, in an assault that 'lasted approximately three hours.'
GDC press release: 11 offenders required outside medical treatment Quote
According to a GDC press release, after assessments by facility medical staff, "11 offenders require outside medical treatment for injuries sustained during the altercation" at Dooly State Prison; GDC said nine inmates were taken to local hospitals and two were life-flighted for non-life-threatening injuries.
Allison Jones promoted to Deputy Warden of Administration at Dooly Policy
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Allison Jones to Deputy Warden of Administration at Dooly State Prison, effective September 1st.
Dooly fight followed earlier fight a week prior Case detail
The Dooly State Prison incident in which six inmates were hospitalized came just over a week after another fight at the facility left five inmates injured on a Monday.
Dooly State Prison visitation hours: 9AM–3PM weekends and state holidays Policy
GDC's regular visitation hours at Dooly State Prison are 9:00AM to 3:00PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and State Holidays.
James Hinton reassigned to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly SP Policy
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the reassignment of James Hinton to Deputy Warden of Security at Dooly State Prison effective November 1, 2014.
Dooly facility page contains no warden information Data gap
A search of GDC's Dooly State Prison location page for 'Warden' and 'warden' returned no match, indicating the page does not name a warden.
Two inmates life-flighted after Dooly altercation Case detail
41NBC reported that GDC said nine inmates were taken to local hospitals, and two were life-flighted, for treatment for non-life-threatening injuries from the Dooly State Prison altercation.
GDC attributed incidents to gang activity and locked down all facilities Policy
GDC said all of its incidents were believed to be gang-related, and out of an abundance of caution, all GDC facilities were placed on lockdown until further notice.
749 Dooly inmates on audit date admitted prior to Aug 20, 2012 (PREA Cycle 2) Statistic
A PREA audit of Dooly State Prison recorded that the number of inmates on the date of the audit who were admitted to the facility prior to August 20, 2012 was 749.
749 inmates
Dooly housing: nine living units, triple/double-bunked cells, 368-bed open unit, segregation unit Policy
Dooly State Prison's housing consists of nine living units, with the bottom range being 24 triple-bunked cells and the top range double-bunked cells at 120 beds per dorm, plus one open living unit with four separate living areas containing 368 beds, and one isolation/segregation unit. GDC states operating capacity is 1702.
Dooly Correctional Institution opened in FY1994 among five new prisons Finding
GDC's FY1994 annual report states that five new prisons were opened in FY94, naming Calhoun, Dooly, Macon, Smith and Wilcox Correctional Institutions.
Source
Timothy Sales promoted to Warden at Dooly State Prison Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Timothy Sales to Warden at Dooly State Prison, effective March 1, 2023.
Four of six Dooly injured inmates returned to facility during lockdown Case detail
GDC said four of the six inmates injured at Dooly State Prison had returned to the facility while the statewide lockdown was in effect.
PREA Cycle 2 audit found 0 standards not met Finding
GDC's PREA audit of Dooly State Prison found 0 standards not met.
2014 PREA report: Dooly added kitchen/laundry mirrors and relocated medical shelving Policy
GDC's 2014 PREA Annual Report states that at Dooly State Prison, mirrors were installed in the bakery area of the kitchen and behind the washers and dryers in the laundry area, and shelving was relocated in the medical unit that was obstructing view.
Dooly SP Fast Track addition of 256 beds delivered 8/15/2008 Statistic
GDC's FY2008 annual report's Bed Space Plan table lists a 'Dooly SP FT' (Fast Track) addition of 256 beds with a delivery date of 8/15/2008.
256 beds
King v. Dooly State Prison dismissed without prejudice Legal fact
In King v. Dooly State Prison, the case was dismissed without prejudice because the plaintiff failed to follow the court's orders and failed to prosecute the action.
Dooly absent from FY2023 amended budget public safety section Data gap
A search of HB 18 (FY 2023A) Public Safety and Criminal Justice appropriations for 'Dooly' and 'Locking Control' returned no match.
Dooly State Prison population approximately 1,683 male offenders (2023) Statistic
As Warden, Timothy Sales was responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 1,683 male offenders at Dooly State Prison, per GDC's March 2023 announcement.
1,683 male offenders
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 on a Thursday, prompting a statewide lockdown, according to the Georgia Department of Corrections.
PREA Cycle 2 audit found 4 standards exceeded Finding
GDC's PREA audit of Dooly State Prison found 4 standards exceeded.
2016 PREA report lists no significant initiatives at Dooly Finding
GDC's 2016 PREA Annual Report lists "Dooly SP - No significant initiatives" in its facility-level section on PREA-related initiatives.
Dooly SP Fast Track unit opened as probation facility to add capacity Policy
GDC's FY2008 annual report states that triple bunking will increase probation bed capacity at various detention centers and by opening the Dooly State Prison Fast Track unit as a probation facility.
Inmate Carlito Soldiew-Acosta died at Dooly State Prison Case detail
An inmate who was serving time for a murder in Toombs County, Carlito Soldiew-Acosta, who was charged with murder in the death of Marie Warnock in Lyons, died at Dooly State Prison.
Dooly absent from FY2025 amended capital projects and bonds budget Data gap
A search of HB 67 (FY 2025A) Capital Projects and Bonds appropriations for 'Dooly' and 'Unadilla' returned no match.
Mark Agbaosi promoted to Warden at Dooly State Prison Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Mark Agbaosi, Deputy Warden of Security at Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison, to Warden at Dooly State Prison, effective February 16, 2025.
Dooly fight contained to two dorms; seven inmates returned to facility Case detail
The Dooly State Prison fight was contained to two dorms, and all involved inmates were taken to a local hospital with 'non-life-threatening injuries'; as of a Friday afternoon, seven inmates had returned to the facility.
Conflicting PREA Cycle 2 description: rated capacity 1,702, nine buildings with 48 cells per unit Finding
The PREA Cycle 2 audit report states, in a separate section, that Dooly State Prison has a rated capacity of 1,702 offenders, with housing consisting of nine buildings, each divided into two separate units with 48 cells per unit. This conflicts with the 1,678 designated capacity listed elsewhere in the same report.
Dooly officer turnover rose from 20% (2010) to 34% (2013) Trend
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 2013 report "State Corrections and Community Officers" lists Dooly State Prison's officer turnover rate as 20% in 2010, 26% in 2011, 32% in 2012, and 34% in 2013.
Dooly SP leadership roster as of October 2026 Policy
GDC's Facility Directory List lists Dooly State Prison's leadership as Warden Mark Agbaosi, Deputy Warden Security Lee Major, Deputy Warden Security Lameka Kendrick, Deputy Warden C&T Mable Chaney, and Deputy Warden Admin. Nequeva Nicholson.
Dooly absent from 2022AB General Obligation Bond project list Data gap
A search of the GSFIC 2022AB General Obligation Bonds project list for 'Dooly' and 'Unadilla' returned no match.
GDC suspends statewide visitation through April 10, 2020 Policy
Following a directive from Governor Kemp, GDC suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide, with the suspension in effect through April 10, 2020.
Statewide lockdown after Dooly altercation Policy
A GDC spokesperson said all GDC facilities were placed on lockdown 'until further notice' after the Dooly State Prison altercation, 'out of an abundance of caution.'
Aimee Smith reassigned as Dooly warden effective December 16, 2018 Case detail
GDC Interim Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the reassignment of Aimee Smith to warden of Dooly State Prison effective December 16, 2018.
PREA Cycle 2: designated capacity 1,678, current population 1,666 Statistic
A PREA audit report for Dooly State Prison lists Designated Facility Capacity as 1,678 and Current Population of Facility as 1,666.
1,666 inmates vs. 1,678 designated facility capacity
FY2014: kitchen floor replacement at Dooly and Emanuel PDC cost $256,000 Statistic
GDC's FY2014 Annual Fiscal Report states that the department completed design and replacement of the kitchen floors at Emanuel Probation Detention Center and Dooly State Prison, with total cost of $256,000, to provide staff and inmates a safe and healthy food preparation environment.
$256,000
Dooly SP named among 17 Georgia prisons in DOJ unconstitutional conditions findings Legal fact
WALB reported that Dooly State Prison was among the South Georgia prisons named in the DOJ's investigation findings, alongside Autry, Calhoun, Coffee, Pulaski, Telfair, Valdosta, and Wilcox State Prisons.
Dooly absent from 2019AB General Obligation Bond project list Data gap
A search of the State of Georgia final project list for 2019AB bonds for 'Dooly' and 'Unadilla' returned no match.
Visitation suspension maintained mail, phone, and GOAL device access Policy
During the statewide visitation suspension effective through April 10, 2020, GDC stated offenders would continue to have access to their loved ones via mail, phone calls and GOAL devices.
Visitation suspended at Dooly, Washington, Ware, and Hancock state prisons Policy
Following the altercation at Dooly State Prison, GDC announced that Dooly, Washington, Ware and Hancock state prisons would not hold visitation from Saturday, May 22 to Monday, May 25, while other state facilities would hold regular visitation hours.
Dooly staffing and population at 2018 warden reassignment Statistic
At the time of Aimee Smith's reassignment as warden effective December 16, 2018, she was responsible for overseeing approximately 225 staff members and 1,683 male offenders at Dooly State Prison.
225 staff members vs. 1,683 male offenders
PREA Cycle 2: 235 staff employed with inmate contact Statistic
GDC's second PREA audit of Dooly State Prison states the number of staff currently employed by the facility who may have contact with inmates was 235.
235 staff
Mental health program expansions completed at Dooly and three other prisons FY2019–FY2020 Policy
GDC's FY2021 Annual Fiscal Report states that between FY2019 and FY2020, mental health program expansions were completed at Smith, Dooly, Telfair and Ware State Prisons.
Carlito Omar Soldiew-Acosta found dead in isolation cell at Dooly SP, deceased 24+ hours Case detail
Southeast Georgia Today reported that Dooly County Coroner James Hudson confirmed that Carlito Omar Soldiew-Acosta was found in his isolation cell at Dooly State Prison in Unadilla and had been deceased for at least 24 hours if not longer, with his body turned over to the GBI crime lab and foul play suspected.
Dooly absent from 2023A/B General Obligation Bond project list Data gap
A search of the State of Georgia General Obligation Bonds 2023A and 2023B project list for 'Dooly' and 'Unadilla' returned no match.
Dimitri Merci Jackson homicide at Dooly State Prison, January 3, 2023 Case detail
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of Georgia prison homicides reports Dimitri Merci Jackson, 36, died January 3, 2023 at Dooly State Prison of a stab wound to the chest.
Prior statewide lockdown after gang-related altercations at multiple prisons Case detail
WGXA reported that all GDC facilities were previously placed on lockdown following a string of 'gang-related' altercations at Dooly, Smith, Wilcox, Hays and Valdosta state prisons the month before the report was published.
Sheneca King promoted to deputy warden of security at Dooly Case detail
GDC Interim Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Sheneca King to deputy warden of security at Dooly State Prison effective February 16, 2019.
Aimee Smith reassigned from Warden at Dooly SP to McRae Women's Facility effective March 1, 2023 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Aimee Smith from Warden at Dooly State Prison to Warden at McRae Women's Facility effective March 1, 2023.
GDC-FBI corruption probe indicted 16 current and 23 former GDC officers plus GEO officers Case detail
A GDC press release said federal indictments were handed down for 16 current GDC Correctional Officers, 23 former GDC Correctional Officers, four current GEO Group Correctional Officers, and three former GEO Group Correctional Officers, as part of a joint GDC-FBI investigation into staff corruption.
Soldiew-Acosta was serving life sentence for December 2015 felony murder of Marie Warnock Case detail
Southeast Georgia Today reported that Carlito Omar Soldiew-Acosta was serving a life sentence for the December 2015 felony murder of Marie Warnock, and that he pleaded guilty to malice murder in March 2019.
Dooly absent from 2021AB General Obligation Bond project list Data gap
A search of the GSFIC 2021AB General Obligation Bonds project list for 'Dooly' and 'Unadilla' returned no match.
Brian Lee Wainwright homicide at Dooly State Prison, January 4, 2024 Case detail
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of Georgia prison homicides reports Brian Lee Wainwright, 59, died January 4, 2024 at Dooly State Prison, classified as homicide, with no death certificate on file.
July 17 drone contraband drop attempt at Dooly Case detail
On July 17, two individuals were found attempting to drop a drone, controller, propellers, drone batteries, marijuana, tobacco, cellphones and chargers near Dooly State Prison; Antonette Brooks and Zacarious Sanders were arrested.
Charles Hudson promoted from Dooly Deputy Warden to Warden at Calhoun SP effective June 1, 2026 Case detail
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.
GDC-FBI arrests involved employees from eight GDC prisons including Dooly Case detail
A GDC press release said this round of arrests in the GDC-FBI corruption investigation involved employees from eight GDC state prisons and one GEO Group prison, and that the GDC facilities included Autry, Baldwin, Dodge, Dooly, Georgia Diagnostic & Classification, and Hancock.
Altercation involving three inmates at Dooly SP; one hospitalized Case detail
GDC was investigating an 'altercation' involving three inmates at Dooly State Prison that GDC confirmed happened on Sunday, June 7; one inmate was taken to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries and has since returned to the facility.
Raquon Ja'Veyonte Tucker homicide at Dooly State Prison, March 22, 2024 Case detail
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of Georgia prison homicides reports Raquon Ja'Veyonte Tucker, 26, died March 22, 2024 at Dooly State Prison of complications of blunt force head trauma.
PREA audit of Dooly: 41 standards met, 0 not met Finding
GDC's PREA audit of Dooly State Prison found 41 standards met and 0 standards not met, with 0 standards exceeded.
PREA Cycle 3 final report submitted 02/15/2021 Finding
A PREA audit of Dooly State Prison has a Date Final Report Submitted of 02/15/2021.
More than 45 GDC and contract officers charged in seven federal indictments Legal fact
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia said more than 45 current and former Georgia Department of Corrections officers and contract correctional officers were charged in seven separate federal indictments with smuggling contraband into prisons and accepting bribe payments in exchange for providing protection for drug deals.
Board of Corrections March 2022 minutes discuss contraband arrest data including Dooly Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections' meeting minutes record that Mr. Nix discussed probationer and civilian contraband arrests data collected from November 27, 2021 to present, and the total arrests for facilities including Dooly among Baldwin, Calhoun, Hays, Johnson and Macon.
Carlos Omar Soldiew-Acosta homicide at Dooly State Prison, June 22, 2024 Case detail
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of Georgia prison homicides reports Carlos Omar Soldiew-Acosta, 38, died June 22, 2024 at Dooly State Prison of complications due to blunt force trauma, and that the coroner told a TV station he may have been dead for more than 24 hours before his body was found.
Corruption operation totaled charges against approximately 130 people Statistic
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia said that in total, the extensive operation involving corruption in the Georgia Department of Corrections had resulted in charges against approximately 130 prison employees, inmates, and non-incarcerated co-conspirators.
130 people charged
Allen Ross listed as Deputy Warden of Administration at Dooly SP in May 2017 Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections' meeting minutes of its May 2017 meeting list Allen Ross as Deputy Warden of Administration at Dooly State Prison among attendees.
Zeary Davis homicide at Dooly State Prison, September 26, 2024 Case detail
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of Georgia prison homicides reports Zeary Davis, 31, died September 26, 2024 at Dooly State Prison, and that a county coroner told a TV station he was stabbed to death, with no death certificate on file.
PREA audit describes Dooly housing units Finding
A PREA audit of Dooly State Prison states the facility consists of 9 inmate housing units and one open living unit with 4 separate living areas.
PREA Cycle 3: facility age 27 years, total rated capacity 1,706 Statistic
A PREA audit final report for Dooly State Prison lists the Age of Facility as 27 Years and Total Facility Rated Capacity as 1,706.
1,706 beds
Dooly SP food facility inspection scored 100 on 05/08/2026 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Public Health's inspection report for Dooly State Prison records an inspection date of 05/08/2026 and a current score of 100.
100 inspection score
PREA audit facility visit dates July 13-14, 2015 Methodology note
A PREA audit of Dooly State Prison was based on a facility visit of July 13-14, 2015.
Nine inmates stabbed multiple times in fight at Dooly SP; one critically injured Case detail
Nine inmates were stabbed multiple times in a fight at Dooly State Prison, leaving one critically injured on a Friday, according to Emergency Management Agency Director Don Williford.
Sergeant Tanesia Davis of Dooly SP honored with Commissioner's coin and Governor's proclamation Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections' May 2026 meeting minutes record that Mr. Ford assisted Commissioner Oliver with presenting a Commissioner's coin and a Governor's proclamation to Sergeant Tanesia Davis of Dooly State Prison.
Gregory Sampson reassigned to Warden at Dooly State Prison Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Gregory Sampson to Warden at Dooly State Prison, effective July 1, 2023.
About 11 inmates needed outside medical attention after Dooly SP altercation (GDC) Case detail
According to the Georgia Department of Corrections, about 11 inmates needed outside medical attention for injuries after an 'altercation' at Dooly State Prison. Nine inmates were taken to a local hospital after being stabbed multiple times, one in critical condition; the critically injured inmate was driven to a hospital in Macon, while two additional inmates with minor injuries were airlifted.
March 2015 Board minutes discuss Dooly SP farm location and acreage Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections' meeting minutes record that Mr. Wilson's presentation discussed Arrendale State Prison, Dooly State Prison, Joe Kennedy, Middle Georgia Region, Montgomery State Prison and Rogers State Prison farm locations and acreage.
Dooly State Prison population approximately 1,706 male offenders (2023) Statistic
As Warden, Gregory Sampson was responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 1,706 male offenders at Dooly State Prison, per GDC's June 2023 announcement.
1,706 male offenders
Dooly SP maintenance expenditures FY10-FY11: $1,346,774.83 total, 79.4% in-house Statistic
Georgia's State Auditor's 'Maintenance of State Prisons' report lists Dooly SP's maintenance expenditures as $615,303.88 in FY10, $731,470.95 in FY11, a 2-Year Total of $1,346,774.83, with $1,069,665.12 (79.4%) in-house and $277,109.71 (20.6%) contractor.
$1.3M USD
Burnessa Baker listed as Nurse at Dooly SP in May 2021 Board minutes Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections' meeting minutes list Burnessa Baker as Nurse at Dooly State Prison among attendees.
Joshua Parrott found dead at Dooly State Prison, January 12 Case detail
An inmate at Dooly State Prison was found dead on a Sunday following an altercation with another inmate, identified by GDC as a 45-year-old named Joshua Parrott, found dead around 6:15 a.m. on January 12.
Dooly SP physical capacity 1,704, 7 staff, Medium security, age 18 years (State Auditor) Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' report 'Maintenance of State Prisons' lists Dooly State Prison with a physical capacity of 1,704 inmates, 7 staff, security level Medium, and age 18 years, in the Southwest region. The same row lists gross square footage 305,404, cost per inmate $395.18, cost per square foot $2.20, 179 square feet per inmate, 243 inmates per staff, and 43,629 square feet per staff.
1,704 inmates
UCLA COVID Behind Bars records 1 homicide at Dooly SP in 2019, 0 in 2015-2018 and 2020 Statistic
GDC-provided data compiled by UCLA Law COVID Behind Bars Data Project recorded 1 homicide at Dooly State Prison in 2019, with 0 homicides recorded there in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, or 2020.
1 homicides
Dooly SP FY18 average standard bed count 1,590, physical bed count 1,645 (State Auditor) Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' report on the Georgia Department of Corrections lists Dooly State Prison as a Male Medium security facility with an FY18 average standard bed count of 1,590 and an FY18 average physical bed count of 1,645.
1,590 standard beds vs. 1,645 FY18 average physical bed count
Dooly SP had 20 GDC-custody deaths, 1.87% of all GDC deaths, 2015-2020 Statistic
Dooly State Prison had 20 deaths in Georgia Department of Corrections custody, 1.87% of all GDC deaths, over the 2015-2020 period covered by the UCLA COVID Behind Bars report.
20 deaths vs. 1.9 percent of all GDC deaths
Sources
111 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Abraham Rivas
[person]
Ahryanna Trice
[person]
Aimee Smith
[person]
Alice Whitfield
[person]
Allen Ross
[person]
Allison Jones
[person]
AMARK Foundation
[organization]
Andrea Wiederkehr
[person]
Andy Ulysse
[person]
Angela Dinkins
[person]
Antonette Brooks
[person]
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
[organization]
Augusta State Medical Prison
[facility]
Benjamin Floyd
[person]
Bloods
[organization]
Bonner
[person]
Branden Wiley
[person]
Brandon Mullino
[person]
Brandon Watkins
[person]
Brendon Moore
[person]
Brett Walls
[person]
Brian Kemp
[person]
Brian Lee Wainwright
[person]
Brian Owens
[person]
Burke County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Burnessa Baker
[person]
Calhoun State Prison
[facility]
Calvin Reeves
[person]
Carlito Soldiew-Acosta
[person]
Carlos Omar Soldiew-Acosta
[person]
Carol Mobley
[person]
CBS News Atlanta
[organization]
Chad Roadiger
[person]
Charles Hudson
[person]
Chasity Coleman
[person]
Conswaila Spikes
[person]
Cortavius Henderson
[person]
Davis v. Dooly State Prison
[case]
Dimitri Merci Jackson
[person]
Dodge County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
DOJ
[organization]
DOJ Civil Rights Division
[organization]
DOJ investigation of Georgia prisons
[operation]
Don Williford
[person]
Dontacious Patrick
[person]
Dooly County District Attorney's Office
[organization]
Dooly County Jail
[facility]
Dooly County Magistrate Court
[organization]
Dooly County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Dooly State Prison
[facility]
Drug Enforcement Administration
[organization]
Edvalson v. McClairen
[case]
Elise Merrell
[person]
Emanuel Probation Detention Center
[facility]
Erika Curry
[person]
Fanesia Smith
[person]
Federal Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Flagler County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Gangster Disciples
[organization]
GBI Crime Lab
[organization]
GEO Group
[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 Diagnostic and Classification Prison
[facility]
Georgia Procurement Registry
[organization]
Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission
[organization]
Glen Johnson
[person]
Gregory C. Dozier
[person]
Gregory Sampson
[person]
Hancock State Prison
[facility]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
Hobbs v. Dooly State Prison
[case]
Holly Collins
[person]
Houston County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Isaac King, Jr.
[person]
Isiah Jaquez Riden
[person]
Isiah Riden
[person]
Issac King, Jr.
[person]
J. Britt Johnson
[person]
Jaleel Green
[person]
James Hinton
[person]
James Hudson
[person]
James Yarbrough
[person]
Jerome Lester
[person]
Jerry Jefferson
[person]
Joshua E. Powell
[person]
Joshua Parrott
[person]
Julius Deshawn Williams Jr.
[person]
Kaila Williamson
[person]
Kayzer Woodyard
[person]
Keimon Ukponrefe
[person]
Kenneth Grace
[person]
King v. Dooly State Prison
[case]
Lameka Kendrick
[person]
Leah Roadiger
[person]
Lee Major
[person]
Lloyd Hopkins
[person]
Mable Chaney
[person]
Mable P. Wheeler
[person]
Macon State Prison
[facility]
Magnum Jelani Neely
[person]
Magnum Neely
[person]
Marie Warnock
[person]
Mark Agbaosi
[person]
McRae Women's Facility
[facility]
Monroe County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
National Incarceration Association
[organization]
NeQueva Nicholson
[person]
Operation Ghost Guard
[operation]
Patricia Gregory
[person]
Powell v. Dooly State Prison
[case]
Raquon Ja'Veyonte Tucker
[person]
Raquon Tucker
[person]
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Rivas
[person]
Roderick Hayes
[person]
Roland Johnson
[person]
Russell Hollman
[person]
Sergeant Glover
[person]
Sheneca King
[person]
Slyricus Xavier Winder
[person]
Smith State Prison
[facility]
Solomon Thompkins
[person]
Tanesia Davis
[person]
Thomas Andrew Whittle
[person]
Tiawanna McDonald
[person]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Timothy Sales
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia
[organization]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Georgia
[organization]
U.S. Department of Justice
[organization]
UCLA Law COVID Behind Bars Data Project
[organization]
Ware State Prison
[facility]
Wellpath
[organization]
Whittle v. Dooly State Prison
[case]
Wilcox State Prison
[facility]
Williams
[person]
Zacarious Sanders
[person]
Zeary Davis
[person]