Hays State Prison (Trion): capacity, deaths and violence, prosecutions, lawsuits, staffing, money and audits
Hays 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
Courthouse News Service reported that a Georgia prison demanded $250,000 to respond to Open Records requests concerning Hays State Prison, where four inmates had been murdered in the past four months, according to a dead inmate's mother's claim in court.
The finding
The AJC reported that Georgia prisons saw an unprecedented 38 homicides in 2023, topping the previous record of 31 the year before.
The finding
The Georgia Department of Corrections agreed to pay $350,000 to settle a federal civil rights lawsuit brought by the estate of Damion MacClain, a prisoner murdered at Hays State Prison.
The finding
The lawsuit over MacClain's death alleged that prison officials knew 40% of the cell door locks at Hays State Prison were broken but did not fix the problem until three prisoners had been killed.
The finding
GDC's contraband arrest report states that on January 7 at Hays SP, security staff recovered 12 packages wrapped in electrical tape in Officer Nicholas Grindle's locker, consisting of 7 vape pens, 1 vape bottle, 1 wireless ear bud, 20 charging cables, 5 charging blocks, 14 cell phones, 222 grams of marijuana, and 760 grams of methamphetamine.
The finding
Three years after an internal audit reported problems with locks, the Georgia Department of Corrections signed a $1 million emergency contract in February 2013 to replace cell door locks at Hays State Prison.
The finding
A state audit in September found that 184 locks failed out of 442 locks inspected at Hays State Prison. Inspectors reported a 'high number of cell door locks that will not deadlock.' Other state prisons also struggled with locks, the AJC found in a review of audits at each of the state's highest-security prisons.
The finding
Hays State Prison had a total of 438 allotted positions including security and non-security with 96 overall vacancies, and 268 allotted positions for security with 89 vacancies, per a GDC PREA audit.
Source
The finding
The Southern Center for Human Rights said it received daily calls and letters reporting that cell doors at Hays State Prison remained broken, did not lock, or could be manipulated with a card or a finger, allowing prisoners to roam hallways and enter other cells or buildings.
The finding
All GDC prisons, including Hays State Prison, were placed on lockdown after gang-related fights at Smith, Wilcox, Hays, and Valdosta State Prisons injured multiple inmates, per an article published Friday, April 3, 2026.
The finding
According to the DOJ's Georgia prisons investigation report, staffing levels vary across the prisons, with correctional officer vacancy rates around 50% systemwide and over 70% at ten of the largest facilities.
The finding
Roughly 24 hours after a fourth Hays State Prison inmate was killed, Georgia corrections officials ordered the warden of the maximum-security facility replaced.
The finding
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of those killed in Georgia's prison system counts six homicides at Hays State Prison since 2020: Anthony L. McGhee Jr. (2020), Jorge Renberto Ventura-Cabrera (2021), Quintez Smith (2022), Talore Stihles Blackford (2023), Jeremy Edward Price (2024), and Freddie Lee Talley (2024).
The finding
The AJC's prison staffing analysis found a correctional officer vacancy rate of 67.42% at Hays State Prison.
The finding
A 2013 Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit of GDC and DJJ facility turnover rates lists Hays State Prison's officer turnover rate as 23% in 2010, 29% in 2011, 35% in 2012, and 42% in 2013.
All Data Points
244 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Former GDC officer Mark Edward Jeffery sentenced for smuggling methamphetamine into Hays State Prison Case detail
Mark Edward Jeffery, a former Georgia Department of Corrections officer, was sentenced to federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine after smuggling alcohol, drugs, and contraband cellphones into Hays State Prison, according to a U.S. Attorney's Office press release dated Monday, April 29, 2019.
Hays State Prison FY18 Average Standard Bed Count Statistic
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit of the Georgia Department of Corrections lists Hays State Prison with an FY18 Average Standard Bed Count of 699.
699 beds
Hays State Prison demanded $250,000 for Open Records response Case detail
Courthouse News Service reported that a Georgia prison demanded $250,000 to respond to Open Records requests concerning Hays State Prison, where four inmates had been murdered in the past four months, according to a dead inmate's mother's claim in court.
GDC confirmed active investigation into Hays stabbing death but named no suspects Finding
The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed to a local newspaper that there was an active investigation into the stabbing death of a Hays State Prison inmate but did not identify any suspects at that time.
Hays State Prison correctional officer vacancy rate, July–November Statistic
From July through November, Hays State Prison averaged a 17.5 percent vacancy rate among correctional officers, according to monthly reports Hays sent to the Georgia Department of Corrections.
17.5%
Indictment of Esco Hill for murder of Alford Morris Legal fact
On October 6, 2014, a Chattooga County grand jury indicted Esco Hill for malice murder, felony murder predicated on aggravated assault, and aggravated assault in connection with the stabbing death of fellow Hays State Prison inmate Alford Morris.
Hays State Prison constructed 1989 Statistic
GDC's facility page for Hays State Prison states it was constructed in 1989.
1,989 year
Hays State Prison inmate population in 2022 Statistic
As of March 2022, Hays State Prison housed 1,101 close security male offenders, according to a GDC press release announcing Shawn Emmons as warden.
1,101 inmates
Four of the prisoners slain in late 2012 and early 2013 were at Hays State Prison Finding
Four of the prisoners killed in late 2012 and early 2013 were at Hays State Prison in Trion, Georgia, where audits revealed many cell door locks had not worked in years, according to a 2014 article on a Georgia legislative hearing.
Georgia prison homicides reached record 38 in 2023 Statistic
The AJC reported that Georgia prisons saw an unprecedented 38 homicides in 2023, topping the previous record of 31 the year before.
38 homicides vs. 31 homicides in 2022
Jeffery began work at Hays State Prison on April 17, 2017; contraband object found February 7, 2018 Case detail
Jeffery began working as a correctional officer at Hays State Prison in Trion, Georgia on April 17, 2017. On February 7, 2018, a fellow correctional officer observed a large rectangular object wrapped in black electrical tape hidden in Jeffery's beverage container.
Hays State Prison FY18 Average Special Use Bed Count Statistic
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit of the Georgia Department of Corrections lists Hays State Prison with an FY18 Average Special Use Bed Count of 343.
343 beds
Four Hays inmates murdered in four months (2013 claim) Statistic
According to a court claim by a deceased inmate's mother, four inmates were murdered at Hays State Prison in the four months preceding April 8, 2013.
4 inmates murdered
Jorge Renberto Ventura murdered in his cell at Hays in June Case detail
Jorge Renberto Ventura, a Hays State Prison inmate serving a sentence for molesting a thirteen-year-old girl he met online, was reportedly murdered in his cell at Hays in June. Chattooga County Coroner Earle Rainwater stated in June that Ventura was stabbed to death at Hays State Prison.
Inmates treated in Hays medical ward during five-month limited lockdown Statistic
During a five-month period of limited lockdown at Hays State Prison, 223 inmates were treated in the prison's medical ward.
223 inmates
Hays State Prison capacity 1,101 (GDC facility page) Statistic
GDC's facility page for Hays State Prison lists its capacity as 1,101.
1,101 beds
No Hays/Trion/Chattooga references in FY2021 HB 793 appropriations bill Data gap
A search of the FY2021 HB 793 appropriations bill at opb.georgia.gov for the terms 'Hays', 'Trion', and 'Chattooga' returned no match, indicating no line-item reference to Hays State Prison in that budget document.
Hays State Prison inmate population in 2023 Statistic
As of February 2023, Hays State Prison housed 1,100 medium security male offenders, according to a GDC press release announcing Christopher McAllister as Deputy Warden of Security.
1,100 inmates
No GDC officials attended April 2014 legislative hearing on prison violence Finding
About 70 people attended an April 2014 legislative hearing on prison violence that included testimony about Hays State Prison deaths, but no one from the Georgia Department of Corrections attended, and no invited North Georgia legislators attended. GDC spokeswoman Gwendolyn Hogan said in an email that officials understood there would be a follow-up hearing.
Six homicides recorded at Hays State Prison in AJC list Statistic
The AJC's list of Georgia prison homicides records a total of 6 homicides at Hays State Prison.
6 homicides
Hays State Prison opened in 1990 and held approximately 1,680 male prisoners Statistic
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office press release, Hays State Prison opened in 1990 and currently holds approximately 1,680 male prisoners.
1,680 prisoners
Hays State Prison FY18 Average Physical Bed Count Statistic
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit of the Georgia Department of Corrections lists Hays State Prison with an FY18 Average Physical Bed Count of 1,042.
1,042 beds
Two Hays inmates charged in January 24 officer kidnapping and stabbing Case detail
Chattooga County Magistrate Court records show Hays State Prison inmates David Omar Tyler, 31, of Atlanta, and Roman Christian Higdon, 31, of Philadelphia, Penn., were accused of kidnapping, beating and stabbing a correctional officer on January 24; both were transported to the Chattooga County Jail and booked.
Inmates transported to local hospital from Hays medical ward Statistic
Of the 223 inmates treated in Hays State Prison's medical ward during a five-month limited lockdown, 11 had conditions severe enough that they were transported to a local hospital.
11 inmates
Hays State Prison opened 1990 Statistic
GDC's facility page for Hays State Prison states it opened in 1990.
1,990 year
No Hays references in FY2023 Amended HB 18 appropriations bill Data gap
A search of the FY2023 Amended HB 18 appropriations bill at opb.georgia.gov for 'Hays' and 'Hays State Prison' returned no match.
Source
Hays State Prison inmate population in 2018 Statistic
As of January 2018, Hays State Prison housed over 1,800 close security male offenders, according to a GDC press release announcing Jacob Beasley as Deputy Warden of Security.
1,800 inmates
Gabriel Illa promoted to Warden at Hays State Prison effective September 1, 2026 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Gabriel Illa, Deputy Warden of Security at Hays State Prison, to Warden at Hays SP effective September 1, 2026.
Anthony L. McGhee Jr. homicide at Hays, March 2020 Case detail
Anthony L. McGhee Jr., 34, died March 29, 2020 at Hays State Prison of complications of blunt force head trauma and sharp force trauma of torso and extremities.
GDC paid $350,000 to settle estate of Damion MacClain, murdered at Hays State Prison Legal fact
The Georgia Department of Corrections agreed to pay $350,000 to settle a federal civil rights lawsuit brought by the estate of Damion MacClain, a prisoner murdered at Hays State Prison.
Hays State Prison expansion plan: 400 beds Policy
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit of GDC, in its Potential GDC Facility Expansion Plan exhibit, lists a Hays State Prison expansion of 400 beds, Male, Close security, with current status 'Operating' and projected cost to increase 'Not provided.'
Officer handcuffed to bed frame and beaten with carabiner and chain Case detail
According to AllOnGeorgia's report citing court records, two inmates forced a Georgia Department of Corrections officer into a cell, locked the door, handcuffed the officer to a bed-frame with his own handcuffs, and beat him with a carabiner attached to a large chain.
Ventura stabbed in neck and back in his cell around 7 PM Tuesday Case detail
The Summerville News reported that Chattooga County Coroner Earle Rainwater confirmed Jorge Renberto Ventura was stabbed in the neck and back in his cell at Hays State Prison around 7 PM on a Tuesday evening.
Hays State Prison overtime payouts, July–October Statistic
From July through October, Hays State Prison paid out nearly $700,000 in overtime.
$700,000
Assault and death of Melvin Johnson at Hays State Prison Case detail
The family of Melvin Johnson, a Coffee County man incarcerated at Hays State Prison, received a phone call on Jan. 26 informing them he was on life support at a Rome-area hospital after being assaulted at Hays State Prison; he was later taken off life support and died.
Hays State Prison classified as State Prison, Close Security Policy
GDC's facility page for Hays State Prison lists it as a State Prison and lists Close Security among what it serves.
Hays State Prison warden oversees approximately 1,086 male offenders Statistic
As Warden at Hays State Prison, Gabriel Illa was to be responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 1,086 male offenders.
1,086 male offenders
Jorge Renberto Ventura-Cabrera homicide at Hays, June 2021 Case detail
Jorge Renberto Ventura-Cabrera, 35, died June 5, 2021 at Hays State Prison of stab wounds to neck, torso and upper extremities; an incident report shows two other inmates involved.
Quintez Smith homicide at Hays, August 2022 Case detail
Quintez Smith, 25, died Aug. 29, 2022 at Hays State Prison of multiple sharp force injuries.
Lawsuit alleged 40% of cell door locks at Hays were broken before three prisoners were killed Finding
The lawsuit over MacClain's death alleged that prison officials knew 40% of the cell door locks at Hays State Prison were broken but did not fix the problem until three prisoners had been killed.
Hays State Prison site visit in maintenance audit Methodology note
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts special examination on maintenance of state prisons states that the audit team conducted six site visits to prisons including Hays (North Region) as part of its methodology.
Officer stabbed with sharpened metal in head, back and legs Case detail
According to AllOnGeorgia's report citing court records, the two inmates then stabbed the officer with a sharpened piece of metal in the head, back and legs; Tyler and Higdon were charged with felony kidnapping, felony aggravated assault and felony obstruction of law officers.
GDC had not released official statement on Ventura murder or arrests Finding
The Georgia Department of Corrections had not released an official statement on the murder of Jorge Renberto Ventura at Hays State Prison or the arrests of the two charged inmates.
Scott Crickmar appointed warden of Hays State Prison Case detail
Scott Crickmar was appointed warden of Hays State Prison in July; since his appointment the prison had remained on limited lockdown.
Family denied access to Melvin Johnson before and after death Case detail
Family members of Melvin Johnson drove nearly six hours to the hospital, were denied access after being told they were not on his approved visitation list, and were still not allowed to see him after his death, according to the Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia.
No Hays references in Amended FY2026 conference committee highlights Data gap
A search of the House Budget and Research Office Amended FY2026 Conference Committee Highlights document for 'Hays' and 'Hays State' returned no match.
Hays State Prison inmate population in 2014 (January) Statistic
As of January 2014, Hays State Prison housed 1,266 male inmates, according to a GDC press release announcing Alisa Hammock as Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment.
1,266 inmates
Gabriel Illa began GDC career in 2007 as Correctional Officer at Hays State Prison Case detail
Gabriel Illa began his career with GDC in 2007 as a Correctional Officer at Hays State Prison and was promoted through the ranks of CERT Sergeant, Lieutenant, Tactical Squad member, Chief of Security, and Unit Manager. In 2023 he was promoted to Deputy Warden of Security, where he was serving when promoted to Warden.
Talore Stihles Blackford homicide at Hays, October 2023 Case detail
Talore Stihles Blackford, 31, died Oct. 28, 2023 at Hays State Prison of multiple stab wounds to the neck.
Jackson v. Owens settled in 2015 for $110,000 Legal fact
A Prison Legal News litigation table lists Jackson v. Owens, U.S.D.C. (N.D. Georgia), Case No. 4:14-cv-00254-HLM, concluded in 2015 by settlement, with damages of $110,000.
Hays preventive maintenance work orders Feb-Aug 2011 Statistic
The Georgia DOAA's 'Maintenance of State Prisons' audit reported that at Hays, preventive maintenance work orders totaled 2,146 (91% of total orders) for the period February through August 2011.
2,146 work orders vs. 91 percent of total orders
SCHR filed civil rights lawsuit against eight GDC officials over Damion MacClain killing Legal fact
The Southern Center for Human Rights, on behalf of RoHonda MacClain, filed a civil rights lawsuit against eight Department of Corrections officials, from state corrections Commissioner Brian Owens to former Hays Warden Clay Tatum and the two guards on shift when 27-year-old Damion MacClain was slain in December 2012.
Warden Clay Tatum replaced roughly 24 hours after fourth killing Case detail
Hays State Prison warden Clay Tatum was replaced roughly 24 hours after the fourth killing in a spasm of violence at the prison.
Murder charges filed against Montez Potts and Adrian Murdock Case detail
Murder charges were filed against two former inmates, Montez Potts, 31, and Adrian Murdock, 35, in connection with the October killing of Lawrence Williams, 33, at Hays State Prison near Trion, Georgia; they are accused of participating in a gang-related killing inside the prison walls.
Hays housing breakdown: 10 GP dorms (620), Fast Track (256), 6 SMU dorms (218), Annex 8 dorms (400), Quonset Huts (170) Policy
GDC's Facility Descriptions document describes Hays State Prison's housing as comprised of 10 general population dorms with 62 beds per dorm (620 total), one Fast Track building housing 256, six Special Management Unit dorms totaling 218 beds, and a Hays Annex with 8 dorms of 50 beds each (400 beds), plus Quonset Huts with 170 beds.
No Hays/ModCorr/GDC references in GSFIC June 2025 board summary Data gap
A search of the Georgia State Financing & Investment Commission board meeting summary dated June 23, 2025 for 'Hays', 'ModCorr', 'Department of Corrections', and 'modular' returned no match.
Officer Nicholas Grindle's locker at Hays SP held 760 grams of methamphetamine and 222 grams of marijuana Case detail
GDC's contraband arrest report states that on January 7 at Hays SP, security staff recovered 12 packages wrapped in electrical tape in Officer Nicholas Grindle's locker, consisting of 7 vape pens, 1 vape bottle, 1 wireless ear bud, 20 charging cables, 5 charging blocks, 14 cell phones, 222 grams of marijuana, and 760 grams of methamphetamine.
Jeremy Edward Price homicide at Hays, March 2024 Case detail
Jeremy Edward Price, 36, died March 2, 2024 at Hays State Prison of stab wounds to the neck and chest.
MacClain v. Owens settled in 2014 for $350,000 Legal fact
A Prison Legal News litigation table lists MacClain v. Owens, U.S.D.C. (N.D. Georgia), Case No. 4:13-cv-00210-HLM, concluded in 2014 by settlement, with damages of $350,000.
Hays corrective maintenance work orders Feb-Aug 2011 Statistic
The Georgia DOAA's 'Maintenance of State Prisons' audit reported that at Hays, corrective maintenance work orders totaled 216 (9% of total orders) for the period February through August 2011.
216 work orders vs. 9 percent of total orders
Hays State Prison capacity: 1,101 Statistic
A GDC Close Security Facilities fact sheet lists Hays State Prison, located in Trion, with a capacity of 1,101.
1,101 beds
Attorneys cite state audits showing five years of known broken cell doors and locks at Hays Finding
RoHonda MacClain's attorneys cite state audits showing officials were aware for five years that cell doors and locks at Hays State Prison were broken and could be manipulated with fingers or scraps of toilet paper.
RoHonda MacClain lawsuit against Hays officials and GDC Legal fact
RoHonda MacClain sued Hays State Prison officials and the Georgia Department of Corrections in September, claiming the warden and other supervisors knew about escalating violence at Hays but chose to ignore it. The Southern Center for Human Rights brought the suit on her behalf.
Details of Lawrence Williams killing Case detail
Montez Potts and Adrian Murdock are accused of being party to the crime of murder, aiding and abetting in the killing of Lawrence Williams by chasing him down, armed with a weapon, and trapping him on a stairwell where he was stabbed, leading to his death.
Hays mission: close security, host for Paulding Probation Detention Center Policy
GDC's Facility Descriptions document states Hays State Prison is a close security facility serving the DOC through housing and managing some of the state's most challenging offenders, and also serves as the host facility for Paulding Probation Detention Center.
No Hays references in DOJ Georgia prisons investigation announcement Data gap
A search of the U.S. Department of Justice press release announcing its investigation into conditions in Georgia prisons for 'Hays' and 'Hays State Prison' returned no match.
Aramark Food Service Director Diego Vega arrested at Hays State Prison for contraband Case detail
GDC's contraband arrest report states that on December 5 at Hays State Prison, Aramark Food Service Director Diego Vega was arrested by the Office of Professional Standards after giving liquor and drugs to inmates and bringing a weapon onto prison grounds. He was transported to Chattooga County Sheriff's Office.
Freddie Lee Talley homicide at Hays, May 2024; multiple sharpened weapons Case detail
Freddie Lee Talley, 31, died May 6, 2024 at Hays State Prison of a stab wound to the chest; the incident report shows a murder involving weapons described as 22-inch, 20-inch, 12-inch, 14-inch, 10.5-inch and 21.5-inch sharpened weapons, with four other prisoners involved.
December 2012 deaths of Derrick Stubbs and Damion MacClain at Hays State Prison Case detail
The complaint in MacClain's case alleged that on December 19, 2012, prisoner Derrick Stubbs was found dead in his segregation cell after being assaulted in another part of the prison where the locks did not work, and that a week later, on December 26, MacClain, 27, was beaten and strangled to death.
Hays FY10 maintenance expenditures Statistic
A State Auditor report on Maintenance of State Prisons shows Hays State Prison had FY10 maintenance expenditures of $881,596.22.
$881,596 USD
Hays State Prison opened in 1991 Statistic
A GDC Close Security Facilities fact sheet states Hays State Prison opened in 1991.
1,991 year opened
Hector DeJesus Torres indicted for murder of Quintez Deshon Smith Case detail
A Chattooga County grand jury indicted Hays State Prison inmate Hector DeJesus Torres on charges including malice murder, two counts of felony murder, aggravated assault, and participating in a riot within a penal institution, in connection with the fatal stabbing of fellow prisoner Quintez Deshon Smith, 29, around 1 a.m. on August 29, 2022, in the prison's A-dormitory.
Timothy Teasley charged with felony murder Case detail
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader said Timothy 'Green Light' Teasley was charged with felony murder and aggravated assault by Georgia Department of Corrections investigators in connection with a murder that happened on March 19th, 2020 at Hays Prison while Teasley was incarcerated.
Hays listed as Close Security in Trion (1999 annual report) Policy
GDC's 1999 annual report lists Hays State Prison in Trion, Georgia as a Close Security facility.
No Hays/Georgia references in Nevada Current prison deaths lawsuit article Data gap
A search of a Nevada Current article on a lawsuit alleging guards fatally beat an inmate for 'Hays', 'Hays State Prison', and 'Georgia' returned no match.
Hays inmate Jequaski Rashad Whitehead charged with aggravated assault and felony murder Case detail
Jequaski Rashad Whitehead, a Hays State Prison inmate and native of Dougherty County, Georgia, was charged by Georgia Department of Corrections officials with aggravated assault and felony murder. He was already serving multiple sentences for drug possession.
Jackson v. Owens settled in February 2015 Legal fact
The lawsuit over Hall-Jackson's and Reynolds' deaths -- Jackson v. Owens -- settled in February 2015.
Hays FY11 maintenance expenditures Statistic
A State Auditor report on Maintenance of State Prisons shows Hays State Prison had FY11 maintenance expenditures of $868,838.65.
$868,839 USD
Hays is host facility to Paulding Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Center Policy
A GDC Close Security Facilities fact sheet lists Hays State Prison as host facility to Paulding Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Center.
Aug. 19, 2012 incident: inmates running with shanks, third inmate bleeding Case detail
Incident reports cited in the MacClain lawsuit show that on Aug. 19, 2012, an officer at Hays observed two inmates running with what looked to be shanks and saw a third inmate stumble downstairs with blood on his back.
Jorge Renberto Ventura stabbed to death at Hays State Prison Case detail
Chattooga County Coroner Earle Rainwater confirmed that Jorge Renberto Ventura was stabbed in the neck and back in his cell by another inmate at Hays State Prison. The Chattanooga Times Free Press reported the death occurred on a Saturday, with the article posted June 14, 2021.
Murder at Hays State Prison on March 19, 2020 Case detail
The Department of Corrections had been investigating a murder that happened on March 19th, 2020 while Timothy Teasley was incarcerated at Hays State Prison.
Hays held some maximum-security inmates (1999) Policy
GDC's 1999 annual report lists Hays SP among facilities that 'also hold some maximum-security inmates' alongside Arrendale SP, Augusta SMP, and Metro SP, under the Level VI maximum security category description.
Hays State Prison staff count in 2018 Statistic
As of January 2018, Hays State Prison had 156 staff members, according to a GDC press release announcing Jacob Beasley as Deputy Warden of Security.
156 staff
GDC signed $1 million emergency contract in February 2013 to replace Hays cell door locks Case detail
Three years after an internal audit reported problems with locks, the Georgia Department of Corrections signed a $1 million emergency contract in February 2013 to replace cell door locks at Hays State Prison.
Hays 2-year maintenance total and in-house/contractor split Statistic
A State Auditor report on Maintenance of State Prisons shows Hays State Prison had a 2-year maintenance total of $1,750,434.87, with $1,288,498.35 (73.6%) in-house and $461,936.52 (26.4%) contractor.
$1.8M USD
Hays included in Phase II energy performance contracting upgrades Policy
GDC's Phase II energy performance contracting infrastructure upgrades covered five sites including Hays State Prison, Arrendale, Wilcox, GDCP and GSP.
Sept. 1, 2012 incident: inmate stabbed multiple times in back with sharp metal Case detail
An incident report cited in the MacClain lawsuit states that on Sept. 1, 2012, an officer at Hays witnessed an inmate approach another inmate from behind and stab him in the back multiple times with a sharp piece of metal.
Death of James Cannon at Hays State Prison under investigation Case detail
James Cannon, 48, an inmate at Hays State Prison, died after an incident on Saturday, October 25, 2025. On Friday, October 31, 2025, the Chattooga County Coroner's office confirmed that the GDC was actively investigating the circumstances.
Hays is Level 5 Close security with Tier I/II segregation units Policy
A PREA audit report for Hays State Prison states Hays State Prison is a Level 5 Close security prison serving the Department through housing and managing some of the state's most challenging offenders, and that Tier I and II segregation units are utilized for Protective Custody and problematic offenders.
Source
Hays State Prison on partial lockdown as of July 2013 after three prisoner deaths Finding
As of July 2013, Hays State Prison remained on partial lockdown, meaning prisoners' movements were limited, after three prisoners died there within a little over a month between December and January.
Hays gross square footage Statistic
A State Auditor report on Maintenance of State Prisons lists Hays State Prison with 370,654 gross square feet.
370,654 square feet
Chattooga County sought 7-acre portion of former GBI Crime Lab at Hays Policy
Board of Corrections minutes record a resolution for Chattooga County's transfer request of the GBI Crime Lab at Hays State Prison, describing the property as a portion of Hays State Prison previously the 5.25 acre Georgia Bureau of Investigations Northwest Crime Lab, with Chattooga County interested in acquiring a seven (7) acre portion of the parcel.
Oct. 7, 2012 incident: bleeding man collapsed after being stabbed in chest, shoulder, head Case detail
An incident report cited in the MacClain lawsuit states that on Oct. 7, 2012, a bleeding man collapsed on the sidewalk at Hays after being stabbed in the chest, shoulder and head.
Georgia Supreme Court reverses murder conviction due to visible shackles Legal fact
The Georgia Supreme Court reversed the murder conviction of a man charged with orchestrating the attack of a fellow Hays State Prison inmate in 2011; at their trial in 2016, Esco Hill and his codefendant Hjalmar Rodriguez objected to the visibility of their shackles and requested their removal.
A Building houses administrative segregation; buildings typically 4 dorms Policy
A PREA audit report for Hays State Prison states the facility's buildings typically house 4 dormitories each, and that A Building houses administrative segregation, requiring one officer per unit (four officers assigned).
Source
Southern Center for Human Rights reported prisoners slept in unassigned cells at Hays Finding
The Southern Center for Human Rights complained that prisoners at Hays State Prison routinely slept in cells to which they were not assigned and were able to move undetected across the prison campus, with gang leaders exercising control over housing assignments.
Hays capacity per maintenance audit Statistic
A State Auditor report on Maintenance of State Prisons lists Hays State Prison with a capacity of 1,698 and Close security level.
1,698 inmates
Attorney arrest at Hays State Prison reported to Board of Corrections Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes record that Mr. Wolfe's report discussed "an Attorney arrest at Hays State Prison," along with a Contract Counselor arrest at Wheeler Correctional Facility and a Juvenile Civilian arrest at Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison.
Source
Damion MacClain found unresponsive in dorm A after 1 a.m. fight on Christmas night Case detail
Guards responding to a fight around 1 a.m. in dorm A at Hays found Damion MacClain, who was serving time on two armed robbery convictions, face down on a bed and unresponsive, an incident report shows; the fight broke out after prisoners should have been locked in their cells.
Hays modular housing expansion: 126 beds, $20,173,811 contract Policy
Records associated with the Hays State Prison modular housing project indicate the expansion called for two 63-bed modular housing units, providing 126 additional beds, with a base contract amount of $20,173,811.
Lawsuit alleges supervisors warned inmates of shakedowns Legal fact
The lawsuit alleges that two supervisors -- Deputy Warden Shay Hatcher and Capt. Timothy Clark -- contributed to the increase in violence at Hays State Prison by warning inmates of upcoming shakedowns for contraband weapons.
PREA audit: designated capacity 1,101; current population 1,029 Statistic
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison records Designated Facility Capacity as 1101 and Current Population of Facility as 1029.
1,029 people vs. 1,101 designated facility capacity
Source
184 of 442 locks failed inspection at Hays State Prison in September state audit Statistic
A state audit in September found that 184 locks failed out of 442 locks inspected at Hays State Prison. Inspectors reported a 'high number of cell door locks that will not deadlock.' Other state prisons also struggled with locks, the AJC found in a review of audits at each of the state's highest-security prisons.
184 locks failed vs. 442 locks inspected
PREA audit cycle 3: 982 total inmates on first day of onsite audit Statistic
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison recorded 982 total inmates/residents/detainees in the facility as of the first day of the onsite portion of the audit.
982 inmates
Hays cost per inmate per maintenance audit Statistic
A State Auditor report on Maintenance of State Prisons lists Hays State Prison with a calculated cost per inmate of $515.44 and cost per square foot of $2.36.
$515.44 USD per inmate
Commissioner Oliver visited Hays State Prison (2024) Policy
Board of Corrections minutes record that Commissioner Tyrone Oliver's Commissioner's Report discussed "the facility visits at Walker State Prison and Hays State Prison."
MacClain was second prisoner killed in a week; two more died in eight-week span before warden ousted Case detail
Damion MacClain was the second prisoner killed in a week at Hays State Prison in December 2012; he was found stabbed, strangled and beaten at the hands of other inmates, and two more men would die in an eight-week span before the Department of Corrections ousted the warden and funneled millions of dollars to fix broken cell doors and harden cells.
Alfred Days lawsuit names Warden Crickmar and Deputy Warden Hammock Legal fact
A lawsuit by former Hays State inmate Alfred Days, who says he was raped, named Hays State Warden Scott Crickmar, Deputy Warden Alisa Hammock, and a member of the medical department as defendants.
Two inmates charged with murder of Nathaniel Reynolds Case detail
Two inmates at Hays State Prison, identified by GBI spokesman John Bankhead as Ricardo Beltran-Gonzales and Leonardo Ramos Rodriques, were charged with murder in the killing of fellow inmate Nathaniel Reynolds.
PREA audit: 1,129 inmates admitted in past 12 months Statistic
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison records the number of inmates admitted to the facility during the past 12 months as 1129.
1,129 people
Source
Alisa Hammock promoted to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Hays State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the promotion of Alisa Hammock to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Hays State Prison, effective January 16, 2014.
GDC spokeswoman said locks a concern for years given increasingly violent prison population Finding
A spokeswoman for the Georgia Department of Corrections said locks had been a concern for several years, 'especially given the increasingly violent prison population.'
PREA audit cycle 3: design capacity 1101, current population 958, average daily population 982 Statistic
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison records Designed facility capacity as 1101, Current population of facility as 958, and Average daily population for the past 12 months as 982.
1,101 design capacity vs. 958 current population
Hays officer Nicholas Grindle arrested for smuggling drugs and phones Case detail
A thirty-one-year-old corrections officer, Nicholas Matthew Grindle, who worked at Hays State Prison in Trion, was arrested by Georgia Department of Corrections authorities on January 7th and charged with attempting to smuggle drugs and cell phones into Hays State Prison in Chattooga County; twelve packages wrapped in black electrical tape were found in his locker.
All GDC facilities placed on lockdown after multiple fights June 18 Case detail
All Georgia Department of Corrections facilities were placed on lockdown after multiple fights occurred across GDC facilities the evening of June 18, according to a GDC spokesperson, who said the lockdown was out of an abundance of caution and not uncommon.
Hays guards settle excessive-force suit for $93,000 Legal fact
A lawsuit accusing a dozen prison guards of beating, kicking and knocking out several handcuffed inmates at Hays State Prison was dismissed Friday after officers agreed to pay a $93,000 settlement.
PREA audit: 4 standards exceeded, 42 met, 0 not met Finding
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison found the Number of Standards Exceeded was 4 (115.11; 115.33; 115.34; 115.87), Number of Standards Met was 42, and Number of Standards Not Met was 0.
Source
GDC emergency funding request said Hays inmates defeated cell door locks to conduct assaults Legal fact
GDC's request for emergency funding for the Hays State Prison lock contract stated that inmates at Hays had been able to defeat the locks installed in the cell doors, allowing them to open cell doors after being locked and conduct assaults on others.
Two Hays inmates died of undiagnosed diabetic ketoacidosis three years apart Finding
Two inmates died three years apart at Hays State Prison from the same easily treatable condition, diabetic ketoacidosis, and neither had been diagnosed with diabetes, raising the possibility that signs of the disease had been overlooked.
PREA audit cycle 3 standards: 2 exceeded, 43 met, 0 not met Statistic
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison found the number of standards exceeded was 2, the number of standards met was 43, and the number of standards not met was 0.
2 standards exceeded
Boot camp construction at Hays CI (1992) Policy
GDC's 1992 annual report states that construction of five new inmate boot camps included one at Hays CI, along with Phillips CI and Telfair CI.
Source
GDC suspended visitation through April 10, 2020 in COVID-19 response Policy
GDC's COVID-19 response suspended visitation through April 10, 2020.
SCHR attorney on excessive force at Hays Quote
"We think this recognizes that there is a problem with excessive force at Hays State Prison," said Atteeyah Hollie, an attorney for the Southern Center for Human Rights.
PREA audit: 20 blind spots identified and 20 mirrors installed Finding
In the PREA audit, the auditor and accompanying team identified 20 blind spots at Hays State Prison where installation of a mirror might help mitigate the blind spot, and the facility ordered and installed 20 mirrors in the identified blind spots.
Source
Jacob Beasley promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Hays State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Jacob Beasley to Deputy Warden of Security at Hays State Prison, effective February 1, 2018, responsible for overseeing 156 staff at the facility housing over 1,800 close security male offenders.
GDC plan to harden high-security prisons including Hays, Baldwin, Hancock, Macon, Smith, Telfair, Valdosta and Ware Policy
The Georgia Department of Corrections implemented a plan to 'harden' all of its high-security prisons, which include Hays, Baldwin, Hancock, Macon, Smith, Telfair, Valdosta and Ware state prisons, most of them also scenes of inmates killing inmates in the past year.
Esteban Mosqueda-Romero died after doctor did not return calls Case detail
On Jan. 2, 2014 at Hays State Prison, a nurse caring for Esteban Mosqueda-Romero twice tried to contact Dr. Monica Hill, but Hill, on her day off, did not return the calls; Mosqueda-Romero, suffering from diabetic ketoacidosis, was referred to a hospital after a physician at another facility on call gave the go-ahead, and died the next day.
Officer Tiffany Cook pleaded guilty to smuggling meth and marijuana into Hays Case detail
Tiffany Cook, a former Georgia Department of Corrections officer, pleaded guilty to being paid by a prison inmate to smuggle methamphetamine and marijuana into Hays State Prison located in Trion, Georgia.
GDC offered one free 15-minute phone call weekly from March 14, 2020 via Securus and JPay Policy
GDC's COVID-19 response announced one free fifteen-minute phone call each week beginning March 14, 2020 for each offender, through a partnership with Securus Technologies and JPay.
More than 250 violent inmates transferred out of Hays Case detail
More than 250 violent inmates had been transferred out of Hays State Prison, as reported in a February 10, 2013 article.
PREA audit: 438 allotted positions, 96 vacancies; 268 security positions, 89 vacancies Statistic
Hays State Prison had a total of 438 allotted positions including security and non-security with 96 overall vacancies, and 268 allotted positions for security with 89 vacancies, per a GDC PREA audit.
96 vacancies vs. 438 allotted positions
Source
Shawn Emmons reassigned as Warden at Hays State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the reassignment of Shawn Emmons to Warden at Hays State Prison, effective March 1, 2022, responsible for overseeing all staff members and 1,101 close security male offenders.
Inmate Marion Luke assaulted and killed at Hays State Prison on January 17, 2019 Case detail
GDC's press release dated January 17, 2019 states that at approximately 11:57 a.m. inmate Marion Luke (GDC#1117396) was assaulted by another inmate at Hays State Prison in Trion, Ga., and was pronounced deceased at approximately 12:05 p.m. in the medical unit by the facility physician. GDC investigated the death as a suspected homicide.
Esteban Mosqueda-Romero, 63, died January 2014 after transfer to Rome hospital Case detail
Esteban Mosqueda-Romero, 63, died in January 2014, a day after being transferred to Redmond Regional Medical Center in Rome from Hays State Prison.
PREA audit cycle 3 final report submitted March 11, 2022; Warden Kevin Sprayberry Policy
A GDC PREA facility audit report for Hays State Prison, with final report submitted March 11, 2022, lists the Warden/Jail Administrator/Sheriff/Director as Kevin Sprayberry.
ModCorr modular housing facilities include Hays Policy
GDC's press release announcing the ModCorr MaxMod modular housing project states that the facilities equipped with the modular units are Dodge State Prison, Lee State Prison, Montgomery State Prison and Hays State Prison.
Tiffany Cook sentenced to 7 years 8 months Legal fact
Tiffany Cook, 34, of Summerville, Georgia, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Harold L. Murphy to seven years, eight months in prison to be followed by five years supervised release.
Former Hays officer Mark Edward Jeffery pleaded guilty in April 2019 to federal meth trafficking, sentenced to five years Case detail
Jeffery pleaded guilty in April 2019 to a federal methamphetamine trafficking charge and was later sentenced to five years in federal prison.
Hays security upgrades: electronic cell locks and hardened steel toilets Policy
New security installed at Hays State Prison, including cell doors with electronic and backup manual locking systems and hardened steel toilets replacing porcelain ones that prisoners had broken apart and used as weapons, proved effective enough by May 2013 that officials said prisoners could not breach it.
PREA audit: Hays mission statement Policy
GDC's PREA audit for Hays State Prison states the mission of Hays State Prison is a Close security facility serving the Department through housing and managing some of the state's most challenging offenders.
Source
Christopher McAllister reassigned as Deputy Warden of Security at Hays State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Christopher McAllister to Deputy Warden of Security at Hays State Prison, effective February 1, 2023, responsible for overseeing security staff members and 1,100 medium security male offenders.
New 126-bed modular unit at Hays estimated at $24,155,096 Statistic
The estimated cost for the new 126-bed modular correctional unit under construction at Hays State Prison is $24,155,096.
$24.2M USD
PREA audit cycle 3: 192 Correctional I Officers at Hays Statistic
A GDC PREA facility audit report for Hays State Prison lists 192 Correctional I Officers in the facility's staffing.
192 officers
ModCorr modular housing adds 524 beds total Statistic
GDC's press release states that the ModCorr modular housing project, which includes Hays State Prison among the facilities equipped, adds 524 beds in total.
524 beds
118 grams of 90% pure meth and 150 grams marijuana recovered from officer Cook Statistic
Pursuant to their search of Tiffany Cook at Hays State Prison, correctional officers recovered more than 118 grams of actual methamphetamine with a purity of 90%, and more than 150 grams of marijuana from Cook's vaginal cavity and bra.
118 grams methamphetamine vs. 150 grams marijuana
New federal indictment returned against Mark Edward Jeffery on September 8, 2026 Legal fact
A federal grand jury returned a new indictment against Mark Edward Jeffery on September 8, 2026, charging him with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Jequaski Rashad Whitehead charged with murdering cellmate Case detail
Jequaski Rashad Whitehead, 34, a native of Dougherty County, an inmate at Hays State Prison in Chattooga County, was charged with murder after stabbing his cellmate to death with a homemade knife; he was booked on the assault and murder charge by Department of Corrections officers.
Two guards stabbed during lockdown after Nathaniel Reynolds murder Case detail
After the murder of prisoner Nathaniel Reynolds, Hays State Prison was placed on full lockdown, yet two guards were stabbed while prisoners were supposed to be locked in their cells.
Former Hays State Prison officer indicted for drug smuggling Case detail
Mark Edward Jeffery, a former GDC officer at Hays State Prison, was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 2, 2018, and arraigned on federal charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
GDC Modcorr project at Hays State Prison includes modular units and 400 KW generator Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections heard that GDC is undertaking infrastructure improvements at Hays State Prison as part of the Modcorr project, which includes installation of modular units and supporting systems. The City of Summerville requested a Non-Exclusive Utility Easement to install dedicated natural gas service to the Modcorr addition including a 400 KW generator with a gas demand of 4,231 CFH, new gas piping connections, and a separate gas meter.
GDC announces demolition of Hays annex for 126-bed hardened cell unit Policy
GDC Director of Communications Joan Heath stated that demolition work had begun on the existing annex building at Hays State Prison in advance of installation of a pre-manufactured, hardened prison cell unit that will contain 126 beds.
Hays 2021 Staffing Plan reviewed; recruitment effort with 'The Rebel Radio' to fill vacancies Policy
A GDC PREA facility audit report for Hays State Prison records that Hays State Prison's 2021 Staffing Plan was provided for review, and that the facility had implemented a recruitment effort with 'The Rebel Radio' to fill current vacant positions.
Charles Lee Broady suicide attempt at Hays Case detail
Charles Lee Broady, 41, an inmate at Hays State Prison in Trion, Georgia, tried to kill himself in his dorm at 7 p.m. on Nov. 15, as reported in a Chattanooga Times Free Press article published November 23, 2017.
Officer Voltaire Pierre pleaded guilty to smuggling meth, crack, marijuana, tobacco Case detail
Voltaire Peter Pierre, a former corrections officer at Hays State Prison, pleaded guilty to smuggling methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and marijuana past prison security and into the hands of inmates in exchange for payments.
Hays guard Nicholas Grindle sentenced for meth conspiracy and bribery Case detail
Nicholas Grindle, a Hays State Prison guard, was sentenced for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and bribery.
Beltran-Gonzales and Rodriques charged in Reynolds killing Case detail
The AJC reported that inmate Beltran-Gonzales was serving time for cocaine trafficking with a 2038 release date, and inmate Rodriques was serving time for involuntary manslaughter with a 2018 release date, at the time both were charged with murder in the Reynolds killing at Hays State Prison.
SCHR: daily reports of broken cell doors at Hays Finding
The Southern Center for Human Rights said it received daily calls and letters reporting that cell doors at Hays State Prison remained broken, did not lock, or could be manipulated with a card or a finger, allowing prisoners to roam hallways and enter other cells or buildings.
Contraband found on Hays State Prison officer Case detail
A search of Hays State Prison officer Mark Edward Jeffery's person and belongings found one glass pipe, four cellular phone chargers, four smartphones, two bags containing 190 suspected ecstasy pills, a plastic bag with methamphetamine, and a water bottle with alcohol.
Board of Corrections resolution titled 'Hays State Prison Gas Easement' presented for approval Policy
Georgia's Board of Corrections minutes list a Board resolution presented for approval titled 'Hays State Prison Gas Easement.'
Hays among four prisons on complete lockdown during 2010 strike Case detail
By December 13, 2010, the Georgia Department of Corrections reported that the four prisons with complete strikes, Hays State Prison in Northwest Georgia, Macon State Prison, Telfair State Prison, and Smith State Prison, were in lock-down, and no prisoners were permitted to leave their cells.
PREA audit cycle 3: staffing standard originally non-compliant for undocumented deviations Finding
A GDC PREA facility audit report found that a staffing-related standard at Hays State Prison was originally rated non-compliant because the facility had not consistently documented deviations from the staffing plan.
Kemp recommends four 126-bed modular units Policy
Governor Kemp's announcement of corrections budget recommendations included funding for sitework and construction of four 126-bed modular correctional units to facilitate offender population movement necessary for capital and security improvements.
Pierre smuggled contraband June 2018 to October 1, 2018 arrest Case detail
Beginning in June 2018, and continuing until his arrest on October 1, 2018, Pierre smuggled methamphetamine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and tobacco into Hays State Prison in Trion, Georgia, for distribution to inmates.
Grindle sentenced to 87 months plus three years supervised release Statistic
Grindle, 32, of Summerville, Georgia, was sentenced by United States District Judge William M. Ray, II to 87 months of confinement, followed by three years of supervised release, after being convicted on these charges on November 21, 2024, having pleaded guilty.
87 months
Nathaniel Reynolds ambushed in Hays courtyard Case detail
The Chattanooga Times Free Press reported that the third inmate killed at Hays State Prison in a month's time, 30-year-old Nathaniel Reynolds, was ambushed in the prison's courtyard by at least two other inmates as he was being escorted to another prison building, and that two inmates were charged in connection with Reynolds' death.
Board resolution: Hays Annex and Library buildings to be demolished Policy
GDC Board of Corrections minutes record a resolution for the 'Hays State Prison Building Demo,' stating the Department determined that the Annex and Library buildings at Hays State Prison must be demolished to make way for new construction.
Georgia Supreme Court reversed murder conviction due to visible shackling Legal fact
The Georgia Supreme Court reversed Esco Hill's murder conviction because the trial court committed reversible error by requiring Hill to be visibly shackled for the duration of his six-day trial.
Anthony L. McGhee Jr., 34, died at Hays State Prison March 29, 2020 Case detail
Anthony L. McGhee Jr., 34, died at Hays State Prison on March 29, 2020, of complications of blunt force head trauma and sharp force trauma of torso and extremities, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of Georgia prison homicides.
Heat and hot water cut to striking prisoners in 2010 Finding
The Global Nonviolent Action Database lists 'cutting off heat and hot water to campaigners' as a nonviolent response by opponents, identified as the Georgia Governor, GDC Commissioner Brian Owens, and prison guards, to the Georgia prison strike in which Hays State Prison was one of the facilities with a complete strike placed on lockdown.
PREA audit cycle 3: several priority-one posts not staffed with no deviations noted Finding
A GDC PREA facility audit report for Hays State Prison found several priority-one posts not staffed with no deviations noted, in reviewing deviations from the minimum staffing required.
FY2027 budget: $1,760,207 for five modular unit operations Statistic
The House Budget and Research Office's FY2027 track sheet (Governor's Recommendation) includes a Department of Corrections line item of $1,760,207 to provide funds for operations at five modular correctional units.
$1.8M USD
Pierre charged October 2, 2019 Legal fact
On October 2, 2019, Voltaire Peter Pierre, 39, of Norcross, Georgia, was charged via criminal information with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and marijuana and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on premises where a minor resided.
Grindle sentenced February 10, 2025 after smuggling meth into Hays and taking bribes; falsely claimed combat injury Case detail
Former prison officer Nicholas Grindle was sentenced on February 10, 2025 for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute and bribery, after smuggling methamphetamine into Hays State Prison and taking bribes, and falsely claimed at his sentencing hearing that he had been injured in combat during military service.
Potts and Murdock charged in Lawrence Williams stabbing death Case detail
Arrest records state that Potts and Murdock are charged as party to the crime of murder for aiding and abetting the killing of Lawrence Williams by chasing him down, armed with a weapon, and trapping him on a stairwell where he was stabbed, leading to his death; prison investigators described the October 24th incident as a coordinated attack involving a crudely made knife.
Annex and Library can be demolished without harming other structures Policy
GDC Board of Corrections minutes state the Annex and Library buildings at Hays State Prison can be demolished without harming other structures and must be demolished to make way for new construction.
Hays State Prison inmate killed in 2011 group attack Case detail
Inmate Alford Morris died from stab wounds after being kicked and stabbed by a crowd of inmates who surrounded him in the Hays State Prison yard yelling 'Allahu Akbar' on August 20, 2011.
Jorge Renberto Ventura-Cabrera, 35, died at Hays State Prison June 5, 2021 Case detail
Jorge Renberto Ventura-Cabrera, 35, died at Hays State Prison on June 5, 2021, of stab wounds to the neck, torso and upper extremities. An incident report showed two other inmates involved, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's homicide list.
Tactical squads deployed to Macon and Hays during 2010 strike Case detail
At Macon and Hays State Prisons in particular, during the Georgia prison strike, tactical squads arrived in response to the strike.
PREA audit cycle 3: HR Specialist 1 position; total staffing 268 Statistic
A GDC PREA facility audit report for Hays State Prison's security-division staffing table lists an HR Specialist position and a total of 268.
268 staff
Amended FY2026 budget: $880,104 for five modular unit operations Statistic
The House Budget and Research Office's Amended FY2026 track sheet (Governor's Recommendation) includes a Department of Corrections line item of $880,104 to provide funds for operations at five modular correctional units.
$880,104 USD
Freddie Talley stabbed to death at Hays May 6; seven weapons recovered Case detail
The AJC reported that Freddie Talley was incarcerated at Hays State Prison when he was stabbed to death on May 6, and that the incident led officers to recover seven weapons ranging in length from 9 to 22 inches, according to the incident report.
Grindle case investigated by DEA, GDC Office of Professional Standards, Lookout Mountain Drug Task Force Finding
This Nicholas Grindle federal case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Georgia Department of Corrections Office of Professional Standards, and the Lookout Mountain, Georgia, Drug Task Force.
Contraband cache recovered near Hays after drone-assisted search Case detail
A large backpack recovered from a wooded area near Hays State Prison contained 21 packages of marijuana and tobacco, more than 20 cell phones, an electric dremel tool with metal cutting blades, a set of security bits, and a handheld driver.
Annex Building approximately 131,261 square feet (BLLIP ID#7317) Statistic
Board of Corrections minutes describe the Annex Building as BLLIP ID#7317, consisting of approximately 131,261 square feet.
131,261 square feet
Co-defendant pleaded guilty mid-trial in Hays State Prison murder case Case detail
Hjalmar Rodriquez, co-defendant in the joint trial for the killing of Hays State Prison inmate Alford Morris, pleaded guilty in the middle of the proceeding.
Quintez Smith, 25, died at Hays State Prison August 29, 2022 Case detail
Quintez Smith, 25, died at Hays State Prison on Aug. 29, 2022, of multiple sharp force injuries, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's homicide list.
Rick Jacobs named acting warden at Hays State Prison; Clay Tatum reassigned Case detail
Department of Corrections Commissioner Brian Owens named Rick Jacobs acting warden at Hays State Prison in Trion, and Hays State warden Clay Tatum was being reassigned within the department.
Rodriguez De Mosqueda v. GDC dismissed with prejudice Legal fact
The N.D. Ga. court entered a Clerk's Entry of Dismissal approving a Stipulation of Dismissal with prejudice in Rodriguez De Mosqueda v. Georgia Department of Corrections.
Hjalmar Rodriguez killed another inmate by stabbing him with a knife during a fight at Hays Case detail
In the 11th Circuit's published opinion in Rodriguez v. Burnside, Hjalmar Rodriguez was imprisoned at Hays State Prison after being convicted of voluntary manslaughter; while there, Rodriguez killed another inmate by stabbing him with a knife during a fight.
Demarco Letroy Statham Jr. arrested near Hays State Prison Case detail
The suspect in the Hays State Prison drone-assisted contraband search was identified as 22-year-old Demarco Letroy Statham Jr. of Atlanta. Chattooga County deputies, Trion Police, Warden Jones and staff set up a perimeter after a suspicious male was seen entering the woods off Underwood Drive carrying a duffle bag; a Sheriff's Investigator launched a thermal drone to locate him.
GDC no longer needs Hays Annex Building Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections' minutes state the Georgia Department of Corrections no longer needs the building referred to as the 'Annex' at Hays State Prison.
Inmate witness testified under plea deal in Hays State Prison murder case Case detail
Inmate Michael Lucas, who had also been indicted for Alford Morris's murder at Hays State Prison, testified pursuant to a plea deal after pleading guilty to aggravated assault and receiving a ten-year sentence with five years to be served on probation.
Talore Stihles Blackford, 31, died at Hays State Prison October 28, 2023 Case detail
Talore Stihles Blackford, 31, died at Hays State Prison on Oct. 28, 2023, of multiple stab wounds to the neck, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's homicide list.
DOJ documents naked inmate held in Hays suicide-watch cell after assault Finding
The DOJ findings report describes an incarcerated individual placed in a suicide-watch cell at Hays after being assaulted and suffering a cut to his eye; all his property had been stolen by other incarcerated individuals, and he was held naked in the suicide cell with no mattress or blanket. After he continuously beat on the suicide-cell window, staff moved him to administrative segregation for refusing housing.
Three inmates died at Hays State Prison since mid-December before warden change Statistic
Hays State warden Clay Tatum was being reassigned within the department after three inmates had died at Hays State Prison since mid-December.
3 deaths
41% of inspected locks failed at Hays and Valdosta Statistic
GPB/AP reported that an internal audit found about 41 percent of inspected locks failed at both Hays and Valdosta State Prison.
41%
Two correction officers stabbed at Hays on a Saturday night Case detail
AM 1180 Radio reported that several reliable sources told it two correction officers were stabbed at Hays State Prison on Saturday night, and that the officers suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Eleventh Circuit decided Rodriguez v. Burnside, No. 20-11218, opinion filed 06/30/2022 Legal fact
The Eleventh Circuit decided case No. 20-11218, Hjalmar Rodriguez, Jr. v. Edward H. Burnside, et al., with the opinion dated filed 06/30/2022.
Statewide GDC lockdown after gang-related fights at Hays and other prisons (April 2026) Case detail
All GDC prisons, including Hays State Prison, were placed on lockdown after gang-related fights at Smith, Wilcox, Hays, and Valdosta State Prisons injured multiple inmates, per an article published Friday, April 3, 2026.
Inmate testified Morris had reputation for attacking Muslim inmates Finding
Inmate Michael Lucas testified that Alford Morris, the Hays State Prison inmate killed in a 2011 group attack, had a reputation for attacking Muslim inmates.
Jeremy Edward Price, 36, died at Hays State Prison March 2, 2024 Case detail
Jeremy Edward Price, 36, died at Hays State Prison on March 2, 2024, of stab wounds to the neck and chest, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's homicide list.
GDC correctional officer vacancy ~50% systemwide, over 70% at ten largest facilities Statistic
According to the DOJ's Georgia prisons investigation report, staffing levels vary across the prisons, with correctional officer vacancy rates around 50% systemwide and over 70% at ten of the largest facilities.
50% vs. 70 percent vacancy at ten largest facilities
PREA audit cycle 4 onsite audit started April 14, 2025 Methodology note
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison had an onsite audit starting April 14, 2025.
Four Hays inmate deaths in one month, three homicides per GDC Statistic
Chattooga County radio station WZQZ reported that over the past month, four inmates had died at Hays State Prison, with three of those deaths being homicides according to the Georgia Department of Corrections.
4 inmate deaths vs. 3 homicides
Hays inmates and accomplice indicted on federal drug trafficking and bribery charges Legal fact
Octavius Henry, Alexis Jay Stokley, and Khalid Eugene Mouton, inmates at Hays State Prison, along with Jeffery Deroy Lewis, an inmate at Valdosta State Prison, and accomplice Jessica Corley Stokley, were indicted and arraigned on federal drug trafficking and bribery charges.
Five inmates hospitalized after fights at Smith, Wilcox, Hays, Valdosta Statistic
A GDC spokesperson told WGXA that fights at Smith, Wilcox, Hays, and Valdosta State Prisons resulted in a total of five inmates being sent to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries on Wednesday, prompting all GDC prisons to go under lockdown.
5 inmates hospitalized
Freddie Lee Talley, 31, died at Hays State Prison May 6, 2024, with six sharpened weapons used Case detail
Freddie Lee Talley, 31, died at Hays State Prison on May 6, 2024, of a stab wound to the chest. An incident report showed a murder in which weapons used included sharpened implements of 22-inch, 20-inch, 12-inch, 14-inch, 10.5-inch and 21.5-inch lengths, with four other prisoners involved, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's homicide list.
Hays warden Clay Tatum replaced 24 hours after fourth inmate killing Case detail
Roughly 24 hours after a fourth Hays State Prison inmate was killed, Georgia corrections officials ordered the warden of the maximum-security facility replaced.
PREA audit cycle 4: design capacity 1101, current population 1085 Statistic
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison records Designed facility capacity as 1101 and Current population of facility as 1085.
1,101 design capacity vs. 1,085 current population
Hays FY1991 average inmate count Statistic
The Georgia State Board of Corrections' FY1991 annual report's Costs Per Inmate Day table lists Hays CI with an average inmate count of 457.
457 inmates
Source
Officer and sergeant stabbed around 1 AM during inmate altercation Case detail
Chattooga County radio station WZQZ reported that the stabbing at Hays Prison happened around 1 AM on Sunday morning when a correction officer and a sergeant were stabbed during an altercation involving an inmate.
Hays inmates used contraband cell phones and coded email to arrange contraband drops at officer Pierre's home Case detail
The Hays State Prison inmates communicated via contraband cell phones and through coded email messages sent via the prison email system with conspirators outside the prison to arrange for drugs and other contraband to be dropped at the home of Pierre, a Hays State Prison corrections officer who later smuggled the items into the prison.
GDC: incidents believed gang-related; lockdown 'out of an abundance of caution' Finding
WGXA reported that GDC said all of the incidents involving Smith, Wilcox, Hays, Valdosta and Dooly State Prisons were believed to be 'gang-related,' and that 'out of an abundance of caution,' all GDC facilities had been placed on lockdown until further notice.
Hays State Prison recorded six homicides since 2020 per AJC list Statistic
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's list of those killed in Georgia's prison system counts six homicides at Hays State Prison since 2020: Anthony L. McGhee Jr. (2020), Jorge Renberto Ventura-Cabrera (2021), Quintez Smith (2022), Talore Stihles Blackford (2023), Jeremy Edward Price (2024), and Freddie Lee Talley (2024).
6 homicides
PREA audit cycle 4 standards: 0 exceeded, 45 met, 0 not met Statistic
A GDC PREA audit of Hays State Prison found 0 standards exceeded, 45 standards met, and 0 standards not met.
0 standards exceeded
Hays FY1991 inmate days Statistic
The Georgia State Board of Corrections' FY1991 annual report's Costs Per Inmate Day table lists Hays CI with 166,805 inmate days for the fiscal year.
166,805 inmate days
Source
Inmate Marion Luke assaulted at 11:57 a.m.; death investigated as homicide Case detail
A GDC spokesperson said Hays State Prison inmate Marion Luke was assaulted by another inmate around 11:57 a.m. on a Thursday, and GDC was investigating his death as a homicide.
Hays remained on limited lockdown after Warden Scott Crickmar appointed in July Policy
After warden Scott Crickmar was appointed in July, Hays State Prison remained on limited lockdown, meaning prisoners were still escorted to and from the chow hall and limited in where they could go.
Kevin Sprayberry reassigned as Warden at Hays, effective July 1, 2016 Case detail
On July 1, 2016, GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the reassignment of Kevin Sprayberry to Warden at Hays State Prison, effective July 1, 2016.
Hays population 1,097, high-security, per AJC staffing analysis Statistic
Hays State Prison is a high-security facility with 1,097 inmates, per the AJC's prison staffing analysis.
1,097 inmates
PREA audit cycle 4: 323 filled security positions, 104 security vacancies; 12 filled/12 vacant non-security Statistic
A GDC PREA facility audit of Hays State Prison found current staffing levels that included 323 filled positions and 104 vacancies for security roles, and 12 filled versus 12 vacant non-security positions.
323 filled security positions vs. 104 security vacancies
Hays opened October 1990 Finding
The Georgia State Board of Corrections' FY1991 annual report states Hays opened in October 1990 and was among the institutions in start-up phase that fiscal year.
Source
Hays warden oversaw 285 staff and 1,100 close security male offenders (2016) Statistic
As Warden at Hays State Prison, Kevin Sprayberry was to be responsible for overseeing 285 staff members and 1,100 close security male offenders.
285 staff members vs. 1,100 close security male offenders
Hays correctional officer vacancy rate 67.42% Statistic
The AJC's prison staffing analysis found a correctional officer vacancy rate of 67.42% at Hays State Prison.
67.4%
Hays PREA staffing plan built around daily inmate population of 1,273 Statistic
Hays State Prison's PREA staffing plan reviewed in a GDC facility audit is built around a daily inmate population of 1,273, as verified by both the Facility Head and PAQ.
1,273 inmates
Fourth Hays prisoner death reported by WRCB-TV Case detail
WRCB-TV (Chattanooga) reported that another prisoner from Hays State Prison had died, following a period during which guards had been stabbed and inmates killed, in an incident the state said happened at a transfer prison in Butts County, Georgia.
Eight Georgia prisons locked down in June 2016 due to gang tensions Case detail
GDC reported that between June 19-24, 2016, a total of eight facilities statewide were placed on lockdown due to rising tensions among gangs; Smith and Telfair State Prisons remained on lockdown until further notice while Autry, Calhoun, and Ware State Prisons had lockdown partially lifted on July 7.
Hays living areas: dorms, Fast Track, Tier I/II, fire station, infirmary Finding
The AJC's prison staffing investigation lists Hays State Prison's living areas as seven general population dorms with 64 beds per dorm, one Fast Track building housing 256, six Tier II dorms consisting of 218 beds, three Tier I dorms with 160 beds, an outside fire station with 10 beds, and an infirmary with nine beds.
Hays State Prison officer turnover: 23% (2010), 29% (2011), 35% (2012), 42% (2013) Trend
A 2013 Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit of GDC and DJJ facility turnover rates lists Hays State Prison's officer turnover rate as 23% in 2010, 29% in 2011, 35% in 2012, and 42% in 2013.
AFY2025 appropriation: $80,220,240 for four 126-bed modular units Statistic
An AFY2025 appropriations bill enacted $80,220,240 for sitework and construction of four 126-bed modular correctional units to facilitate offender population movement necessary for capital and security improvements.
$80.2M USD
Source
GDC heat mitigation measures during 2016 lockdown Policy
During a statewide facilities lockdown in summer 2016, GDC addressed excessive heat by allowing offenders to wear t-shirts instead of state-issued button-up uniforms, using larger box fans in addition to wall-mounted fans, and delivering ice with each meal.
Hays houses about 750 Level II mental health offenders Statistic
The AJC reported that Hays State Prison houses about 750 Level II mental health offenders throughout the prison.
750 offenders
Scott Crickmar reassigned as Warden of Hays State Prison effective July 1, 2013 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the reassignment of Scott Crickmar as Warden of Hays State Prison effective July 1, 2013.
Contraband arrest at Hays: Nikita Pitts Case detail
At Hays State Prison, visitor Nikita Pitts was arrested by the Chattooga County Sheriff's Office for attempting to enter the facility with contraband hidden under the insoles of her shoes.
Lawrence Williams killed in fight at Hays; GBI investigating Case detail
An inmate named Lawrence Williams from Lowndes County, Georgia, was killed in a fight at Hays State Prison in Trion; the cause of death was under investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed Williams' death, with his body sent for further examination.
Hays warden oversees 353 staff and 1,683 close security male inmates (2013) Statistic
As Warden of Hays State Prison, Scott Crickmar was to be responsible for overseeing 353 staff members and 1,683 close security male inmates.
353 staff vs. 1,683 close security male inmates
Former Hays officer Mark Edward Jeffery sentenced to five years for smuggling narcotics Case detail
Mark Edward Jeffery, 34, of Fairmount, Georgia, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Harold L. Murphy to five years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment; a federal grand jury indicted Jeffery and he pleaded guilty on February 11, 2019.
GDC suspended statewide visitation through April 10, 2020 following Kemp directive Policy
Following Governor Kemp's directive, GDC suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide, with the suspension in effect through April 10, 2020, while offenders would continue to have access to loved ones via mail, phone calls and GOAL devices.
$650,000 Broady Jr. settlement for GDCP slashing Case detail
The AJC's settlements investigation attributes the $650,000 (2021) Broady Jr. settlement to an incident at Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison in which six gang members with razor blades slashed his face.
Mark Edward Jeffery began as Hays correctional officer April 17, 2017 Case detail
On April 17, 2017, Mark Edward Jeffery began working as a correctional officer at Hays State Prison in Trion, Georgia.
Broady Jr. moved to Hays while lawsuit pending Case detail
The AJC reported a $650,000 settlement in 2021 for Charles Lee Broady Jr., who, after being slashed by six gang members with razor blades at Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison, was moved to Hays State Prison while his lawsuit over the slashing was pending.
Scott Crickmar listed as Southwest Regional Director Finding
The Georgia Board of Corrections' meeting minutes list Scott Crickmar as Southwest Regional Director.
Rick Jacobs left GDC for State Board of Pardons & Paroles Finding
Rick Jacobs, Director of Facilities Operations, had accepted another position at the State Board of Pardons & Paroles, per the Board of Corrections' meeting minutes.
Sources
112 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
2010 Georgia Prison Strike
[case]
Adrian Murdock
[person]
Alexis Jay Stokley
[person]
Alford Morris
[person]
Alfred Days
[person]
Alisa Hammock
[person]
Anthony Dewberry
[person]
Anthony L. McGhee Jr.
[person]
Aramark
[organization]
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
[organization]
Atteeyah Hollie
[person]
Beltran-Gonzales
[person]
Board of Corrections
[organization]
Brian Kemp
[person]
Brian Owens
[person]
Brian P. Kemp
[person]
Cecil Williams
[person]
Charles Lee Broady Jr.
[person]
Chattooga County
[facility]
Chattooga County Coroner's Office
[organization]
Chattooga County Grand Jury
[case]
Chattooga County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Christopher McAllister
[person]
City of Summerville
[organization]
Clay Tatum
[person]
Dale Mitchell
[person]
Damion MacClain
[person]
David Omar Tyler
[person]
Davius Taylor
[person]
Demarco Letroy Statham Jr.
[person]
Derrick Stubbs
[person]
Diego Vega
[person]
Dodge State Prison
[facility]
Dooly State Prison
[facility]
Drug Enforcement Administration
[organization]
Earle Rainwater
[person]
Edward H. Burnside
[person]
Esco Hill
[person]
Esteban Mosqueda-Romero
[person]
Freddie Lee Talley
[person]
Freddie Talley
[person]
Gabriel Illa
[person]
GDC Office of Professional Standards
[organization]
Georgia Board of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Georgia Bureau of Investigation Northwest Crime Lab
[facility]
Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections Office of Professional Standards
[organization]
Georgia Department of Public Health
[organization]
Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison
[facility]
Georgia Procurement Registry
[organization]
Georgia Safety Fire Commissioner
[organization]
Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission
[organization]
Gregory C. Dozier
[person]
GSFIC
[organization]
H.B. 973 (AFY2026)
[legislation]
Harold L. Murphy
[person]
Hays 126-bed modular unit construction
[program]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
Hector DeJesus Torres
[person]
Hill v. State
[case]
Hjalmar Rodriguez
[person]
Hjalmar Rodriquez
[person]
Homer Bryson
[person]
Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia
[organization]
Jackson v. Owens
[case]
Jacob Beasley
[person]
James Cannon
[person]
Jeffery Deroy Lewis
[person]
Jequaski Rashad Whitehead
[person]
Jeremy Edward Price
[person]
Jeremy McElhaney
[person]
Jessica Corley Stokley
[person]
Joan Heath
[person]
John Bankhead
[person]
Jorge Renberto Ventura
[person]
Jorge Renberto Ventura-Cabrera
[person]
Joshua Jones
[person]
JPay
[organization]
Kendrick Monquell Cheeves
[person]
Kevin Sprayberry
[person]
Khalid Eugene Mouton
[person]
Lawrence Williams
[person]
Lee State Prison
[facility]
Leonardo Ramos Rodriques
[person]
Lookout Mountain Drug Task Force
[organization]
Lori Benoit
[person]
MacClain v. Owens
[case]
Macon State Prison
[facility]
Marion Luke
[person]
Mark Edward Jeffery
[person]
Mark Schrader
[person]
Melvin Johnson
[person]
Michael Lucas
[person]
ModCorr
[program]
Modcorr project
[program]
Monica Hill
[person]
Montez Potts
[person]
Montgomery State Prison
[facility]
Murdock
[person]
Nathaniel Reynolds
[person]
Nicholas Grindle
[person]
Nicholas Matthew Grindle
[person]
Nikita Pitts
[person]
Octavius Henry
[person]
Paulding Probation Detention Center
[facility]
Paulding Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Center
[program]
Pierre
[person]
Potts
[person]
Quintez Deshon Smith
[person]
Quintez Smith
[person]
Redmond Regional Medical Center
[facility]
Ricardo Beltran-Gonzales
[person]
Rick Jacobs
[person]
Rodriguez De Mosqueda v. Georgia Department of Corrections
[case]
Rodriguez v. Burnside
[case]
Rodriques
[person]
RoHonda MacClain
[person]
Roman Christian Higdon
[person]
Scott Crickmar
[person]
Securus Technologies
[organization]
Shawn Emmons
[person]
Shay Hatcher
[person]
Smith State Prison
[facility]
Sonny Perdue
[person]
Southern Center for Human Rights
[organization]
State Board of Pardons & Paroles
[organization]
Talore Stihles Blackford
[person]
Telfair State Prison
[facility]
Tiffany Cook
[person]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Timothy Clark
[person]
Timothy Teasley
[person]
Timothy Turner
[person]
Trion Police Department
[organization]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia
[organization]
U.S. Department of Justice
[organization]
Voltaire Peter Pierre
[person]
Warden Jones
[person]
Wilcox State Prison
[facility]
William M. Ray, II
[person]