Hancock State Prison (Sparta): capacity, deaths and violence, prosecutions, lawsuits, staffing, money and audits
Hancock 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 year 2024 to a $1.91 billion peak in fiscal year 2025, then fell back to $1.79 billion for fiscal year 2027 — but the money moved sharply toward health contracts, private beds and surveillance while education, reentry and food stayed near the floor. This page traces what the appropriations record actually shows, flags where GPS's own published figures (the 44% increase, the $634 million infusion, the 46-to-1 surveillance ratio) cannot be reconciled with the line items, and names the people whose deaths sit behind the cost-per-person arithmetic.
10,776 data points
Mortality & Deaths in Custody
Georgia's prison system counts its dead reliably and names them reluctantly. In 2024, 333 people died in Georgia Department of Corrections custody — the deadliest year on the state record — and the department's own single-methodology series matches independent tracking to within a handful of deaths in every year since 2015. What the numbers do not carry is cause, facility, or identity: since March 2024 the department has withheld cause of death, misclassification of homicides and overdoses is documented by the federal Department of Justice and by GPS's own research, and the state's coroner system is not required to autopsy anyone who dies in custody.
7,815 data points
Oversight & Accountability
Georgia operates one of the largest state prison systems in the country with no independent ombudsman, no inspector general for corrections, no outside monitors with a right of entry, and no oversight bill that has ever passed its legislature. Every accountability mechanism that exists — PREA compliance, internal investigations, mortality review, accreditation — is housed inside the Georgia Department of Corrections and answers to the Commissioner it is meant to check. The result, documented across 108 GPS research collections, is a system that reported 6 homicides in a month when its own records showed at least 18, that passed 273 consecutive sexual-abuse audits with zero failed standards while the U.S. Department of Justice found assault rampant, and that has faced a 93-page federal findings letter, 82 recommended remedies, a contempt order, and daily court fines without a single enforceable reform.
15,407 data points
Staffing Crisis
Georgia's prison system has been running at roughly half the correctional officer strength it is funded for since mid-2021, with vacancy rates above 70 percent at a cluster of the largest and most violent facilities. The state's own consultants called the situation an emergency at 20 of 34 prisons, and the U.S. Department of Justice found the resulting absence of supervision unconstitutional. Churn rather than hiring is the core problem: 82.7 percent of new officers leave within their first year, which means the workforce is effectively rebuilt every two years and never accumulates experience.
8,680 data points
Violence & Safety
A three-year federal investigation concluded in October 2024 that Georgia's prison system violates the Eighth Amendment by failing to protect incarcerated people from violence and sexual abuse, documenting 142 homicides between 2018 and 2023 and finding that gangs control housing units while officers are absent for hours at a time. Independent counts put the death toll far above the state's own figures, and the gap between them is itself part of the story: Georgia's violence data is produced by the same understaffed, unmonitored system it describes.
9,940 data points
Key Findings
The most impactful data from this research collection. Tap a card for the full finding and its source.
The finding
Hancock State Prison had a correctional officer vacancy rate of 74.35%, among the worst-staffed prisons in Georgia, according to an AJC investigation.
The finding
The AJC reported Hancock State Prison's correctional officer vacancy rate as 74.35%, based on August 2023 staffing reports, at a high-security facility holding 1,190 inmates.
The finding
As of August, Hancock State Prison, a high-security prison housing more than 1,100 men in 16 housing units, had just 49 correctional officers on staff, according to the AJC.
The finding
Hancock State Prison, a high-security facility, held 1,190 inmates as of August 2023, according to AJC reporting based on August 2023 reports.
The finding
District Attorney Barksdale, who prosecuted Bobby Ricks's murderers at Hancock State Prison in 2019, told the jury at trial that Ricks was "stabbed 11 times" after being stalked, ambushed and chased down by his own gang.
The finding
In January 2025, two prisoners at Hancock State Prison were found dead just feet apart after an incident described as gang-related violence.
The finding
Two inmates were slain at Hancock State Prison on Jan. 30 stemming from a gang violence incident, according to The Union-Recorder.
The finding
The GDC-FBI investigation's third phase resulted in federal indictments against 16 current GDC Correctional Officers, 23 former GDC Correctional Officers, four current GEO Group Correctional Officers, and others, involving employees from eight GDC state prisons and one GEO Group prison including Hancock.
The finding
Hancock County Chief Deputy Coroner Tonya Thurman told WGXA that 36-year-old Jacorey Pearson was found deceased in his cell around 5:00 a.m. on a Tuesday, marking the fourth inmate to die at Hancock State Prison that year. His body was turned over to the GBI Crime Lab for autopsy to determine the official cause of death.
The finding
GDC prisons were on a statewide lockdown after a string of "gang-related" fights left multiple inmates injured at Smith, Willcox, Dooly, Hays and Valdosta state prisons, as reported the week WGXA covered Jacorey Pearson's death at Hancock State Prison.
The finding
WGXA reported that Hancock State Prison inmate Steven Wood died after a fight with his cellmate on a Sunday. GDC identified Wood, and Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews said Wood was 55 years old and confirmed the altercation with his cellmate led to his death. Wood was serving life in prison with parole for murder out of Cherokee County.
The finding
Two inmates died following violent altercations at Hancock State Prison in Georgia on January 30, 2025, in an incident GDC described as gang-related; Prince Porter, 38, and William Holeman, 34, were killed during the altercation, which also hospitalized others, and the altercation occurred around 1:30 p.m. on January 30.
The finding
A news report described Hancock State Prison as having "a 73.5% correctional officer vacancy rate, with only 49 officers on duty at the time of the incident," referring to violent altercations at the prison.
The finding
The overall federal investigation of the Georgia Department of Corrections resulted in charges against approximately 130 prison employees, inmates, and non-incarcerated co-conspirators.
The finding
The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed the death of inmate Andre Weems at Hancock State Prison following an "altercation with multiple offenders" on a Tuesday. GDC said the death was under investigation by its Office of Professional Standards, and Weems was serving a life sentence with parole for murder out of Clayton County.
The finding
A 27-year-old inmate at Hancock State Prison was stabbed to death Wednesday afternoon, bringing the number killed at the prison to three in less than two months that year; Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews identified the victim as Jarrod Johnson, originally from Mitchell County, stabbed once in the upper chest with a makeshift weapon (shank).
The finding
A 26-year-old former Hancock State Prison inmate, accused of murdering his bunkmate two years earlier, was acquitted following a trial in Hancock County Superior Court.
The finding
Joshua Andrew Brock was convicted of murder in a fatal stabbing at Hancock State Prison and sentenced to life without parole.
All Data Points
228 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Compton convicted of malice murder in Hancock State Prison killing Case detail
A Hancock County jury found inmate Compton guilty on all three charges, felony murder, malice murder, and aggravated assault, but two charges merged as a matter of law, leaving malice murder as the sole conviction.
Dennis Brown named Warden of Hancock State Prison Case detail
Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Brian Owens announced the reassignment of Dennis Brown as Warden of Hancock State Prison effective July 1, 2013. The facility is in Sparta, Georgia, and Brown was responsible for overseeing 350 staff members and 1,267 inmates.
Union-Recorder D.A. defendants article contains no mention of Bishop, Samples, or Melgar Data gap
A search of the Union-Recorder article 'D.A. releases names of defendants yet to be tried on murder charges' (retrieved 2026-10-21) for the terms 'Bishop', 'Samples', and 'Melgar' returned no match. This indicates the article does not name these individuals.
Corey July's underlying convictions Case detail
Corey July, the victim in the Vershaun Smith case, was serving time for multiple convictions related to robbery, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Eric Sellers named Warden of Hancock State Prison effective July 1, 2014 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the reassignment of Eric Sellers as the new Warden of Hancock State Prison effective July 1, 2014. Sellers had previously been Warden of Phillips State Prison. The facility is located in Sparta, Georgia.
Hancock State Prison officer vacancy rate 74.35% Statistic
Hancock State Prison had a correctional officer vacancy rate of 74.35%, among the worst-staffed prisons in Georgia, according to an AJC investigation.
74.4%
Hancock State Prison officer vacancy rate 74.35% (August 2023) Statistic
The AJC reported Hancock State Prison's correctional officer vacancy rate as 74.35%, based on August 2023 staffing reports, at a high-security facility holding 1,190 inmates.
74.4%
Hancock State Prison homicide count Statistic
The AJC's list of Georgia prison homicides lists 'Hancock State Prison: 8 homicides'.
8 homicides
Hancock State Prison EBP enrollment FY2025 Statistic
GDC's FY2025 Annual Report lists Hancock State Prison among Close Security Facilities with 1,007 offenders enrolled in the Evidence Based Prisons (EBP) model, bringing total EBP offender enrollment to 2,917.
1,007 offenders vs. 2,917 total EBP enrollment
Source
Two prisoners found dead in same dorm at Hancock State Prison Case detail
The bodies of William Holeman, 34, and Prince Porter, 38, were found in the same dorm about 15-20 feet apart at Hancock State Prison, according to Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews. Porter had a single puncture wound in his upper back while Holeman had no marks on his body; Andrews said he was leaning toward homicide in Porter's case.
Murder warrant served against Orlando Middlebrooks for stabbing death of Dwayne Zackery at Hancock State Prison Case detail
A murder warrant was served against Orlando Middlebrooks in connection with the slaying of Dwayne Zackery at Hancock State Prison. The warrant, taken out by GDC Investigator Latarius Evans, accused Middlebrooks of stabbing Zackery in the chest with a homemade knife ('shank').
Hancock State Prison staff turnover rates, 2010-2013 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 2013 Special Examination (Report No. 13-21) lists Hancock State Prison's annual turnover rates as 14% (2010), 15% (2011), 35% (2012) and 22% (2013).
35%
Compton sentenced to life without parole by Judge Amanda S. Petty Case detail
Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Amanda S. Petty presided over the Compton trial and sentenced Compton to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Four former GDC officers convicted of drug distribution and extortion Case detail
Jeremy Fluellen, Chelsey Mayweather, Tramaine Tucker, and Christopher Williams were convicted by a federal jury after a week-long trial on fifteen counts of cocaine and methamphetamine distribution and seven counts of extortion under color of official right. Prior to trial, 44 other corrections officers pleaded guilty in cases related to the investigation.
Union-Recorder 'Inmate murdered at Hancock State Prison' article contains no conviction/sentencing language for Gary Data gap
A search of the Union-Recorder article 'Inmate murdered at Hancock State Prison' (retrieved 2026-10-21) for the phrases 'Gary was convicted', 'Gary found guilty', 'jury convicted Gary', and 'Gary sentenced' returned no match. The article therefore does not contain those specific conviction or sentencing statements about a person named Gary.
Prosecutor's account of July stabbing Quote
Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District Attorney Barksdale said that as Corey July ran away, Vershaun Smith calmly walked toward him and cornered him at a locked gate at Hancock State Prison, then stabbed July multiple times, killing him.
Hancock State Prison staff and inmate count at 2014 warden transition Statistic
GDC stated that incoming Warden Eric Sellers would be responsible for overseeing 351 staff members and 1,037 close security male inmates at Hancock State Prison.
351 staff members vs. 1,037 close security male inmates
Hancock State Prison had 49 correctional officers on staff Statistic
As of August, Hancock State Prison, a high-security prison housing more than 1,100 men in 16 housing units, had just 49 correctional officers on staff, according to the AJC.
49 correctional officers
Hancock State Prison inmate population 1,190 (August 2023) Statistic
Hancock State Prison, a high-security facility, held 1,190 inmates as of August 2023, according to AJC reporting based on August 2023 reports.
1,190 inmates
Cesar Arnold Pastrana Morales homicide detail Case detail
Cesar Arnold Pastrana Morales, 33, died March 13, 2020, of a stab wound to the chest at Hancock State Prison; an incident report shows five other inmates involved.
Hancock State Prison bed capacity per audit Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' GDC performance audit facility inventory appendix lists Hancock State Prison as Male, Close risk level, with an average of 813 standard beds and 255 special-use beds for a total average physical bed count of 1,068.
1,068 beds
Third prisoner seriously injured in January 2025 Hancock altercation Case detail
A photo caption in the AJC states that prisoners William Holeman and Prince MKeel Porter were killed during an altercation among inmates at Hancock State Prison on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, and a third prisoner was seriously injured.
PREA audit of Hancock State Prison conducted by Robert Lanier of Diversified Correctional Services Policy
A final PREA audit report for Hancock State Prison was conducted by auditor Robert Lanier of Diversified Correctional Services, LLC.
Sergeant Euelia Durden listed among Board of Corrections attendees Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes for February 2019 list Euelia Durden as Sergeant, Hancock State Prison, among those present.
Gary charged with murder counts in Charles McKee stabbing Case detail
Inmate Gary was charged with two counts of murder, two counts of felony murder, and one count of aggravated assault, according to warrants, in the stabbing of fellow Hancock State Prison inmate Charles McKee.
Christopher Williams convicted on nine drug counts and two extortion counts Case detail
Christopher Williams, 26, of Sparta, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison, was convicted of nine counts of attempting to distribute cocaine and/or methamphetamine and two counts of extortion under color of official right.
Rashad Bolton killing at Hancock, Jan. 4, 2021 Case detail
Javaris Compton was accused of stabbing to death 29-year-old Rashad Bolton of Lincoln County; both were inmates at Hancock State Prison at the time of the killing, which occurred between noon and 2 p.m. on Jan. 4, 2021.
Annettia Toby promoted to Warden of Hancock State Prison effective July 1, 2016 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the promotion of Annettia Toby to Warden at Hancock State Prison effective July 1, 2016. As Warden, Toby was responsible for overseeing 357 staff members and 1,191 close security male offenders.
Hancock State Prison inmate population and housing layout Statistic
Hancock State Prison is a high-security prison housing more than 1,100 men in 16 housing units, with nine general population dorms housing 96 each, two segregation units with a combined total of 133 beds, one open bay tent housing unit for 70 inmates, and an annex with four open bay dorms with 50 inmates each, per AJC.
1,190 inmates
Hancock State Prison had 49 correctional officers on staff (August 2023) Statistic
At Hancock State Prison, a high-security prison housing more than 1,100 men in 16 housing units, just 49 correctional officers were on staff as of August 2023.
49 officers
Rashad Bolton homicide detail Case detail
Rashad Bolton, 29, died January 4, 2021, of a puncture wound to the chest with a sharp object at Hancock State Prison; in a lawsuit, his parents claim he was stabbed to death.
Hancock State Prison standard beds Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' performance audit lists Hancock State Prison with 813 standard beds.
813 beds
PREA audit report for Hancock State Prison dated March 15, 2018 Policy
The PREA audit of Hancock State Prison was a final report dated March 15, 2018, conducted by auditor Robert Lanier of Diversified Correctional Services, LLC.
Sergeant Durden presented award for processing second-shift officers Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes record that Sergeant Euelia Durden, an officer at Hancock State Prison, was presented an award for processing in second-shift officers.
Sentencing date set for convicted former officers Legal fact
Sentencings for Jeremy Fluellen, Chelsey Mayweather, Tramaine Tucker, and Christopher Williams were set to occur July 25, 2017, before U.S. District Judge Timothy C. Batten, Sr.
Hancock State Prison staff and inmate count at 2016 warden transition Statistic
GDC stated that incoming Warden Annettia Toby would be responsible for overseeing 357 staff members and 1,191 close security male offenders at Hancock State Prison.
357 staff members vs. 1,191 close security male offenders
Hancock State Prison capacity and opening dates per GDC Statistic
GDC's facility page for Hancock State Prison lists it as constructed in 1990, with a capacity of 1,191, and opened in 1991.
1,191 capacity
Bobby Ricks stabbed 11 times at Hancock State Prison (2019) Case detail
District Attorney Barksdale, who prosecuted Bobby Ricks's murderers at Hancock State Prison in 2019, told the jury at trial that Ricks was "stabbed 11 times" after being stalked, ambushed and chased down by his own gang.
Rashad Bolton stabbed to death at Hancock State Prison Case detail
Rashad Bolton, a 29-year-old Lincoln County man, was stabbed to death in his cell at Hancock State Prison sometime between noon and 2 p.m. on Jan. 4, with a shank used as the murder weapon. He was sentenced in 2016 to 20 years with the first 10 in confinement and the last 10 on probation, according to GDC spokeswoman Lori Benoit.
Dwayne Zackery Jr. homicide detail Case detail
Dwayne Zackery Jr., 22, died February 12, 2021, of a stab wound to the chest with a homemade knife at Hancock State Prison; death data states he was stabbed by his cellmate.
Hancock State Prison special-use beds Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' performance audit lists Hancock State Prison with 255 special-use beds.
255 beds
Arrest warrants filed against Cleveland Gary and Darrion Williams for stabbing death of Charles McKee at Hancock State Prison Case detail
Arrest warrants were filed against 35-year-old Cleveland Gary and Darrion Williams, 33, both state inmates assigned to Hancock State Prison, in connection with the stabbing death of inmate Charles McKee.
Hancock included in gang renunciation and peer mentoring programming discussion Policy
Board of Corrections minutes for November 2021 list Hancock State Prison among the facilities discussed under Inmate Programming, Gang Renunciation (Identity Reformation) and Peer Mentoring/Support.
Albert Chapa, 56, found dead in Hancock cell July 30 Case detail
Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews identified 56-year-old Albert Chapa as the inmate found deceased in his cell at Hancock State Prison and pronounced him dead at 10 a.m. on July 30; Chapa had no visible injuries and his body was sent to the GBI Crime Laboratory in Decatur to determine cause and manner of death.
Inmate death at Hancock State Prison on August 12 (suspected homicide) Case detail
GDC confirmed an inmate death at Hancock State Prison on August 12th, with the cause of death likely homicide pending autopsy results; GDC had not released the victim's identity pending next-of-kin notification.
Methodology: negative-match search log for Hancock State Prison public record Methodology note
The document records a systematic negative-match search of four external sources for Hancock State Prison, Hancock County, and named individuals (Bishop, Samples, Melgar, Gary). All searches returned no match, establishing that these specific sources do not contribute to the Hancock State Prison public record for the searched terms.
Grant v. Ward appeal docketed in Eleventh Circuit Legal fact
Dayvon Grant appealed the Grant v. Ward judgment to the Eleventh Circuit, which docketed the appeal as USCA Case Number 25-13030-C.
Katherine Wells promoted to Deputy Warden of Administration at Hancock State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Katherine Wells to Deputy Warden of Administration at Hancock State Prison, effective February 1, 2018. As Deputy Warden, Wells was responsible for overseeing the Business Office and related administrative functions.
Hancock State Prison security level and population type Policy
GDC's facility page lists Hancock State Prison as serving Adult Male Felons and Close Security.
Smith State Prison had 44 correctional officers for 1,400 inmates (August 2023) Statistic
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that "troubled Smith State Prison had just 44 correctional officers on staff to cover all the shifts at a facility housing 1,400 men with high-security needs in 17 housing units," and that Smith "is supposed to have 162 officers, according to its staffing records."
44 officers vs. 162 authorized officers
GBI investigated Bolton death at Hancock State Prison Case detail
Brian Hargrove, assistant special agent in-charge of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Region 6 Office in Milledgeville, confirmed that a crime scene specialist with the state agency conducted a crime scene investigation into Rashad Bolton's death.
Charles 'Tristen' James McKee homicide detail Case detail
Charles 'Tristen' James McKee, 24, died May 23, 2022, at Hancock State Prison; death data show he was stabbed 13 times in the back and head, with five other inmates directly involved. A lawsuit alleges he was placed in a dorm with known gang members hostile to LGBTQ inmates, and the U.S. Department of Justice investigation found that McKee tried to escape gang members who were beating and stabbing him.
Hancock State Prison population and staffing (AJC) Statistic
The AJC reported that Hancock State Prison houses nearly 1,200 prisoners and is one of the worst-staffed prisons in the state.
1,200 prisoners
Hancock included in evidence-based programming training discussion Policy
Board of Corrections minutes for October 2022 list Hancock State Prison among facilities discussed under EBP (evidence-based programming) training, alongside the Metro Reentry Facility, Lee State Prison, Autry State Prison, Smith State Prison and Coastal State Prison.
Corey July, 34, stabbed to death June 17 at Hancock Case detail
Thirty-four-year-old inmate Corey July was stabbed to death with a homemade knife (a shank) at Hancock State Prison on June 17.
Inmate Kevin Deshawn Lamar killed at Macon State Prison Case detail
Inmate Kevin Deshawn Lamar was killed at Macon State Prison on August 10th; the investigation revealed his death was a homicide by his roommate Garland Pittman, who faced charges of murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a homemade weapon.
Daniels address change to Hancock State Prison (2015) Case detail
Plaintiff Derrick Daniels, in the Daniels v. McLaughlin prison-conditions case, filed a notice of change of address to Hancock State Prison.
Jeremy Foston promoted to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Hancock State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Jeremy Foston to deputy warden of care and treatment at Hancock State Prison, effective May 1, 2019. In this role, Foston was to oversee the supervision of educational programs and health-related functions.
Steven Wood died after altercation at Hancock State Prison Case detail
WJBF reported the Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed an inmate at Hancock State Prison died Sunday after an altercation with another inmate; Steven Wood was pronounced dead on Jan. 25, 2026, having been serving Life with Parole for Murder out of Cherokee County.
Travon Walthour died at Hancock State Prison on October 13, 2024 Case detail
Travon Walthour of Hancock State Prison died on Sunday, October 13, 2024, as confirmed by the Georgia Department of Corrections; the Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia claimed he was fatally stabbed, an assertion not yet formally verified, with the GBI Crime Lab set to carry out autopsies.
DA confirmed Bolton stabbing was murder; cellmate charged Legal fact
Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District Attorney T. Wright Barksdale III confirmed the stabbing of Rashad Bolton was a murder, and the victim's cellmate was arrested and charged with multiple criminal offenses stemming from the slaying.
Terry Lee Bishop homicide detail Case detail
Terry Lee Bishop, 49, died October 18, 2022, at Hancock State Prison of blunt force trauma, acute toxicity of methamphetamine, and acute toxicity of cannabinoids; death data show he was beaten to death by another prisoner.
Hancock State Prison officer vacancy rate Statistic
The AJC reported that more than 70% of officer positions at Hancock State Prison are vacant.
70%
Hancock Evidence Based Program video presented at January 2020 Board meeting Case detail
A Board of Corrections meeting summary records a "Hancock Evidence Based Program video" presented alongside a Beyond the Call employee award.
Hancock inmate murder under investigation, victim name withheld Case detail
Local and state authorities were investigating another murder of an inmate at Hancock State Prison; the slaying happened early Tuesday afternoon according to Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews, and the victim's name was not released pending notification of next of kin.
Wrongful death lawsuit filed against GDC and officials Legal fact
Yemane Selassie filed suit individually and on behalf of the Estate of Amanuel Geberyesus against the Georgia Department of Corrections and Timothy Ward, Annettia Toby, and Derek Hill in their individual capacities, for failure to prevent Geberyesus's death, in case number 5:21-cv-41 (MTT).
Javaris Compton malice murder conviction for cellmate killing Case detail
A Hancock County jury convicted inmate Javaris Compton of malice murder in the stabbing death of his cellmate, 29-year-old Rashad Bolton, at Hancock State Prison; felony murder and aggravated assault charges merged into the malice murder conviction.
Calpurnia Washington promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Hancock State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Calpurnia Washington to Deputy Warden of Security at Hancock State Prison effective April 16, 2022. As deputy warden of security, Washington was responsible for overseeing security operations.
Corey July fatally stabbed at Hancock State Prison Case detail
Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews confirmed that 34-year-old Corey July succumbed to multiple stab wounds following an altercation around 2:45 p.m. on Tuesday in which Corey Jose July, 33, engaged with another inmate before being fatally stabbed, per Hoodline citing WGXA.
Brandon Mincey found dead at Phillips State Prison on October 11, 2024 Case detail
Brandon Mincey, incarcerated at Phillips State Prison, was found deceased on October 11, 2024, as confirmed by the Georgia Department of Corrections; the Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia claimed he was fatally stabbed, an assertion not yet formally verified, with the GBI Crime Lab set to carry out autopsies.
George Ivey appointed Interim Warden at Hancock State Prison Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the appointment of George Ivey to Interim Warden at Hancock State Prison, effective July 1, 2023.
Norman Samples homicide detail Case detail
Norman Samples, 59, died December 27, 2022, at Hancock State Prison of blunt force injuries to the head and torso.
Two gang-related homicides at Hancock State Prison Case detail
In January 2025, two prisoners at Hancock State Prison were found dead just feet apart after an incident described as gang-related violence.
Hardened recreation pens constructed at Hancock and other prisons Policy
GDC's FY2015 annual report states that as part of the facility "hardening" process, hundreds of hardened recreation pens were constructed at Georgia, Ware, Valdosta, Telfair, Hays, Smith, Macon, and Hancock State Prisons, as well as GDCP's Special Management Unit and Burruss Correctional Training Center.
Two inmates slain at Hancock Jan. 30 in gang violence incident Case detail
Two inmates were slain at Hancock State Prison on Jan. 30 stemming from a gang violence incident, according to The Union-Recorder.
Gang-ordered murder at Hancock State Prison on October 11, 2017 Case detail
On or about October 11, 2017, defendant Demarco Draughn murdered an inmate at Hancock State Prison on orders from defendant Anthony Jernigan because the inmate had allegedly violated one of SMM's rules.
Tamikia Mahoney promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Hancock State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Tamikia Mahoney, Assistant Superintendent at Augusta Transitional Center, to Deputy Warden of Security at Hancock State Prison, effective September 1, 2024.
Corey July death ruled homicide by GDC standards Case detail
Coroner Andrews said Corey July's criminal charges included robbery, eluding police, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and the investigation into his death was pronounced a homicide by GDC standards.
GDC-FBI investigation third phase indicts 16 current and 23 former GDC officers Case detail
The GDC-FBI investigation's third phase resulted in federal indictments against 16 current GDC Correctional Officers, 23 former GDC Correctional Officers, four current GEO Group Correctional Officers, and others, involving employees from eight GDC state prisons and one GEO Group prison including Hancock.
Ivey's career history at GDC and Hancock State Prison Case detail
George Ivey began his GDC career in 1994 as a Correctional Officer at Macon State Prison and in 2010 was promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Hancock State Prison, where he was serving at the time of his interim warden appointment.
Roland Lamont Phillips homicide detail Case detail
Roland Lamont Phillips, 33, died June 28, 2023, at Hancock State Prison of multiple sharp force injuries; an incident report shows he suffered 11 puncture wounds to his front torso and one puncture wound to his neck, and a murder warrant was served against his cellmate.
Hancock SP facility specifications from 2012 audit Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 'Maintenance of State Prisons' report lists Hancock SP with 287,244 gross square feet, a capacity of 1,454, 9 maintenance staff, security level Close, and a facility age of 21 years, in the Central region.
1,454 capacity
Mental health services expanded to Hancock for 69 offenders in FY21 Statistic
GDC's FY2021 annual report states that during FY21, GDC continued its effort to address a growing mental health population (21.3%) by expanding mental health services to four additional facilities, including Hancock State Prison (69 offenders), Macon SP (140 offenders), Wilcox SP (64 offenders), and Long Unit (8 offenders).
69 offenders
Gang-violence victims identified as William Holeman, 34, and Price Porter, 38 Case detail
The victims of the Jan. 30 Hancock State Prison gang-violence killing were identified as William Holeman, 34, and Price Porter, 38.
Rontavious Fowler charged with RICO conspiracy Case detail
Rontavious Fowler, a/k/a Lil Hot, 26, of Hancock State Prison in Sparta, Georgia, is charged with RICO conspiracy.
June 17, 2025 yard altercation at Hancock Case detail
On June 17, 2025, at around 2:45 p.m., 33-year-old Corey Jose July and Vershaun Smith were in an altercation in the yard at Hancock State Prison.
Jacorey Pearson found dead in cell at Hancock State Prison; fourth death at facility that year Case detail
Hancock County Chief Deputy Coroner Tonya Thurman told WGXA that 36-year-old Jacorey Pearson was found deceased in his cell around 5:00 a.m. on a Tuesday, marking the fourth inmate to die at Hancock State Prison that year. His body was turned over to the GBI Crime Lab for autopsy to determine the official cause of death.
Jaylin Bell stabbed to death by cellmate at Hancock State Prison Case detail
A Hancock State Prison inmate died after being stabbed multiple times by his cellmate on a Friday morning; Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews said the incident happened around 7:00 a.m. and he pronounced 32-year-old Jaylin Bell dead at 10:42 a.m., with Bell's body taken to the GBI Crime Lab while his injured cellmate was taken to a hospital in Macon for treatment.
LGBTI inmate beaten and stabbed to death at Hancock State Prison on May 22, 2022 Case detail
A DOJ findings report on Georgia prisons describes an incident titled "DEATH AT HANCOCK": on May 22, 2022, following evening chow, an incarcerated person who identified as LGBTI was beaten and stabbed to death by multiple gang members inside a dorm at Hancock State Prison; the victim tried to escape the attackers by jumping through the stair railings onto the floor below, where the attackers continued to stab and curse at the victim.
Hancock State Prison population at Ivey appointment Statistic
As Interim Warden, George Ivey was responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 1,170 male offenders at Hancock State Prison.
1,170 male offenders
Francisco Zaldivar Melgar-Saldivar homicide detail Case detail
Francisco Zaldivar Melgar-Saldivar, 26, died August 12, 2023, at Hancock State Prison of strangulation and blunt force injuries; a claim filed against the state alleges he wasn't provided appropriate medical care after being attacked by another prisoner.
Hancock SP gross square footage 287,244 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 'Maintenance of State Prisons' report lists Hancock SP with 287,244 gross square feet.
287,244 square feet
Hawks Ear contraband cellphone system being implemented at Hancock in FY21 Policy
GDC's FY2021 annual report states that Hawks Ear, a secure private long-term evolution cellular network system that prevents use of wireless devices within facility grounds, was currently being implemented by GDC at Hancock State Prison.
Vershaun Smith sentenced to life without parole Legal fact
Vershaun Smith was convicted by a Hancock County jury of malice murder and was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.
DOJ inspected Hancock State Prison beginning April 26, 2023 Legal fact
The DOJ findings report lists Hancock State Prison among the facilities whose onsite inspections it conducted beginning April 26, 2023.
Lawsuit filed over Charles 'Tristen' McKee's death at Hancock State Prison Legal fact
Lisa Spradlin, mother of Charles 'Tristen' McKee, who died in May 2022 at Hancock State Prison in Sparta, filed a lawsuit against the Georgia Department of Corrections and numerous prison officials alleging her son's civil rights were violated leading to his death. According to the complaint, McKee had a history of mental illness, suicidal thoughts, and gender dysphoria, and was placed in a dorm with known gang members hostile to LGBTQ inmates despite having reported threats to his safety.
GDC land purchase for Hancock State Prison Policy
The Georgia Department of Corrections intends to acquire a 13.41-acre property on Cody Johnson Road, Sparta, Hancock County, Georgia, for $50,000.00.
Demolition of temporary housing tents at Hancock State Prison Policy
In January 2015, the Georgia Board of Corrections approved a property resolution to demolish four quonset-hut style tents that were temporary housing facilities at Hancock State Prison, described as eighteen years old and beyond their useful life, vacated due to lowering prison population.
Hancock SP maintenance staff count 9 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 'Maintenance of State Prisons' report lists Hancock SP with 9 maintenance staff.
9 staff
Hawks Ear fully operational at Hancock by FY2023 Policy
GDC's FY2023 annual report states that Hawks Ear, used to combat illegal contraband mobile devices in correctional facilities, is fully operational at Hancock SP, Valdosta SP, and Phillips SP.
Octavio Pugacerantes indicted in Jaylin Bell killing Case detail
A Hancock County grand jury indicted Octavio Pugacerantes on charges of malice murder, felony murder and aggravated assault, accused of killing fellow Hancock State Prison inmate Jaylin Bell on Feb. 6 using a sharp weapon and causing multiple injuries.
Statewide GDC lockdown after gang-related fights at multiple prisons Case detail
GDC prisons were on a statewide lockdown after a string of "gang-related" fights left multiple inmates injured at Smith, Willcox, Dooly, Hays and Valdosta state prisons, as reported the week WGXA covered Jacorey Pearson's death at Hancock State Prison.
Contraband shipment intercepted headed to Hancock State Prison Case detail
The Hancock County Sheriff's Office said officers with the Georgia Department of Corrections helped intercept a contraband shipment headed to Hancock State Prison on Oct. 16, including over one pound of ecstasy, 33 pounds of marijuana, 22 pounds of tobacco, multiple cellular phones and a PlayStation gaming console, and several knives.
McKee stabbed to death by gang members; lawsuit alleges inadequate staffing Case detail
Spradlin said McKee was brutally attacked and stabbed to death by gang members on May 22, 2022, and the lawsuit alleged inadequate staffing and monitoring allowed the deadly attack to take place. McKee was 17 years old when he entered GDC custody, convicted of 2nd Degree arson and theft by taking.
Spradlin v. Toby court order on motions to dismiss Legal fact
In Spradlin v. Toby (Case 5:23-cv-00328-MTT), the court granted in part and denied in part MHM's and Roberts' motion to dismiss, and granted GDC's and the Board's motion to dismiss, dismissing Counts One through Nine against GDC and Board of Regents, all dismissals without prejudice, dated August 19, 2024.
Hancock SP security level Close Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 'Maintenance of State Prisons' report lists Hancock SP with security level Close.
Hancock fire Station 11 established 1991, ~30 calls annually Statistic
GDC's Fire Services & Life Safety Unit fact sheet states that Station 11, at Hancock State Prison, was established in early 1991 and responds to an average of 30 calls annually, serving Hancock and Washington counties and the city of Sparta.
30 calls annually (average)
Omarion Lyles indicted in Jerrod Johnson killing Case detail
A Hancock County grand jury indicted Omarion Lyles, accused of killing fellow Hancock State Prison inmate Jerrod Johnson with a makeshift weapon on Feb. 18.
Steven Wood died after altercation with cellmate at Hancock State Prison Case detail
WGXA reported that Hancock State Prison inmate Steven Wood died after a fight with his cellmate on a Sunday. GDC identified Wood, and Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews said Wood was 55 years old and confirmed the altercation with his cellmate led to his death. Wood was serving life in prison with parole for murder out of Cherokee County.
Officer Anthonika Fraley arrested for contraband at Hancock Case detail
On October 4, Officer Anthonika Fraley attempted to introduce contraband (1 cellphone and 1 silver necklace) into Hancock State Prison in her bookbag and was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office.
Claims in McKee lawsuit Legal fact
The complaint, filed in late August 2023, brings claims of cruel and unusual punishment, failure to protect, deliberate indifference to medical needs, ADA violations, and supervisory liability, alleging McKee's civil rights were violated leading to his wrongful death.
Spradlin lawsuit allegations Legal fact
Lisa Spradlin, as administrator of the estate of Charles Tristen McKee, alleged in case 5:23-cv-328 that defendants violated the Eighth Amendment, ADA, Rehabilitation Act, and Georgia state law by failing to provide medical treatment for McKee's mental health conditions and failing to protect him from an inmate assault at Hancock State Prison.
Hancock SP facility age 21 years in 2012 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 'Maintenance of State Prisons' report lists Hancock SP with a facility age of 21 years.
21 years
Visible injuries confirmed on Jacorey Pearson's body Case detail
The chief deputy coroner confirmed there were visible injuries to Jacorey Pearson's body.
WGXA article date on Steven Wood death Methodology note
A WGXA article dated Tuesday, January 27, 2026 reported that Steven Wood died at Hancock State Prison after an altercation with his cellmate, with the Hancock County Coroner confirming the altercation caused his death.
Jeremy Fluellen convicted of drug and extortion charges Case detail
Jeremy Fluellen, 28, of Sparta, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison and on the GA DOC tactical unit (COBRA Squad), was convicted of two counts of attempted distribution of cocaine and two counts of extortion under color of official right.
Two inmates killed in gang-related altercation at Hancock State Prison on January 30, 2025 Case detail
Two inmates died following violent altercations at Hancock State Prison in Georgia on January 30, 2025, in an incident GDC described as gang-related; Prince Porter, 38, and William Holeman, 34, were killed during the altercation, which also hospitalized others, and the altercation occurred around 1:30 p.m. on January 30.
Board of Corrections briefing on Hancock interdiction operations Policy
At a Board of Corrections meeting, Matthew Wolfe, Director of the Office of Professional Standards, gave an overview of Interdiction Operations at Hancock State Prison, with highlights including canine deployment to a contraband drop on August 26th, contraband seized, shakedowns, visitation checks, surveillance detail, civilian arrests, and a Hancock State Prison operation schedule of events.
Selassie v. GDC: suicide of Geberyesus Case detail
In Selassie v. GDC, the court's order states that on March 20, 2019, officers discovered Geberyesus with a towel wrapped around him in a position indicating attempted suicide; after a mental health counselor recommended a security strip cell, he was placed in his old cell and committed suicide using a bedsheet on March 21, 2019.
Hancock SP in Central region Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 'Maintenance of State Prisons' report lists Hancock SP in the Central region.
Pearson was serving four years for firearm possession Case detail
Jacorey Pearson was convicted in Coweta County Superior Court in Newnan for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and sentenced to four years in prison.
Georgia Supreme Court upholds murder convictions for 2017 Hancock slaying Legal fact
The Georgia Supreme Court upheld the malice murder convictions and life sentences for Demarco Draughn, Xavier Levatte, and Benny Hayward for the stabbing death of fellow inmate Bobby Ricks at Hancock State Prison; evidence at trial showed Ricks was approached by four inmates while showering at the prison on Oct. 11, 2017, and fatally stabbed.
Hancock State Prison leadership roster as of October 16, 2026 Policy
GDC's Facility Operations directory lists Joe Williams as Warden of Hancock State Prison, with Paul Sanford and Tamika Mahoney as Deputy Warden Security, Rashedah Mitchell as Deputy Warden C&T, and Shaquita Adams as Deputy Warden Admin.
Tramaine Tucker convicted of drug and extortion charges Case detail
Tramaine Tucker, 28, of Sparta, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison and Riverbend Correctional Facility, was convicted of two counts of attempting to distribute cocaine and/or methamphetamine and one count of extortion under color of official right.
Hancock State Prison vacancy rate 73.5% with 49 officers on duty (January 2025) Statistic
A news report described Hancock State Prison as having "a 73.5% correctional officer vacancy rate, with only 49 officers on duty at the time of the incident," referring to violent altercations at the prison.
73.5%
Hancock Correctional Institution capacity in 1992 Statistic
GDC's FY1992 Annual Report lists Hancock Correctional Institution, P.O. Box 339, Sparta, GA 31087, 706/444-5111, Warden Tydus Meadows, with a capacity of 500 and security level printed as 'Oose' (an OCR rendering of 'Close').
500 capacity
Source
Hardening Project completed at Hancock and other Level V facilities Policy
GDC's FY2014 Annual Report states a facility 'Hardening Project' was completed at Level V facilities including Hancock, Telfair, Macon, Valdosta, Ware and Smith State Prisons.
Court compelled production of Hancock night shift roster for Nov. 6, 2020 Legal fact
In discovery in Grant v. Ward, the magistrate judge granted a motion to compel and ordered defendants to produce the Hancock State Prison night shift roster for November 6, 2020, within seven days and to file a copy with the court, with a supporting affidavit.
Grand jury indicted four inmates for 2017 Hancock murder Legal fact
On Sept. 25, 2018, a Hancock County grand jury indicted Draughn, Levatte, Hayward and Diante Thompson for malice murder, felony murder and aggravated assault in connection with the killing of Bobby Ricks at Hancock State Prison.
GDC Office of Professional Standards investigates Pearson death as standard procedure Policy
GDC said the Pearson death investigation is handled by GDC's Office of Professional Standards as standard procedure, and an autopsy was scheduled for later that week to determine cause and manner of death.
Federal investigation charged approximately 130 in GDC corruption probe Statistic
The overall federal investigation of the Georgia Department of Corrections resulted in charges against approximately 130 prison employees, inmates, and non-incarcerated co-conspirators.
130 people charged
William Holeman serving 20 years for armed robbery, max release March 2041 Case detail
William Holeman was serving 20 years for armed robbery (Coweta County) with a maximum release date of March 2041.
44 expanded-metal recreation pens constructed at Hancock SP Statistic
GDC's FY2014 Annual Report states that 44 newly standardized expanded-metal recreation pens were constructed at Hancock State Prison.
44 pens
Officer Chercaria Paschal arrested with four cellphones and tobacco at Hancock Case detail
GDC's contraband-arrests report states that on November 27, at Hancock State Prison, Officer Chercaria Paschal was found with four cellphones and loose tobacco after repeatedly failing to clear the metal detector, and was arrested by the Hancock County Sheriff's Department.
Grant v. Ward dismissed on judgment on the pleadings Legal fact
In Grant v. Ward, the court adopted the report and recommendations, granted the defendants' motion for judgment on the pleadings, and denied as moot the plaintiff's and defendants' summary judgment motions, the plaintiff's motion for default judgment, and other pending motions.
Eric Sellers named Warden of Hancock State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the reassignment of Eric Sellers as the new Warden of Hancock State Prison effective July 1, 2014, replacing Dennis Brown; Sellers had formerly been Warden of Phillips State Prison.
GDC identifies Jacorey Pearson and maximum release date Case detail
GDC communications official Lori Benoit told The Union-Recorder via email that the inmate's name was Jacorey Pearson, and that Pearson had a maximum release date of September 2028.
Statewide lockdown after Dooly fight affected Hancock visitation Policy
After a gang-related fight at Dooly State Prison injured nine people, all GDC facilities were placed on lockdown; GDC posted that Dooly, Washington, Ware and Hancock state prisons would not have visitation that holiday weekend from Saturday, May 22, to Monday, May 25.
Prince Porter serving 20 years for criminal attempt, max release August 2030 Case detail
Prince Porter was serving 20 years for criminal attempt (DeKalb County) with a maximum release date of August 2030.
SMM gang members stabbed fellow member at Hancock State Prison Case detail
On or about May 10, 2020, at Hancock State Prison in Sparta, Georgia, Sex Money Murder (SMM) gang members isolated another SMM member in a prison cell, tied him up, and repeatedly stabbed him on suspicion that he had allegedly violated one of the gang's rules.
SMLD installation completed at Hancock SP Policy
GDC's FY2014 Annual Report lists sites where a Surface Mounted Locking Device (SMLD) installation project was completed as Valdosta, Hancock, Ware, Telfair, Hays, and Smith State Prisons.
23 Sex Money Murder defendants charged in 12-count federal indictment Case detail
23 defendants, allegedly members of the Sex Money Murder gang, were charged in a 12-count federal indictment with racketeering, drug trafficking and firearms violations, with eleven of the defendants inmates at Autry State Prison, Hancock State Prison, Smith State Prison, Ware State Prison, or GDC's Special Management Unit.
Garrison filed letter with court regarding death threats Legal fact
In Garrison v. Ivey, plaintiff Danny Garrison filed a letter with the court regarding death threats, with attachments including family member contact information.
Annette Toby listed as Warden in 2018 Board of Corrections minutes Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes list Annette Toby as Warden, Hancock State Prison, among those present.
Cause and manner of Pearson death not publicly disclosed at time of reporting Data gap
The Union-Recorder reported that local and state authorities were investigating the death of an inmate at Hancock State Prison near Sparta, and that authorities had not publicly revealed whether the death was a homicide, accidental, or from natural causes.
GDC suspended visitation statewide in March 2020 Policy
Following Governor Kemp's directive, GDC suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide, with the suspension in effect through April 10, 2020.
Hancock State Prison constructed 1990, physical capacity 1267, operational capacity 1134, opened 1991, security level close Statistic
GDC's facility description for Hancock State Prison lists CONSTRUCTED: 1990, PHYSICAL CAPACITY: 1267, OPERATIONAL CAPACITY: 1134, OPENED: 1991, SECURITY LEVEL: CLOSE.
1,267 physical capacity vs. 1,134 operational capacity
23 SMM gang members and associates indicted Legal fact
A 12-count indictment was unsealed in the Northern District of Georgia, charging 23 defendants, all alleged Sex Money Murder gang members and associates, with racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking, and firearms violations.
PREA audit cycle 3: designed capacity and current population Statistic
A PREA audit of Hancock State Prison found a designed facility capacity of 1201 and a current population of 988.
988 people vs. 1,201 designed capacity
Joint operation intercepts contraband shipment bound for Hancock SP Case detail
WRDW/WAGT reported that the Hancock County Sheriff's Office and GDC 'carried out a joint operation on Friday, that stopped the load en route to the prison in Sparta' after intercepting a contraband shipment for Hancock State Prison.
Hancock inmates allegedly used contraband cellphones to run meth trafficking network Case detail
While inmates at Hancock State Prison, Valdosta State Prison and Coastal Transition Center, Palacios Baras, McLoon and Hildebrand allegedly obtained contraband cellular telephones and used them to lead and manage an extensive drug trafficking network trafficking crystal methamphetamine in the Atlanta area.
Daniels v. McLaughlin claims dismissed against warden and deputies Legal fact
In Daniels v. McLaughlin, a prison-conditions suit, the court dismissed claims against Warden McLaughlin, Deputy Warden Hinton, and Deputy Warden Moody, dismissed those parties from the action, and dismissed the plaintiff's equal protection and state-law claims.
Inmate Gerrod Malik Johnson stabbed to death with homemade weapon Case detail
An inmate was found dead after being stabbed in Hancock State Prison; the coroner identified him as Gerrod Malik Johnson, 27, who was stabbed with a homemade weapon.
Jacorey Pearson death reported by 41NBC; cause not released Case detail
An inmate died Tuesday at Hancock State Prison, according to the Georgia Department of Corrections, identified as Jacorey Pearson. The cause of death had not been released at that time; his body was turned over to the county coroner and transported to the GBI crime lab to determine the official cause of death.
Hancock State Prison housing: 9 general population dorms, 2 segregation units, tent unit, annex Finding
GDC's facility description for Hancock State Prison describes its housing as 9 general population dormitories housing 96 each, 2 segregation units with a combined total of 133 beds, a J Unit open bay tent housing unit housing 70 inmates, and an Annex containing 4 open bay dorms housing 50 inmates each.
PREA audit of Hancock State Prison conducted in 2015 Policy
A PREA audit of Hancock State Prison, with a facility visit date of October 27, 2015, was conducted by auditor Kevin M Maurer.
PREA audit cycle 3: staff and inmate interviews Statistic
During a PREA audit at Hancock State Prison, thirteen direct care staff were interviewed using the random staff interview protocol, and twenty-one random inmates were interviewed using the inmate interview questionnaire.
13 staff
33 pounds of marijuana seized in Hancock contraband bust Statistic
The intercepted shipment headed for Hancock State Prison included '33 pounds of marijuana'.
33 pounds
Warden George Ivey Jr. listed as Hancock cc recipient on DOJ CRIPA letter Legal fact
DOJ's CRIPA letter to Governor Kemp lists George Ivey Jr. as Warden, Hancock State Prison, among its cc recipients.
Leigh v. Hancock State Prison Warden dismissed without prejudice Legal fact
In Leigh v. Hancock State Prison Warden, the court dismissed the case without prejudice due to the plaintiff's failure to follow the court's orders and prosecute the action.
Joshua Andrew Brock convicted of malice murder for 2025 stabbing Case detail
A jury convicted 38-year-old Joshua Andrew Brock of malice murder and he was sentenced to life without parole for the 2025 stabbing death of fellow Hancock State Prison inmate Prince Porter.
Andre Weems died after altercation with multiple offenders at Hancock State Prison Case detail
The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed the death of inmate Andre Weems at Hancock State Prison following an "altercation with multiple offenders" on a Tuesday. GDC said the death was under investigation by its Office of Professional Standards, and Weems was serving a life sentence with parole for murder out of Clayton County.
Brandon Mincey serving 10 years for aggravated battery, found dead Oct 11, 2024 Case detail
Phillips State Prison inmate Brandon Mincey, serving 10 years on a 2021 aggravated battery conviction, was found dead on Oct. 11, 2024; cause of death had not been released and his body was turned over to the GBI Crime Lab for autopsy.
Hancock State Prison design capacity and population at 2015 PREA audit Statistic
A PREA audit of Hancock State Prison recorded a designed facility capacity of 1201 and a current population of 1137.
1,201 design capacity vs. 1,137 current population
Promotion of Joe Williams to Warden at SMU Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Joseph "Joe" Williams to Warden at the Special Management Unit (SMU) effective May 1, 2023.
22 pounds of tobacco seized in Hancock contraband bust Statistic
The intercepted shipment headed for Hancock State Prison included '22 pounds of tobacco'.
22 pounds
Roland Lamont Phillips stabbed to death at Hancock on June 28 Case detail
Patricia Morris's son, Roland Lamont Phillips, 33, was found stabbed to death in his cell at Hancock State Prison on the morning of June 28; a murder warrant was served against 24-year-old Danny Garrison, another state inmate who had shared a cell with Phillips for less than four days, and Garrison was formally charged with felony murder.
Hogan v. Hancock State Prison recommended for dismissal Legal fact
In Hogan v. Hancock State Prison, the magistrate judge recommended denying Ricky Lamar Hogan's motion to proceed in forma pauperis and dismissing the action without prejudice.
Brock already serving life sentence for armed robbery Case detail
Joshua Andrew Brock was already serving a life sentence for armed robbery, and was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole by Superior Court Judge Terry N. Massey for the stabbing death of Prince Porter.
GDC Office of Professional Standards investigating Weems death Policy
GDC confirmed the death of inmate Andre Weems at Hancock State Prison following an "altercation with multiple offenders" on a Tuesday, with the death investigated by GDC's Office of Professional Standards. The body was turned over to the county coroner and was to be sent to the GBI crime lab to determine the official cause of death.
Travon Walthour serving 18 years for involuntary manslaughter, died Oct 13, 2024 Case detail
Hancock State Prison inmate Travon Walthour, serving 18 years on a 2012 involuntary manslaughter conviction, died on Oct. 13, 2024; cause of death had not been released and his body was turned over to the GBI Crime Lab for autopsy.
PREA audit interviews and alleged incident reports at Hancock State Prison Statistic
Ahead of a PREA audit at Hancock State Prison, there had been 19 reports of alleged PREA incidents, and the audit included interviews of 15 inmates and 12 staff.
19 reports of alleged PREA incidents
PREA audit cycle 3: standards exceeded Statistic
A PREA audit of Hancock State Prison found 3 standards exceeded.
3 standards
Joe Williams listed as Warden in Board minutes Case detail
The Georgia Board of Corrections' March 2025 and June 2025 meeting minutes list Mr. Joe Williams as Warden of the Special Management Unit.
All GDC facilities locked down after Dooly State Prison fight Policy
A GDC spokesperson said 'Out of an abundance of caution, all GDC facilities have been placed on lockdown until further notice' after a fight sent nine inmates to the hospital at Dooly State Prison.
Jarrod Johnson stabbed to death at Hancock; third homicide in under two months Case detail
A 27-year-old inmate at Hancock State Prison was stabbed to death Wednesday afternoon, bringing the number killed at the prison to three in less than two months that year; Hancock County Coroner Dontrelle Andrews identified the victim as Jarrod Johnson, originally from Mitchell County, stabbed once in the upper chest with a makeshift weapon (shank).
Barnett v. Hancock State Prison default order served on warden Legal fact
In Barnett v. Hancock State Prison, the magistrate judge ordered the clerk to serve a copy of an order of default upon the defendant and also upon the Warden of Hancock State Prison.
Lonnie Ragan indicted for January 2026 stabbing death of Steven Wood Case detail
Lonnie Ragan was indicted for stabbing and killing Steven Wood, a fellow Hancock State Prison inmate, on January 24, 2026, on three counts: malice murder, felony murder, and aggravated assault.
Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia said Mincey and Walthour were stabbed to death Finding
The Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia, which tracks in-prison deaths, said both Mincey and Walthour were stabbed to death; their deaths came two weeks after DOJ's statement, and the DOJ investigation into Georgia prisons had been announced in September 2021.
PREA audit standards results at Hancock State Prison Statistic
A PREA audit of Hancock State Prison found the facility exceeded 2 PREA standards, met 37, and did not meet 0.
37 standards met vs. 2 standards exceeded
PREA audit cycle 3: final report submission Methodology note
A PREA audit of Hancock State Prison was signed by auditor Mable P. Wheeler, with the final report submitted 04/26/2021.
FY2027 capital projects for GDC Statistic
The FY2027 Capital Projects by Agency list shows statewide, facility-unspecified line items for the Department of Corrections: Major Repairs - MEP, Water/Wastewater, Paving, Building, Roof at $95,747,000; Security Systems & Life Safety at $95,837,800; and Renovations & Improvements at $8,921,000.
$95.7M USD
Hancock SP among facilities without Memorial Day weekend visitation Policy
GDC said in a Facebook post that Dooly State Prison, Washington State Prison, Ware State Prison and Hancock State Prison 'will not hold visitation during the Memorial Day weekend,' while other prisons would hold regular visitation subject to change.
Johnson died at 5:50 p.m. after infirmary life-saving efforts Case detail
After Johnson's body was discovered, correctional officers took him to the prison infirmary where life-saving measures were administered but he died from his injuries; Andrews pronounced Johnson deceased at 5:50 p.m. Johnson was serving a life sentence for murder, aggravated assault, armed robbery and possession of a knife during the commission of a crime, and the murder came after a major shakedown at the prison earlier that week.
First Boyd v. Hancock State Prison case dismissed without prejudice Legal fact
In one of the Boyd v. Hancock State Prison cases, the court dismissed the complaint without prejudice because the plaintiff failed to comply with the court's orders or otherwise prosecute his case.
Octavio Pugacerantes indicted for February 2026 stabbing death of Jaylin Bell Case detail
Octavio Pugacerantes was indicted for stabbing and killing Jaylin Bell on Feb. 6 while both were incarcerated at Hancock State Prison, on three counts: malice murder, felony murder, and aggravated assault.
GDC confirmed inmate death at Hancock State Prison in May 2022 Case detail
On Monday, May 23, 2022, WGXA reported that the Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed an inmate death had occurred at Hancock State Prison in Sparta, with GDC declining to provide any additional information.
PREA audit cycle 3: standards met Statistic
That PREA audit of Hancock State Prison found the facility exceeded 3 standards and met 42 standards.
42 standards
Audit site visit to Hancock State Prison Methodology note
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit of GDC conducted a site visit to Hancock State Prison, described as one close security state prison, to better understand bed space utilization in practice.
Selassie v. GDC: only Section 1983 claims against Doe defendants remain Legal fact
In Selassie v. Georgia Department of Corrections, the court dismissed Counts I and III without prejudice and left only the section 1983 claims against Doe defendants for violations of the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments to proceed.
Corey July stabbed to death in Hancock prison yard on June 17, 2025 Case detail
The trial jury watched surveillance video of events leading to the stabbing death of Corey July at Hancock State Prison near Sparta on June 17, 2025, which happened in the yard of the prison.
Second Boyd v. Hancock State Prison case dismissed without prejudice Legal fact
In a second, separately filed Boyd v. Hancock State Prison case, the court dismissed the action without prejudice because the plaintiff failed to respond to the court's orders and otherwise failed to prosecute the case.
Omarion Lyles indicted for February 2026 stabbing death of Jerrod Johnson Case detail
Omarion Lyles was indicted for stabbing and killing Jerrod Johnson on Feb. 18, according to a second indictment obtained by 13WMAZ.
PREA audit cycle 3: facility rated capacity and age Statistic
That PREA audit report lists Hancock State Prison's facility rated capacity as 1201 and its age as 31 years.
1,201 people
All GDC facilities locked down after Smith State Prison altercation Policy
WTOC reported that two inmates were airlifted to local hospitals following a gang-related altercation at Smith State Prison, 'prompting officials to place all Georgia Department of Corrections facilities on lockdown,' and that 'All GDC facilities have been placed on lockdown out of an abundance of caution, until further notice.'
Danny Garrison acquitted of murdering bunkmate Roland Phillips Case detail
A 26-year-old former Hancock State Prison inmate, accused of murdering his bunkmate two years earlier, was acquitted following a trial in Hancock County Superior Court.
Spradlin v. Toby (McKee wrongful-death case) motions to dismiss ruled on Legal fact
In Spradlin v. Toby, the McKee wrongful-death case, the court granted in part and denied in part one motion to dismiss and granted a second motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim or lack of jurisdiction, per an order by U.S. District Judge Marc T. Treadwell.
Vershaun Smith convicted of malice murder for stabbing death Case detail
A jury in Hancock County Superior Court in Sparta convicted Vershaun Smith on Aug. 12 of malice murder, according to Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District Attorney T. Wright Barksdale III.
PREA audit cycle 3: population on first day of onsite audit Statistic
That PREA audit of Hancock State Prison recorded the facility's designed capacity as 1201 and population on the first day of the onsite audit as 958.
958 people vs. 1,201 designed capacity
Snipes v. Hancock State Prison: failure-to-protect claims against wardens proceed Legal fact
In Snipes v. Hancock State Prison, the court dismissed the plaintiff's claims against Hancock State Prison and the State of Georgia but allowed his failure-to-protect claims against Wardens Ivey and Sellers to proceed.
Garrison indicted on malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault Legal fact
Danny Garrison had been indicted by a Hancock County grand jury on charges of malice murder, felony murder and aggravated assault.
Garrison case presided over by Judge Terry N. Massee Legal fact
The Garrison murder case was presided over by Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Terry N. Massee; Garrison was accused of stabbing to death his cellmate, Rolland Phillips.
Three inmates indicted on identical murder charges Case detail
A Hancock County grand jury returned true bills of indictment against Ragan, Pugacerantes, and Lyles on identical charges of malice murder, felony murder, and aggravated assault, according to Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District Attorney T. Wright Barksdale III.
Vershaun Smith sentenced to life without parole Case detail
Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit Superior Court Chief Judge Alison T. Burleson sentenced Vershaun Smith to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
PREA audit cycle 4: final report submission Methodology note
A PREA audit report for Hancock State Prison was signed by auditor Darla P. OConnor, with a Date Final Report Submitted of 03/23/2024.
COVID-19 case count discrepancy at Hancock State Prison Data gap
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that 'Hancock State Prison is also fighting coronavirus infections. The Georgia Department of Corrections website shows that two people at the prison have become infected. However, the warden told state health officials that there are seven cases at the prison.'
Phillips stabbed 21 times with a shank Case detail
Phillips was stabbed 21 times with a makeshift weapon commonly referred to by prison officials as a "shank."
Lonnie Jacob Ragan indicted for killing Steven Wood Jan. 24 Case detail
A Hancock County grand jury indicted Lonnie Jacob Ragan on charges of malice murder, felony murder, and aggravated assault, accused of killing fellow Hancock State Prison inmate Steven Wood on Jan. 24.
Hancock County Sheriff's Office and GDC intercept drone-based contraband shipment Case detail
The Union-Recorder reported that Hancock County Sheriff's Office Chief Investigator Thomas Resha said, 'Acting on a timely and actionable tip, the Hancock County Sheriff's Office, in a joint operation with the Georgia Department of Corrections, successfully interdicted and prevented a massive contraband shipment destined for Hancock State Prison on Friday, Oct. 16,' and that the seized items were 'capable of transporting large quantities of contraband through the air' via a drone.
Prosecutor May expresses disappointment at Garrison acquittal Quote
The prosecutor said it was disappointing they did not get a conviction in the killing of Phillips: "Either the jury believed him or they just weren't sure enough to convict him," May said. "It was disappointing that we didn't get a conviction in the killing of Mr. Phillips, but I respect the jury's decision."
Joshua Andrew Brock, 38, convicted of malice murder in Prince Porter death Case detail
Joshua Andrew Brock, 38, was found guilty of malice murder in the January 2025 death of fellow Hancock State Prison inmate Prince Porter, according to the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District Attorney's Office.
PREA audit cycle 4: designed capacity and current population Statistic
A PREA audit of Hancock State Prison found a designed facility capacity of 1199 and a current population of 1122.
1,122 people vs. 1,199 designed capacity
Garrison jury deliberated a little more than an hour Case detail
The jury deliberated Danny Garrison's case for a little more than an hour before returning with a verdict.
Brock sentenced to life without parole for Hancock stabbing Case detail
Joshua Andrew Brock was convicted of murder in a fatal stabbing at Hancock State Prison and sentenced to life without parole.
PREA audit cycle 4: standards exceeded Statistic
A PREA audit of Hancock State Prison found 4 standards exceeded.
4 standards
Officer Jehan Landau arrested for contraband at Hancock SP Case detail
GDC's contraband report states that on January 8 at Hancock SP, Officer Jehan Landau was searched as she reported to work and contraband was located consisting of 1 pair of white socks, 1 pair of men's underwear, 1 pair of multi-colored shorts, and 1 sweatshirt, and she was arrested by the Hancock County Sheriff's Office.
PREA audit cycle 4: standards met Statistic
That PREA audit of Hancock State Prison recorded that the facility met 41 PREA standards.
41 standards
Crystal Sasha Brooks charged with bribery and drug trafficking at Hancock SP Case detail
Crystal Sasha Brooks, 22, of Tennille, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to smuggle contraband into a prison, with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions, and with attempted drug trafficking.
PREA audit cycle 4: over capacity status Finding
That PREA audit report for Hancock State Prison stated the facility had not been over capacity at any point in the past 12 months.
James Julius Watkins, Jr. charged with bribery and drug trafficking at Hancock SP Case detail
James Julius Watkins, Jr., 26, of Sparta, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions and with attempted drug trafficking.
FY2020 mental health services expansion Policy
GDC's FY2020 Annual Report lists Hancock SP among the facilities next to have Mental Health Services expanded, alongside Macon SP.
Pierre Hill charged with bribery and drug trafficking at Hancock SP Case detail
Pierre Hill, 33, of Warrenton, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions and with attempted drug trafficking.
FY2020 security upgrades at Hancock SP Policy
GDC's FY2020 Annual Report states that back-gate hardening, new interior sally port gates and fencing modifications were completed in FY2020 at state prisons including Autry, Calhoun, Hancock, Johnson, Smith, Telfair, Valdosta, Ware, and Washington.
Christopher Tate Williams charged with bribery and drug trafficking at Hancock SP Case detail
Christopher Tate Williams, 25, of Sparta, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions and with attempted drug trafficking.
Battle v. Hancock State Prison judgment Legal fact
In Battle v. Hancock State Prison, an ADA employment-discrimination suit by a former Hancock State Prison employee, the court granted the defendant's motion for judgment on the pleadings and entered judgment in favor of the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Jeremy Fluellen charged with bribery and drug trafficking at Hancock SP Case detail
Jeremy Fluellen, 26, of Sparta, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions and with attempted drug trafficking.
Battle v. Hancock State Prison counsel appointment Legal fact
The Eleventh Circuit granted a motion for appointment of counsel, appointing Howard W. Anderson III as counsel for appellant as to a notice of appeal filed by Detrich Battle.
Inmate Francisco Palacios Baras charged in meth trafficking ring from Hancock SP Case detail
Francisco Palacios Baras, 36, an inmate at Hancock State Prison in Sparta, Georgia, was charged with one count of conspiring to distribute at least 50 grams of methamphetamine and eleven counts of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.
Sources
122 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Albert Chapa
[person]
Alison T. Burleson
[person]
Amanda S. Petty
[person]
Amanuel Geberyesus
[person]
Andre Weems
[person]
Angela Denise Dinkins
[person]
Annettia Toby
[person]
Anthonika Fraley
[person]
Anthony Jernigan
[person]
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
[organization]
Augusta Transitional Center
[facility]
Autry State Prison
[facility]
Barnett v. Hancock State Prison
[case]
Battle v. Hancock State Prison
[case]
Benny Hayward
[person]
Blood gang
[organization]
Board of Corrections
[organization]
Bobby Ricks
[person]
Boyd v. Hancock State Prison
[case]
Brandon Mincey
[person]
Brian Hargrove
[person]
Brian Owens
[person]
Calhoun State Prison
[facility]
Calpurnia Washington
[person]
Cesar Arnold Pastrana Morales
[person]
Cesar Pastrana
[person]
Charles 'Tristen' James McKee
[person]
Charles 'Tristen' McKee
[person]
Charles McKee
[person]
Charles Tristen McKee
[person]
Chelsey Mayweather
[person]
Chercaria Paschal
[person]
Christopher Tate Williams
[person]
Christopher Williams
[person]
Cleveland Gary
[person]
Compton
[person]
Corey July
[person]
Coweta County Superior Court
[organization]
Crystal Sasha Brooks
[person]
Daniels v. McLaughlin
[case]
Danny Garrison
[person]
Darla P. OConnor
[person]
Darrion Williams
[person]
Dayvon Grant
[person]
Demarco Draughn
[person]
Dennis Brown
[person]
Derek Hill
[person]
Derrick Daniels
[person]
Detrich Battle
[person]
Diante Thompson
[person]
District Attorney Barksdale
[person]
Diversified Correctional Services, LLC
[organization]
Dontrelle Andrews
[person]
Dooly State Prison
[facility]
Dwayne Zackery
[person]
Dwayne Zackery Jr.
[person]
Eric Sellers
[person]
Euelia Durden
[person]
Federal Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Felipe Diaz
[person]
Francisco Palacios Baras
[person]
Francisco Zaldivar Melgar-Saldivar
[person]
Gangster Disciples
[organization]
Garland Pittman
[person]
Garrison v. Ivey
[case]
Gary
[person]
GBI Crime Lab
[organization]
GBI Crime Laboratory
[organization]
GDC Canine Unit
[organization]
GDC Office of Professional Standards
[organization]
GEO Group
[organization]
George Ivey
[person]
George Ivey Jr.
[person]
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 State Financing and Investment Commission
[organization]
Georgia State Patrol
[organization]
Georgia Supreme Court
[organization]
Gerald Florence, Jr.
[person]
Gerrod Johnson
[person]
Gerrod Malik Johnson
[person]
Grant v. Ward
[case]
Gregory C. Dozier
[person]
Hancock County Coroner's Office
[organization]
Hancock County Sheriff's Department
[organization]
Hancock County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Hancock County Superior Court
[case]
Hancock State Prison
[facility]
Hawks Ear
[program]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
Hogan v. Hancock State Prison
[case]
Homer Bryson
[person]
Howard W. Anderson III
[person]
Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia
[organization]
Jacorey Pearson
[person]
James Julius Watkins, Jr.
[person]
Jamirio Ray
[person]
Jarrod Johnson
[person]
Jasmine Hall
[person]
Javaris Compton
[person]
Jaylin Bell
[person]
Jehan Landau
[person]
Jeremiah Canty
[person]
Jeremy Fluellen
[person]
Jeremy Foston
[person]
Jerrod Johnson
[person]
Joe Williams
[person]
Joshua Andrew Brock
[person]
Katherine Wells
[person]
Kevin Deshawn Lamar
[person]
Kevin M Maurer
[person]
Kortessia Gilbert
[person]
Latarius Evans
[person]
Leigh v. Hancock State Prison Warden
[case]
Lisa Spradlin
[person]
Lonnie Jacob Ragan
[person]
Lonnie Ragan
[person]
Lori Benoit
[person]
Lyles
[person]
Mable P. Wheeler
[person]
Macon State Prison
[facility]
Marc T. Treadwell
[person]
Matthew Wolfe
[person]
Milledgeville Police Department
[organization]
Montarius Holliman
[person]
Norman Samples
[person]
Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District Attorney's Office
[organization]
Octavio Pugacerantes
[person]
Office of Professional Standards
[organization]
Omarion Lyles
[person]
Operation Ghost Guard
[operation]
Orlando Middlebrooks
[person]
Paul Sanford
[person]
Phillips State Prison
[facility]
Pierre Hill
[person]
Prince Porter
[person]
Pugacerantes
[person]
Rashad Bolton
[person]
Rashedah Mitchell
[person]
Ricky Lamar Hogan
[person]
Riverbend Correctional Facility
[facility]
Robert Lanier
[person]
Roland Lamont Phillips
[person]
Rontavious Fowler
[person]
Roy Bradshaw
[person]
Selassie v. Georgia Department of Corrections
[case]
Sex Money Murder
[organization]
Shaquita Adams
[person]
Smith State Prison
[facility]
SMM
[organization]
Snipes v. Hancock State Prison
[case]
Special Management Unit
[facility]
Spradlin v. Toby
[case]
Steven Wood
[person]
T. Wright Barksdale III
[person]
Tamikia Mahoney
[person]
Telfair State Prison
[facility]
Terry Lee Bishop
[person]
Terry N. Massee
[person]
Terry N. Massey
[person]
The Union-Recorder
[organization]
Thomas Resha
[person]
Timothy C. Batten, Sr.
[person]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Timothy Konzelman
[person]
Timothy Lamar Massengale
[person]
Timothy Ward
[person]
Tonya Thurman
[person]
Tramaine Tucker
[person]
Travon Walthour
[person]
Tydus Meadows
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia
[organization]
Vershaun Smith
[person]
Warden Ivey
[person]
Warden Sellers
[person]
Ware State Prison
[facility]
Washington County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Willcox State Prison
[facility]
William Holeman
[person]
Wyoming News Now
[organization]
Xavier Levatte
[person]
Yazmeen Wilson
[person]
Yemane Selassie
[person]