Phillips State Prison (Buford): capacity, deaths and violence, prosecutions, lawsuits, staffing, money and audits
Phillips State Prison: the public record, 2015 to 2026
This collection sets out facts from public sources on the subject in its title, drawn from Georgia, federal sources, national and multi-state sources and other sources. Each entry gives a short statement, the exact passage from the source that supports it, and the source's title, web address and the date it was retrieved. Searches of a source that found no match are listed too, with the wordings that were tried. The entries record what each source said when it was retrieved. They aren't a complete account of the subject, and they don't add analysis or conclusions.
Where this research is used
This page is a research collection: individual facts drawn from the sources listed further down, each traced to where it came from. A research topic brings many collections together into one overview of an issue. The facts on this page feed these 5 topics; open one to see how they fit with the rest of the evidence.
Budget & Spending
Georgia's prison budget rose from $1.53 billion in fiscal 2024 to an all-time peak of $1.91 billion in fiscal 2025, then settled near $1.79 billion for fiscal 2027. Across that arc the money moved toward health contracts, private beds and surveillance technology while the state-operated prison program, food service and education shrank. GPS's own budget series has since corrected several of its earlier headline claims, and the gap between what the state appropriates and what it can show for it remains the central accountability problem.
11,375 data points
Mortality & Deaths in Custody
Georgia's prison system recorded at least 1,915 deaths in custody between January 1, 2020, and the registry cutoff — a floor, not a total, because the Georgia Department of Corrections reports deaths roughly two months late and stopped publishing cause of death in March 2024. Homicides rose from a ceiling of nine a year (2011–2018) to 142 across 2018–2023, a 95.8% increase in the last three years, while the department's own mortality data classified obvious homicides as unknown and medical examiners recorded at least 44 overdose deaths the department had labeled natural or undetermined. The same reporting collapse now covers suicide, heat death, and medical neglect — the categories in which the state's own records show people dying unattended in cells for days.
8,758 data points
Oversight & Accountability
Georgia runs one of the largest prison systems in the United States with no independent body empowered to inspect it, and every internal mechanism that might substitute for outside oversight — the Board of Corrections, the Office of Professional Standards, the inmate grievance system, PREA audits, ACA accreditation, and the department's own mortality reviews — is staffed, funded, and answered to by the agency it would police. The result is a documented pattern in which the only functioning accountability actor has been the federal government: a Justice Department investigation opened in 2016, expanded twice, and concluded in October 2024 with a finding that Georgia's prisons violate the Eighth Amendment, followed by no consent decree, no enforcement action, and no new federal prosecution of prison staff. This page collects what the record shows about how oversight fails in Georgia, how the failures are measured, and what the evidence says an actual oversight mechanism would require.
16,182 data points
Staffing Crisis
Georgia's prison system has run correctional officer vacancy rates above 50 percent since 2021, with ten of its largest facilities above 70 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Justice's October 2024 findings and the state's own budget testimony. Turnover compounds the shortfall: 82.7 percent of officers hired between January 2021 and November 2024 left within a year, and Georgia ranks last among the 50 states in correctional officer pay. Federal investigators, state-hired consultants and the Georgia Senate Study Committee have each identified staffing as the primary mechanism behind the violence, delayed medical response and unchecked gang control documented inside the system.
9,994 data points
Violence & Safety
Georgia's prisons kill people at several times the national rate, and the state's own records understate how often. A three-year federal civil rights investigation concluded in October 2024 that Georgia violates the Eighth Amendment by failing to protect incarcerated people from violence and sexual abuse, finding "near-constant life-threatening violence" and gang control of housing units. The documented record runs from 142 homicides in six years to more than 1,400 violent incidents in sixteen months — and a death registry that keeps growing.
11,037 data points
Key Findings
The most impactful data from this research collection. Tap a card for the full finding and its source.
The finding
The DOJ found that correctional officer vacancy rates were around 50% systemwide and over 70% at ten of the largest Georgia prison facilities.
The finding
DOJ's findings report states that in May 2023 DOJ interviewed the hostage victim at Phillips State Prison, who reported that he had been held and tortured for almost four days, had been stabbed from behind, his eye was pierced, and he suffered a traumatic brain injury.
The finding
More than 45 current and former Georgia Department of Corrections officers and contract correctional officers were charged in seven separate federal indictments with smuggling contraband into prisons and accepting bribe payments in exchange for providing protection for drug deals that were part of a federal undercover operation.
The finding
No criminal charges had been filed against the guards over McBride's killing, but the circumstances had attracted DOJ attention as part of its ongoing investigation of the Georgia prison system.
The finding
Quafabian McBride, 19, was one of five men slain last year at Phillips State Prison, the most for any Georgia Department of Corrections facility.
The finding
McBride was in the lockdown unit at Phillips State Prison when he was killed Sept. 30, and he was there because officers arranged for it, according to AJC's evidence.
The finding
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver said Phillips State Prison presents a special challenge because nearly all its inmates are considered violent and more than half require some type of mental health treatment.
The finding
DOJ's findings report states that in 2022, Phillips State Prison had the most homicides of any Georgia prison that year, five; there were four homicides at Macon that year.
All Data Points
189 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Shay Hatcher promoted to Warden of Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Shay Hatcher to Warden at Phillips State Prison, effective October 1, 2018.
Ahmed Holt promoted from Phillips Warden to Assistant Regional Director Case detail
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Ahmed Holt, Warden at Phillips State Prison, to Assistant Regional Director of the North Region with Facilities Operations, effective January 1, 2018.
J. Kevin Perry promoted to Warden at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of J. Kevin Perry to Warden at Phillips State Prison effective June 16, 2021.
Phillips State Prison had most homicides of any Georgia prison in 2022 Statistic
DOJ's findings report states that in 2022, Phillips State Prison had the most homicides of any Georgia prison, with five, while Macon State Prison had four that year.
5 homicides vs. 4 Macon State Prison homicides in 2022
Phillips State Prison designated as Acute Care Facility/Regional Infirmary Policy
GDC SOP 507.04.42 lists Phillips State Prison among facilities designated as Acute Care Facilities or Regional Infirmaries providing 24-hour nursing care, between Macon State Prison and Pulaski State Prison.
GCI Print Plant equipment investment at Phillips State Prison FY25 Statistic
GDC's FY2025 annual report states that Georgia Correctional Industries made improvements within the Phillips State Prison Print Plant during FY25 with the purchase and installation of print-related equipment including a Perfecta 45" Cutter, Duplo Booklet Maker and two Canon printers, with an anticipated 25.66% return on investment by the end of FY26.
25.7%
Source
Phillips SP combined FY10-FY11 maintenance expenditures Statistic
The State Auditor special examination 'Maintenance of State Prisons' reports Phillips SP's combined FY10 and FY11 maintenance expenditures as a 2-Year Total of $1,318,289.47, consisting of $1,167,286.78 in-house and $151,002.69 contractor, at 88.5% in-house and 11.5% contractor.
$1.3M USD
Gwinnett DA opened investigation into Phillips officer punching inmate after leaked video Case detail
The Gwinnett County District Attorney's Office began an investigation into a correctional officer at Phillips State Prison who was punching an inmate after becoming aware of the conduct through a leaked inmate video. The DA's release is dated Lawrenceville, Ga., Aug. 27, 2021, and states the investigation began 'last month' (July 2021).
Phillips State Prison warden oversees 375 staff and 851 inmates (2018) Statistic
As Warden of Phillips State Prison, Shay Hatcher would be responsible for overseeing 375 staff members and 851 special mission medium security inmates.
375 staff members vs. 851 inmates
Phillips State Prison listed as host for mental health and medical missions Policy
GDC's Special and Unique Missions fact sheet lists Phillips State Prison in Buford, Georgia as providing a Supportive Living Unit for Mental Health Offenders and as host facility for Atlanta Medical Center and Phillips TC.
Kevin Perry promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the promotion of Kevin Perry to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison, effective July 16, 2016.
December 17, 2023 stabbing and fire at Phillips State Prison Case detail
On December 17, 2023, an incarcerated person at Phillips State Prison whom DOJ had interviewed earlier in 2023 required hospitalization for six or more stab wounds, and video circulated on social media that same day of a fire set by incarcerated persons the previous day in the sallyport area of a housing unit at Phillips.
Phillips SP in-house maintenance expenditures FY10-FY11 Statistic
Phillips SP's in-house maintenance expenditures for FY10 and FY11 combined totaled $1,167,286.78, representing 88.5% of the 2-year maintenance total.
$1.2M USD
Gwinnett DA: insufficient evidence to prosecute Phillips officer; within use-of-force guidelines Legal fact
Upon conclusion of its review, the Gwinnett County District Attorney's Office determined there was insufficient evidence to criminally prosecute the Phillips State Prison correctional officer seen punching an inmate. The DA found the officer was within use-of-force guidelines, while stating the incident 'as it played out, was profoundly regrettable' and that 'as a community, it is critical that persons who are incarcerated are treated humanely.'
Foothills Education Charter High School operates at Phillips State Prison Policy
A Foothills Education Charter High School is hosted at Phillips State Prison in Buford, Georgia, per a GDC press release describing the facility as the host site of the charter high school.
Aaron Pineiro reassigned as Warden of Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Aaron Pineiro, Warden at Coastal State Prison, to Warden at Phillips State Prison, effective June 16, 2024.
Phillips provides crisis stabilization and acute mental health care Policy
GDC's Special and Unique Missions fact sheet states Phillips State Prison in Buford, Georgia provides Crisis Stabilization and Acute care for the mental health population, a Supportive Living Unit for Mental Health Offenders, and is host facility for Atlanta Medical Center and Phillips TC.
Deshawn Jones reassigned as Warden at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the reassignment of Deshawn Jones to Warden at Phillips State Prison, effective July 1, 2022, following the retirement of his predecessor J. Kevin Perry.
GDC correctional officer vacancy rates systemwide 2021-2023 Statistic
GDC's average correctional officer vacancy rate was 49.3% in 2021, 56.3% in 2022, and 52.5% in 2023, systemwide.
52.5% vs. 49.3 2021 vacancy rate
Phillips SP contractor maintenance expenditures FY10-FY11 Statistic
Phillips SP's contractor maintenance expenditures for FY10 and FY11 combined totaled $151,002.69, representing 11.5% of the 2-year maintenance total.
$151,003 USD
Quote: Gwinnett DA on Phillips officer punching incident Quote
"We do find that the incident, as it played out, was profoundly regrettable. However, the correctional officer was within use of force guidelines. As a community, it is critical that persons who are incarcerated are treated humanely."
Dorothy Andre promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Dorothy Andre, Unit Manager at Phillips State Prison, to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison, effective January 16, 2026.
AJC lists 8 homicides at Phillips State Prison Statistic
AJC's statewide list of Georgia prison homicides reports: "Phillips State Prison: 8 homicides."
8 homicides
DOJ found CO vacancy rates around 50% systemwide, over 70% at ten largest facilities Finding
The DOJ found that correctional officer vacancy rates were around 50% systemwide and over 70% at ten of the largest Georgia prison facilities.
GDC suspended statewide visitation March 2020 Policy
GDC suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide following Governor Kemp's directive, with the suspension in effect through April 10, 2020.
Phillips SP designed facility capacity (PREA audit) Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center lists a designed facility capacity of 1122.
1,122 people
Remona Holloway reassigned to Deputy Warden of Administration at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Remona Holloway, Deputy Warden of Administration at Augusta State Medical Prison, to Deputy Warden of Administration at Phillips State Prison effective November 1, 2025.
Dave Stone homicide at Phillips, Nov. 20, 2021 Case detail
Dave Stone, 61, died Nov. 20, 2021, of closed head trauma with delayed effects; his sister told AJC he had been assaulted in a mental health ward, apparently with two pipes wrapped in a cloth, and was taken off life support after his brain stopped functioning.
DOJ investigated 17 GDC prisons in 2022-2023 Methodology note
DOJ's investigation of Georgia prisons visited 17 GDC prisons between 2022 and 2023, about half of the state prisons.
GDC offered alternative communication during visitation suspension Policy
GDC said offenders would continue to have access to loved ones via mail, phone calls and GOAL devices during the statewide visitation suspension.
Phillips SP current facility population (PREA audit) Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center lists a current population of facility of 1029.
1,029 people
Antonio Turner killed in stabbing at Phillips; suspect Allah Jahmal Ware, 23 Case detail
Antonio Turner, an inmate at Phillips State Prison, was stabbed to death; charges were expected against Allah Jahmal Ware, 23. At the time of the killing, Ware was serving a 30-year sentence for armed robberies and aggravated assault in Walker County, and Turner was serving a 10-year sentence for strong-arm robbery in Cherokee County, according to prison records.
Melinda Carter promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Melinda Carter to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison effective October 1, 2021.
Jamal Cymonne Johnson homicide at Phillips, June 11, 2022 Case detail
Jamal Cymonne Johnson, 32, died June 11, 2022, of stab wounds to the head, injuring the brain, with delayed effects.
Dejuan Cannon charged with felony murder in McBride death Case detail
Dejuan Cannon, 22, was charged with felony murder, aggravated assault and riot in a penal institution in connection with the death of fellow inmate Quafabian McBride at Phillips State Prison.
Phillips State Prison among facilities DOJ visited Finding
Phillips State Prison is named among the GDC prisons DOJ visited as part of its investigation in 2022 and 2023.
Burgest v. Bouchie concerns Phillips State Prison Legal fact
A Northern District of Georgia magistrate judge directed the Clerk to transmit an in forma pauperis order in Akeim Burgest's prisoner civil rights suit to the Warden of Phillips State Prison in Buford, Georgia, confirming the case concerns Phillips State Prison.
First COVID-19 case at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC reported one confirmed COVID-19 case in the offender population at Phillips State Prison in Buford, Georgia; the offender first exhibited flu-like symptoms on March 20 and the COVID-19 test was returned positive on March 26.
Phillips SP staff assigned in last 12 months (PREA audit) Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center lists the number of staff assigned to the facility in the last 12 months as 369.
369 staff
FBI: criminal and corrupt activities found in 11 of 35 state corrections facilities Statistic
In the FBI's Operation Ghost Guard announcement, the FBI's Atlanta Special Agent in Charge stated that criminal and corrupt activities were found in 11 of the 35 state corrections facilities.
11 facilities vs. 35 total state corrections facilities
Phillips State Prison deputy warden oversees more than 832 medium-security male offenders (2021) Statistic
As Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison, Melinda Carter would be responsible for overseeing security staff members at the facility and more than 832 medium-security male offenders.
832 medium-security male offenders
Sidney Sanchez Nealey homicide at Phillips, July 18, 2022 Case detail
Sidney Sanchez Nealey, 22, died July 18, 2022, of stab wounds to the torso.
August 3, 2020 hostage note at Phillips State Prison Case detail
DOJ's findings report, in a sidebar titled 'Repeat Assaults at Phillips,' states that on August 3, 2020, an officer at Phillips State Prison was conducting rounds in a housing unit when an incarcerated person handed him a note stating that an incarcerated person in another cell had been held hostage for days.
Board of Corrections approves utility easements at Phillips State Prison Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections considered a resolution granting the Gwinnett County Water and Sewerage Authority a Permanent Utility Easement and a Temporary Construction Easement at Phillips State Prison for the Cascade Falls Gravity Sewer and Pump Decommissioning Project, determining GDC could accommodate the request without harm to operations.
Source
Phillips State Prison on restricted movement after COVID-19 case Policy
GDC reported that Phillips State Prison was on restricted movement following its COVID-19 case, while offenders continued to have access to medical care, showers, meals and hygiene products.
Phillips SP PREA standards exceeded Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center found the number of standards exceeded to be 5.
5 standards
Quote: FBI Atlanta SAC on Operation Ghost Guard scope Quote
"criminal and corrupt activities were found in 11 of the 35 state corrections facilities"
Courtney McDay promoted to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Courtney McDay to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Phillips State Prison effective October 16, 2021.
Jacob Kendall Daniels homicide at Phillips, Aug. 13, 2022 Case detail
Jacob Kendall Daniels, 19, died Aug. 13, 2022, of a stab wound to the neck, shoulder and arm.
Correctional officer Geramy Antonio Brown fired after McBride killing Case detail
Correctional officer Geramy Antonio Brown was fired for 'violating employee standards of conduct, staff misconduct and failure to comply with an investigation,' days after the killing of Phillips State Prison inmate Quafabian McBride; another correctional officer, Javaris Jones, was suspended.
Hostage victim held and tortured for almost four days at Phillips Case detail
DOJ's findings report states that in May 2023 DOJ interviewed the hostage victim at Phillips State Prison, who reported that he had been held and tortured for almost four days, had been stabbed from behind, his eye was pierced, and he suffered a traumatic brain injury.
Brandon Mincey found dead at Phillips State Prison Case detail
Phillips State Prison inmate Brandon Mincey, serving 10 years on a 2021 aggravated battery conviction, was found dead on Oct. 11.
Statewide GDC lockdown after gang-related fights Case detail
All Georgia Department of Corrections prisons were placed under lockdown after a string of gang-related altercations across the state left multiple inmates injured, with fights at Smith, Wilcox, Hays, and Valdosta State Prisons sending five inmates to the hospital on Wednesday.
Phillips SP PREA standards met Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center found the number of standards met to be 34.
34 standards
Phillips State Prison absent from FY2023 and FY2024 state appropriations bills Data gap
Searches of the FY2023A HB 18 appropriations bill and the FY2024 HB 19 appropriations bill for 'Phillips' and 'Phillips State Prison' returned no match, indicating Phillips is not named in those line-item budget documents as examined.
Sources
Warden Ahmed Holt presented Phillips State Prison overview to Board of Corrections (Feb 2016) Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes record that Ward introduced Warden Ahmed Holt of Phillips State Prison to present a facility overview.
Quafabian Melik McBride homicide at Phillips, Sept. 30, 2022 Case detail
Quafabian Melik McBride, 19, died Sept. 30, 2022, of a stab wound to the chest injuring the heart and sharp force injuries to head, torso and upper extremities, during a gang-related fight in the lockdown unit; the DOJ report says a gang war erupted following the homicide. McBride was housed elsewhere in the prison and had been brought to lockdown that day through the arrangements of officers.
Two inmates charged with malice murder in Jacob Daniels death Case detail
Cody Matthew Brock and James Ellis Collins, the alleged attackers of 18-year-old Jacob Daniels at Phillips State Prison, were charged with malice murder, aggravated assault and false imprisonment.
August 12, 2021 repeat assault by same assailant at Phillips Case detail
Almost exactly a year after the initial hostage-torture incident at Phillips State Prison, on August 12, 2021, the same assailant assaulted another incarcerated person at the same prison, and that second victim required outside medical treatment at a hospital.
Brandon Mincey and Travon Walthour stabbed to death Finding
The Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia, which tracks in-prison deaths, said that Phillips State Prison inmate Brandon Mincey and Hancock State Prison inmate Travon Walthour were both stabbed to death.
Dooly State Prison altercation injured six inmates Case detail
A GDC spokesperson said a separate altercation at Dooly State Prison injured six more inmates, with three transported via Life Flight, all with non-life-threatening injuries.
Phillips SP PREA standards not met Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center found the number of standards not met to be 0.
0 standards
Phillips State Prison absent from Georgia GO bond project lists (2021AB, 2022AB, 2023ABC) Data gap
Searches of the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission project lists for the 2021AB, 2022AB, and 2023A/2023B general obligation bond issuances for 'Phillips', 'Phillips State Prison', and 'Department of Corrections' returned no match, indicating no Phillips capital project appears in those bond project lists as examined.
Phillips State Prison provides all levels of mental health services including Level IV and Crisis Stabilization (2016) Finding
At a Georgia Board of Corrections meeting, Warden Ahmed Holt of Phillips State Prison stated that Phillips State Prison provides all levels of Mental Health services to include Level IV, Crisis Stabilization and is the host facility for Atlanta Medical Center and Phillips Transitional Center.
Alim Rasheed Lovett homicide at Phillips, Dec. 8, 2022 Case detail
Alim Rasheed Lovett, 33, died Dec. 8, 2022, of stab wounds to the back injuring his right lung, plus sharp force injuries to head, torso and right thigh; the incident report shows four other prisoners involved.
Jacob Daniels fatally brutalized by fellow prisoners Case detail
One prisoner, Jacob Daniels, 18, was fatally brutalized by fellow prisoners Cody Matthew Brock and James Ellis Collins, who allegedly broke his wrists and feet, cutting him with an ink pen and a broken lightbulb before stuffing a shredded mattress down his throat.
September 2022 gang war after Phillips homicide of Bloods member Case detail
DOJ's findings report, in a sidebar titled 'GANG WAR AT MULTIPLE PRISONS,' states that in September 2022, following the homicide at Phillips State Prison of a young man who was a member of the Bloods, a gang war erupted at multiple other GDC prisons.
Doe v. Georgia Department conditions-of-confinement case Legal fact
Doe v. Georgia Department is a conditions-of-confinement civil-detainee case with no termination date recorded on the docket.
GDC attributed incidents to gangs and locked down all facilities Finding
The GDC said all of its incidents were believed to be gang-related, and out of an abundance of caution, all GDC facilities had been placed on lockdown until further notice.
Phillips SP PREA standards not applicable Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center found the number of standards not applicable to be 4.
4 standards
Phillips State Prison absent from HB 67 (FY2025A) capital projects and bonds document Data gap
A search of the HB 67 (FY 2025A) Capital Projects and Bonds Governor House document for 'Phillips' and 'Phillips State Prison' returned no match.
Phillips State Prison constructed 1988, opened 1990, capacity 918 Statistic
GDC's own facility page for Phillips State Prison states it was constructed in 1988 and opened in 1990, with a capacity of 918.
918 capacity
Arthur James Wimbush Jr. homicide at Phillips, April 2, 2023 Case detail
Arthur James Wimbush Jr., 46, died April 2, 2023, of blunt force trauma with fracture of thyroid cartilage.
Twenty hospitalized in gang-related violence after September 2022 gang war Statistic
DOJ's findings report states that with Bloods attacking Crips in the several days that followed the September 2022 gang war, twenty incarcerated people were hospitalized following gang-related violence, including 13 from Macon State Prison on October 2, 2022.
20 hospitalizations vs. 13 Macon State Prison hospitalizations on October 2, 2022
Video shows guard beating inmate in mental health dorm at Phillips Case detail
A video purporting to show a correctional officer brutally attacking an inmate took place inside a dormitory for inmates with mental health issues at Phillips State Prison, a medium-security prison in Buford, on a Thursday evening, according to Larry Drew, president of the Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia.
Dooly State Prison altercation sent nine inmates to hospital Case detail
A GDC spokesperson said that out of an abundance of caution, all GDC facilities were placed on lockdown until further notice after a gang-related altercation at Dooly State Prison sent nine inmates to the hospital; seven of the nine had returned to the prison, and no staff were injured.
Phillips SP full-time positions (PREA audit) Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center states that the facility has 379 full-time positions.
379 positions
Phillips State Prison absent from HB 18 (FY 2023A) Public Safety and Criminal Justice document Data gap
A search of the HB 18 (FY 2023A) Public Safety and Criminal Justice Governor House document for 'Phillips' and 'Phillips State Prison' returned no match.
Phillips State Prison visitation hours and capacity Policy
GDC's current facility page for Phillips State Prison lists visitation hours as 9:00AM to 3:00PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and State Holidays, and a capacity of 918.
David Fambro homicide at Phillips, July 24, 2024 Case detail
David Fambro, 69, died July 24, 2024, of complications of facial fractures with an interval of 26 days; incident report data shows a homicide.
David Cassady charged with mailing bombs from Phillips State Prison Case detail
David Cassady, 55, an inmate at Phillips State Prison in Buford, was charged with making an unregistered destructive device, two counts of mailing a destructive device and two counts of attempted malicious use of an explosive.
Williams v. Georgia Department of Corrections proceeding on Third Amended Complaint Legal fact
Williams v. Georgia Department of Corrections was proceeding on a Third Amended Complaint filed August 28, 2024, with no termination date recorded on the docket.
$700,000 settlement for Demitri Carter suicide at Phillips Legal fact
The State of Georgia paid a $700,000 settlement in 2021 after Demitri Carter, who had multiple previous suicide attempts, took his own life at Phillips State Prison in October 2017.
Phillips SP vacant positions (PREA audit) Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center states that there are 36 positions vacant.
36 positions
Phillips State Prison has 100 isolation/segregation cells Statistic
GDC's facility page for Phillips State Prison states the prison has a total of 100 isolation/segregation cells.
100 isolation/segregation cells
Jamari McClinton killed five days after transfer from Phillips protective custody Case detail
Jamari McClinton, 21, was stabbed to death Aug. 11, 2021, five days after being transferred from Phillips State Prison, where he had been in protective custody after threats from gang members; protection was removed when he was transferred.
Sgt. Geramy Brown disciplinary history before firing Case detail
Before Sgt. Geramy Brown was fired, he had been demoted from Lieutenant in 2020 for 'failure to follow policy,' and his file also contained three written reprimands, including one for leaving a handcuffed prisoner in a cell with another prisoner who was unrestrained.
Demitri Carter death investigated as apparent suicide at Phillips Case detail
GDC investigated the death of inmate Demitri Carter (GDC #1001507614) at Phillips State Prison in Buford as an apparent suicide; he was found unresponsive in his cell at 2:10 p.m. on October 29 and pronounced deceased at 2:50 p.m.
Phillips SP cameras in designated living areas (PREA audit) Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center states that there are 86 cameras in 11 designated living areas that assist with supervision.
86 cameras
Phillips State Prison absent from WSAV report on all-facility GDC lockdown Data gap
A search of the WSAV-TV report 'All GDC facilities on lockdown after violent night' for 'Phillips State Prison', 'Phillips SP', and 'Buford' returned no match.
Phillips State Prison mission: housing management-problem offenders and all levels of mental health service Policy
GDC's facility page for Phillips State Prison describes its mission as housing offenders who have had management problems at other prisons or centers, and providing all levels of mental health service including Level IV, Crisis Stabilization, with host facility Atlanta Medical Center and Phillips Transitional Center.
Shay Hatcher promoted to North Regional Director overseeing 16 facilities Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Shay Hatcher to North Regional Director, effective April 1, 2021. As North Regional Director, Hatcher will oversee the management of 16 facilities throughout the North Georgia region.
Federal indictment in United States v. Bostic names four defendants Legal fact
The federal indictment in United States v. Bostic charged Michael Bostic with Counts 1, 6, 7; Tavia Trammer with Counts 2, 3, 4, 5; Patrick Coleman with Counts 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14; and Cornelius Sanders with Counts 2, 4, 6.
Phillips homicides in 2020 and 2021 per AJC Statistic
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, only one killing was reported at Phillips State Prison in 2021 and zero in 2020.
1 homicides vs. 2020 homicides
Demitri Carter sentenced for Aggravated Assault Case detail
Demitri Carter was sentenced in 2014 in Cherokee County for Aggravated Assault.
Phillips SP designated living areas with cameras (PREA audit) Statistic
A GDC PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center states that the 86 cameras are in 11 designated living areas.
11 living areas
Phillips State Prison housing configuration: 10 living units, 100 segregation cells, Transitional Center 310 beds Statistic
GDC's facility page for Phillips State Prison describes its housing as 10 living units each with two dormitories, with seven and a half of the units having two-man cells and the remainder a combination of two single-man cells housing MH/SM inmates, plus a total of 100 isolation/segregation cells, and the Phillips State Prison Transitional Center having 310 beds.
310 beds (Transitional Center) vs. 100 isolation/segregation cells
Former Phillips officer Michael Bostic charged with bribery and drug trafficking Case detail
Michael Bostic, 32, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Phillips State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to smuggle contraband into a prison, accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions, and attempted drug trafficking.
Indictment expected for Allah Jahmal Ware in stabbing death of Antonio Maurice Turner Case detail
The Gwinnett County District Attorney's Office said an indictment was expected for Allah Jahmal Ware for the Jan. 4 death of Antonio Maurice Turner, who was found stabbed four times in his cell at Phillips State Prison.
Sgt. Geramy Brown fired three days after McBride attack Case detail
Correctional officer Sgt. Geramy Brown was fired three days after the McBride attack for violating employee standards of conduct, staff misconduct, and failure to comply with an investigation.
Energy performance contract at Phillips State Prison Statistic
GDC's FY2014 fiscal report states that under the Guaranteed Savings Energy Performance contract, the project includes installation of $4,500,000 of energy efficiency improvements at Phillips State Prison and offers guaranteed savings of over $7,300,000 in utility costs over the 15-year contract term with Johnson Controls Incorporated.
$4.5M USD vs. 7,300,000 guaranteed savings in utility costs
Casey Felton promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Casey Felton to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison, effective May 1, 2019.
Telfair gang fight confined to one dorm; statewide lockdown Case detail
The fight at Telfair State Prison was gang related but was confined to one dorm, and all Georgia prisons were put on lockdown out of an abundance of caution, according to GDC.
Phillips State Prison physical capacity 918, operational capacity 696, security level close (archival) Statistic
GDC's facility description for (Clyde N.) Phillips State Prison states it was constructed in 1988, opened in 1990, has physical capacity 918, operational capacity 696, and security level close.
918 physical capacity vs. 696 operational capacity
Former Phillips officer Patrick Coleman charged with bribery and drug trafficking Case detail
Patrick Coleman, 43, of Tucker, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Phillips State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to smuggle contraband into a prison, accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions, and attempted drug trafficking.
Antonio Maurice Turner found stabbed four times in cell Case detail
Antonio Maurice Turner, 27, of Canton, was found facedown in his cell and had been stabbed four times.
Five prisoners killed at Phillips in 2022, four after Warden Jones arrived Statistic
McBride was one of five prisoners killed at Phillips State Prison in 2022, four of them since the July 1, 2022 arrival of Warden Deshawn Jones.
5 homicides vs. 4 homicides after July 1, 2022
Sanitary sewer rehabilitation projects at multiple facilities Statistic
GDC's FY2014 fiscal report states that sanitary sewer collection system rehabilitation and related projects (sewage lift stations, screening structure upgrades, grease trap interceptors) at Whitworth Women's Facility, Phillips State Prison, Augusta State Medical Prison, Dodge State Prison, and Johnson State Prison had a combined cost of $5,370,000.
$5.4M USD
Phillips State Prison security staff supervised in 2019 Statistic
As Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison, Felton would be responsible for overseeing 285 security staff.
285 security staff
Inmate asked why he hadn't been fed in 8 hours before alleged punch Quote
Terri Wells with the Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia said that in the video, an inmate at Phillips State Prison steps out of his cell to ask why he hasn't been fed in 8 hours.
Phillips State Prison absent from FBI Operation Ghost Guard announcement Data gap
A search of the FBI's Operation Ghost Guard announcement for 'Phillips State Prison', 'Phillips SP', and 'Buford' returned no match, even though the same announcement states corrupt activity was found in 11 of 35 state facilities.
Phillips State Prison mission includes all levels of mental health service (archival) Policy
GDC's facility description for Phillips State Prison states its mission includes providing all levels of mental health service to include Level IV, Crisis Stabilization, and that it is the host facility for Atlanta Medical Center and Phillips Transitional Center.
Former Phillips officer Justin Gennings charged with bribery to smuggle contraband Case detail
Justin Gennings, 29, of Port Royal, South Carolina, formerly a Correctional Officer at Phillips State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to smuggle contraband into a prison.
Inmates and contract employee named in Phillips State Prison smuggling indictment Case detail
Corrections1 (republishing AJC reporting) named inmates Mims Morris, Johnathan 'Turtle' Silvers and Adam 'Scrap' Smith in the Phillips State Prison indictment for a prison smuggling and fraud scheme, allegedly assisted by Charonda Edwards, a contract employee who had worked in the prison's kitchen.
Commissioner Oliver 'zero tolerance' statement amid no charges Finding
As of the Prison Legal News report, no charges had been filed against any of the Phillips State Prison guards in the McBride case, despite GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver's statement that he has 'zero tolerance for compromised staff or staff cutting corners to allow inmates to attack one another or kill one another.'
First state agency Guaranteed Savings Energy Performance Contract Finding
GDC's FY2014 fiscal report describes a Guaranteed Savings Energy Performance Contract providing guaranteed savings of over $7.3 million in utility costs at Phillips State Prison, under a 15-year contract with Johnson Controls Incorporation, the first such contract entered into by a Georgia state agency.
Preston Crowder promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Preston Crowder to Deputy Warden of Security at Phillips State Prison, effective February 15, 2022.
Cassady sentenced to 80 years for mailing bombs Case detail
David Dwayne Cassady, an inmate incarcerated in the Georgia Department of Corrections, was sentenced to 80 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of attempted malicious use of explosive materials.
DOJ NDGA press release did not contain expected sentencing/plea strings Data gap
A search of the DOJ U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia press release 'Further corruption involving Georgia Department of Corrections guards exposed' for 'Bostic was sentenced', 'Coleman was sentenced', 'Gennings pleaded guilty', and 'Trammer was sentenced' returned no match.
Phillips State Prison housing configuration (archival) Statistic
GDC's facility description for Phillips State Prison describes its housing as consisting of 10 living units each with two dormitories, seven and a half of the units having two-man cells and the remainder a combination of two single-man cells housing MH/SM inmates, with a total of 100 isolation/segregation cells, and that the Phillips State Prison Transitional Center has 310 beds.
310 beds (Transitional Center) vs. 100 isolation/segregation cells
Former Phillips officer Tavia Trammer charged with bribery and drug trafficking Case detail
Tavia Trammer, 34, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, formerly a Correctional Officer at Phillips State Prison, was charged with accepting bribe payments to protect drug transactions and attempted drug trafficking.
Phillips State Prison has a Tactical Squad (TAC) unit Policy
GDC's Special Operations Fact Sheet lists Phillips State Prison among the facilities with a Tactical Squad (TAC) unit.
Reentry Dorm at Phillips named after Chaplain Katie Wright Policy
Board of Corrections minutes record that the Reentry Dorm at Phillips State Prison was named after Chaplain Katie Wright under Board Rule 125-2-2-.04.
Tikara Brown reassigned to Deputy Warden of Administration at Phillips Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the reassignment of Tikara Brown to Deputy Warden of Administration at Phillips State Prison, effective April 16, 2022.
Sentences in federal Georgia prison corruption probe Finding
Of the one-time Georgia prison guards charged in the federal corruption and drug-smuggling investigation that included the Phillips State Prison officers, only two avoided prison and got probation instead; the rest received sentences ranging from 18 months to 9 1/2 years in a federal penitentiary.
PREA audit records Phillips State Prison capacity 918 and current population 887 Statistic
A PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Phillips Transition Center records Designated Facility Capacity of 918 and Current Population of Facility of 887.
887 current population vs. 918 designated capacity
More than 45 GDC officers charged in federal contraband and bribery operation Case detail
More than 45 current and former Georgia Department of Corrections officers and contract correctional officers were charged in seven separate federal indictments with smuggling contraband into prisons and accepting bribe payments in exchange for providing protection for drug deals that were part of a federal undercover operation.
Phillips State Prison part of North Interdiction Response Team Policy
GDC's Special Operations Fact Sheet lists Phillips State Prison as part of the North Interdiction Response Team (Regional), alongside Rogers State Prison.
Facilities Committee recommends naming Reentry Dorm after Chaplain Katie Wright Policy
Board of Corrections minutes record that Duke Blackburn, Chairman of the Facilities Committee, gave the Facilities Committee's recommendation on naming the Reentry Dorm at Phillips State Prison after Chaplain Katie Wright.
Mary Rankin resigned as health services administrator at Phillips Case detail
Mary Rankin, the health services administrator at Phillips State Prison, resigned in October 2022, writing in her resignation letter that there had been little to no security staff covering the medical department and that she did not feel safe working there.
Phillips SP on restricted movement during COVID-19 Policy
GDC's March 27, 2020 COVID-19 press release stated Phillips State Prison was placed on restricted movement, with offenders still having access to medical care, showers, meals and hygiene products.
PREA audit records Phillips State Prison physical plant: 17 buildings, 4 single cell units, 7 multiple occupancy units, 75 segregation cells Statistic
A PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Phillips Transition Center records the facility's physical plant as 17 buildings, 4 single cell housing units, 7 multiple occupancy cell housing units, 0 open bay/dorm housing units, and 75 segregation cells (administrative and disciplinary).
75 segregation cells vs. 17 buildings
PREA Cycle 3 audit: Phillips capacity 918, population 845, ADP 860 Statistic
A PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison & Transitional Center records Designed facility capacity of 918, Current population of facility 845, and Average daily population for the past 12 months of 860.
918 capacity vs. 845 current population
Officer Alyssa Hudson arrested June 4 at Phillips SP Case detail
GDC's contraband report dated July 08, 2026 states that on June 4 at Phillips SP, Officer Alyssa Hudson was arrested by the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office for violation of oath and trading with an offender without consent, after leads developed by the Office of Professional Standards.
Commissioner's report includes Phillips State Prison Update Policy
A Board of Corrections meeting summary records that Commissioner Tyrone Oliver's report included a Phillips State Prison Update.
Rankin cited increased inmate violence against medical staff Quote
Mary Rankin wrote in her letter of resignation from Phillips State Prison that there had been little to no security staff covering the medical department, and that inmate violence against medical staff had increased.
GDC COVID-19 press release date Methodology note
GDC's COVID-19 press release is dated March 27, 2020.
PREA audit records 369 staff with inmate contact at Phillips State Prison Statistic
GDC's PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Phillips Transition Center found that the number of staff currently employed by the facility who may have contact with inmates was 369.
369 staff
PREA Cycle 3 audit conducted March 8-12, 2021 Methodology note
The PREA audit of Phillips State Prison and the Phillips Transitional Center for cycle 3 was conducted 3/8/21 through 3/12/21.
Officer Shakira Bethea arrested August 7 at Phillips State Prison Case detail
GDC's contraband report dated August 12, 2019 states that on August 7 at Phillips State Prison, a warrant was obtained for Correctional Officer Shakira Bethea following an investigation by GDC's Office of Professional Standards, and Officer Bethea was arrested by Gwinnett County Police Department.
Phillips State Prison security classification mismatch Statistic
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts performance audit found that Phillips State Prison is a close security special mission facility, but 73.1% of offenders placed within are minimum or medium security level, according to an offender count obtained for June 30, 2018.
73.1%
Phillips State Prison housed about 920 prisoners in 10 buildings Statistic
Phillips State Prison has about 920 prisoners housed in 10 buildings, according to AJC reporting.
920 prisoners
Oxycontin and pipe found in vehicle at Phillips TC; driver arrested Case detail
GDC's published contraband-arrest report states that on June 1, 2014 at Phillips Transitional Center, staff found a pipe with residue and Oxycontin tablets in a suspicious vehicle in the lower parking lot, and the driver, Justin McKnight, was arrested by Gwinnett County police.
Three officers removed after McBride death; two later linked to fatal fight Case detail
Records obtained by the AJC show three officers were removed from their posts in the days after McBride's death, and two of them were later linked to the fatal fight.
FY1991 Phillips CI average inmate count and inmate days Statistic
Georgia's FY1991 annual report lists Phillips CI with an average inmate count of 403, 147,095 inmate days, and marks it as one of the institutions in start-up phase that year.
403 average inmates vs. 147,095 inmate days
Source
Phillips State Prison bed capacity Statistic
A Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts special examination's facility bed-space table lists Phillips State Prison as a male Special Mission facility with 773 beds in one listed category and 89 in another, totaling 862.
862 beds
Phillips State Prison had five homicides, most of any facility Statistic
Gang violence has been particularly prevalent at the Buford facility, which had more homicides, five, than any other, according to AJC reporting.
5 homicides
Marijuana and meth found in visitor's vehicle at Phillips TC Case detail
GDC's published contraband-arrest report states that on Saturday, July 9, 2011, Crystal Bell was arrested at Phillips Transitional Center in Buford while visiting an inmate, after her vehicle was searched and officers found substances that tested positive for marijuana and methamphetamine, with the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Department assisting.
No criminal charges filed against guards over McBride killing; DOJ attention Legal fact
No criminal charges had been filed against the guards over McBride's killing, but the circumstances had attracted DOJ attention as part of its ongoing investigation of the Georgia prison system.
PREA Cycle 3 audit: 187 staff with inmate contact Statistic
GDC's PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison and Phillips Transitional Center found that the number of staff currently employed at the facility who may have contact with inmates was 187.
187 staff
Aaron Pineiro listed as Warden of Phillips State Prison Finding
GDC's Facility Directory List updated 10/16/2026 lists Aaron Pineiro as Warden of Phillips State Prison.
Sergeant Ontario Tolbert saves resident with Narcan at Phillips Transitional Center Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes record that Sergeant Ontario Tolbert of Phillips Transitional Center responded to an emergency of an unconscious resident, instructed fellow officers to call 911 while he administered Narcan Nasal Spray and performed CPR until EMS arrived, saving the resident's life.
Phillips charter high school was third Foothills program in GDC Policy
Phillips State Prison's charter high school program with Foothills Education Charter High School was the third such GDC facility program, after one that opened in September 2015 at Lee Arrendale State Prison and a second established in 2016 at Burruss Correctional Training Center.
Five men slain at Phillips State Prison in one year, most of any GDC facility Statistic
Quafabian McBride, 19, was one of five men slain last year at Phillips State Prison, the most for any Georgia Department of Corrections facility.
5 homicides
PREA Cycle 4 audit: Phillips capacity 1042, population 910, ADP 939 Statistic
A PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison & Transitional Center records Designed facility capacity of 1042, Current population of facility 910, and Average daily population for the past 12 months of 939.
1,042 capacity vs. 910 current population
Joshua Fulbright listed as Deputy Warden Security at Phillips Finding
GDC's Facility Directory List updated 10/16/2026 lists Joshua Fulbright as a Deputy Warden Security at Phillips State Prison.
Federal probe charged about 130 people Statistic
The federal investigation that charged the four former Phillips State Prison officers resulted in charges against about 130 prison employees, inmates, and non-incarcerated co-conspirators in total.
130 people
McBride killed Sept. 30 in lockdown unit at Phillips State Prison Case detail
McBride was killed Sept. 30 in the lockdown unit at Phillips State Prison, according to AJC's reporting.
PREA Cycle 4 audit: no substantial facility expansion since last audit Finding
A PREA audit of Phillips State Prison & Transitional Center states the facility reported in response to the Pre-Audit Questionnaire that it has not engaged in any substantial expansion or modification of its facility since the last PREA audit, and that interviews with the agency head and Warden indicated they have not had modifications to the facility.
Remona Holloway listed as Deputy Warden Admin at Phillips Finding
GDC's Facility Directory List updated 10/16/2026 lists Remona Holloway as Deputy Warden Admin at Phillips State Prison.
Two inmates airlifted after Smith State Prison altercation Case detail
Two inmates were airlifted to local hospitals following what officials believe to have been a gang-related altercation at Smith State Prison, prompting officials to place all Georgia Department of Corrections facilities on lockdown.
Phillips inmate indicted for building and mailing bombs Case detail
A man serving a life term at Phillips State Prison in Buford was indicted on charges of constructing and mailing bombs to two federal buildings.
McBride placed in lockdown unit because officers arranged it, per AJC evidence Finding
McBride was in the lockdown unit at Phillips State Prison when he was killed Sept. 30, and he was there because officers arranged for it, according to AJC's evidence.
PREA Cycle 4 audit conducted Nov. 27-30, 2023, signed by Mable P. Wheeler Methodology note
GDC's PREA audit of Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center was signed by auditor Mable P. Wheeler, with the on-site audit conducted 11/27/2023 through 11/30/2023 and the final report submitted 01/05/2024.
Phillips State Prison designated Acute Care Facility/Regional Infirmary Policy
GDC's SOP 507.04.42, Infirmary Care, Observation, Accommodative Living Unit, designates Phillips State Prison as one of the facilities that is an Acute Care Facility or Regional Infirmary providing twenty-four hour nursing care.
All GDC facilities locked down after Smith State Prison altercation Policy
All GDC facilities were placed on lockdown out of an abundance of caution, until further notice, after the altercation at Smith State Prison.
Gwinnett Daily Post bombing story attribution Methodology note
The Gwinnett Daily Post headlined the story 'Inmate At Buford's Phillips State Prison Charged With Building, Mailing Bombs,' attributed to Dave Williams of Capitol Beat News Service and published Apr 4, 2024.
GDC Commissioner: nearly all Phillips inmates considered violent, more than half need mental health treatment Quote
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver said Phillips State Prison presents a special challenge because nearly all its inmates are considered violent and more than half require some type of mental health treatment.
PREA Cycle 4 audit: 6 standards exceeded, 39 met, 0 not met Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Phillips State Prison and Transitional Center found 6 standards exceeded, 39 standards met, and 0 standards not met.
6 standards exceeded vs. 39 standards met
Statewide prison lockdown due to violence at Telfair State Prison Case detail
Georgia's Department of Corrections said that the state's entire prison system is on lockdown because of violence at Telfair State Prison.
Tavia Trammer sentenced to 29 months on Count 4 Case detail
Tavia Trammer was sentenced on Count 4 to 29 months custody with the Bureau of Prisons followed by 3 years of supervised release, with Counts 2, 3, and 5 dismissed on the government's motion.
Jacob Daniels, 18, killed at Phillips State Prison in gruesome attack Case detail
18-year-old Jacob Daniels died at Phillips State Prison after being attacked by two inmates who, per arrest warrants, stuffed mattress filling in his mouth, stabbed him in the throat with an ink pen, and cut his wrists with glass from a broken light bulb.
PREA Cycle 4 audit: 145 staff, medical via Well Path, mental health via Centurion Statistic
GDC's PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison & Transitional Center states that on day one of the audit, the facility employed (145) staff members to include management, administrative, food service, and security, with medical services contracted through Well Path and mental health staff contracted through Centurion.
145 staff
Tavia Trammer pleaded guilty to Count 4 Case detail
Tavia Trammer entered a guilty plea to Count 4 in a change of plea hearing before Judge Timothy C. Batten, Sr.
Several Phillips killings point to lapses in oversight of inmates with severe mental health issues Finding
Several of the killings at Phillips State Prison point to critical lapses in the oversight of inmates with severe mental health issues, according to AJC reporting.
PREA Cycle 4 audit: number of standards exceeded is 6 Statistic
GDC's PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison & Transitional Center found the number of standards exceeded to be 6.
6 standards exceeded
Cellphone-enabled crime ring run from Phillips SP Case detail
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that one of two federal indictments against 12 people for cellphone-enabled crime rings run from inside Georgia state prisons involved a crime ring run out of Phillips State Prison in Gwinnett County.
Ahmed Holt reassigned as Warden of Phillips State Prison effective July 1, 2014 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the reassignment of Ahmed Holt as the new Warden of Phillips State Prison effective July 1, 2014.
PREA Cycle 4 audit: number of standards met is 39 Statistic
GDC's PREA audit report for Phillips State Prison & Transitional Center found the number of standards met to be 39.
39 standards met
Guards from six prisons named in corruption indictments Case detail
Federal indictments alleged corruption by prison guards from Phillips, Macon, Dooly, Hancock, Pulaski and Baldwin state prisons, part of a continuing federal crackdown on drugs, corruption and contraband cell phones in Georgia's prison system.
DOJ: Phillips had most homicides of any Georgia prison in 2022, five Statistic
DOJ's findings report states that in 2022, Phillips State Prison had the most homicides of any Georgia prison that year, five; there were four homicides at Macon that year.
5 homicides vs. 4 homicides at Macon
Inmate stabbed to death in Phillips sallyport Case detail
A Phillips State Prison inmate was stabbed to death during an altercation with another inmate in a sallyport (a controlled entryway) within the prison at about 6:30 on a Wednesday night; the GBI's John Bankhead said the suspect had previously been sentenced to life imprisonment for a prior murder and the victim was serving time for burglary.
DOJ: incarcerated person hospitalized for six or more stab wounds at Phillips, Dec. 17 Case detail
DOJ's findings report states that on December 17 an incarcerated person at Phillips State Prison, whom DOJ had interviewed earlier in 2023, required hospitalization for six or more stab wounds, and that same day video circulated of a fire set the previous day in the sallyport area of a housing unit at Phillips while incarcerated people milled around it.
GBI spokesman details Phillips stabbing Finding
A GBI spokesman said the stabbing at Phillips State Prison occurred at about 6:30 in a sallyport, a controlled entryway, within the prison, and a suspect, not yet charged, had previously been sentenced to life imprisonment stemming from a previous murder.
Gwinnett DA declines to prosecute officer seen punching inmate Legal fact
The Gwinnett County District Attorney's Office will not prosecute a correctional officer at Phillips State Prison seen on camera punching an inmate.
DA found insufficient evidence; officer within use-of-force guidelines Legal fact
The Gwinnett County District Attorney determined there was 'insufficient evidence' to criminally proceed against the Phillips State Prison correctional officer seen punching the inmate, finding the incident 'profoundly regrettable' but that the officer was within use of force guidelines.
Emery v. Holt pending with qualified protective order Legal fact
Emery v. Holt remained pending with a qualified protective order entered by the court, and the docket records no termination date.
DA investigation began after leaked inmate video Case detail
The Gwinnett County District Attorney's Office announced that, after an investigation, there was insufficient evidence to criminally prosecute a correctional officer at Phillips State Prison who was seen punching an inmate in a leaked inmate video, while finding the incident 'profoundly regrettable' though the officer acted within use-of-force guidelines.
DA reviewed full footage, interviews, and toured facility Methodology note
The Gwinnett County District Attorney's Office announced on Aug. 27, 2021 that it had begun an investigation, after becoming aware via a leaked inmate video, regarding a correctional officer at Phillips State Prison who was punching an inmate; after reviewing all videos including full prison footage, investigative interviews, and touring the facility, it determined there was insufficient evidence to criminally proceed and found the correctional officer was within use-of-force guidelines, while calling the incident 'profoundly regrettable.'
Sources
91 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Aaron Pineiro
[person]
Adam Smith
[person]
Adam T Barnett
[person]
Ahmed Holt
[person]
Alim Rasheed Lovett
[person]
Allah Jahmal Ware
[person]
Alyssa Hudson
[person]
Antavious Simon
[person]
Antonio Maurice Turner
[person]
Antonio Turner
[person]
Arthur James Wimbush Jr.
[person]
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
[organization]
Atlanta Medical Center
[facility]
Augusta State Medical Prison
[facility]
Autry State Prison
[facility]
Baldwin State Prison
[facility]
Board of Corrections
[organization]
Brandon Mincey
[person]
Brian Kemp
[person]
Brian Owens
[person]
Burgest v. Bouchie
[case]
Burruss Correctional Training Center
[facility]
Calhoun State Prison
[facility]
Capitol Beat News Service
[organization]
Carl Franklin
[person]
Casey Felton
[person]
Centurion
[organization]
Chaney McDay
[person]
Chaplain Katie Wright
[person]
Charonda Edwards
[person]
Coastal State Prison
[facility]
Cody Matthew Brock
[person]
Cornelius Sanders
[person]
Courtney McDay
[person]
Crystal Bell
[person]
Dave Stone
[person]
Dave Williams
[person]
David Cassady
[person]
David Clark
[person]
David Dwayne Cassady
[person]
David Fambro
[person]
Dejuan Cannon
[person]
Demitri Carter
[person]
Deshawn Jones
[person]
Doe v. Georgia Department
[case]
Dooly State Prison
[facility]
Dorothy Andre
[person]
Duke Blackburn
[person]
Emery v. Holt
[case]
Emory Dunahoo
[person]
Federal Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Foothills Education Charter High School
[program]
Georgia Board of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Georgia Correctional Industries
[organization]
Georgia Department of Administrative Services
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Geramy Antonio Brown
[person]
Geramy Brown
[person]
Gregory C. Dozier
[person]
GSFIC
[organization]
Gwinnett County District Attorney's Office
[organization]
Gwinnett County Police Department
[organization]
Gwinnett County Sheriff's Department
[organization]
Gwinnett County Water and Sewerage Authority
[organization]
Gwinnett Daily Post
[organization]
Hancock State Prison
[facility]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
Homer Bryson
[person]
Human and Civil Rights Coalition of Georgia
[organization]
J. Kevin Perry
[person]
Jacob Daniels
[person]
Jacob Kendall Daniels
[person]
Jamal Cymonne Johnson
[person]
Jamari McClinton
[person]
James Ellis Collins
[person]
Javaris Jones
[person]
John Bankhead
[person]
Johnathan Silvers
[person]
Johnson Controls Incorporated
[organization]
Joseph Williams
[person]
Joshua Fulbright
[person]
Justin Gennings
[person]
Justin McKnight
[person]
Larry Drew
[person]
Lee Anderson Wright
[person]
Lee Arrendale State Prison
[facility]
Mable P. Wheeler
[person]
Macon State Prison
[facility]
Mary Rankin
[person]
Melinda Carter
[person]
Michael Bostic
[person]
Mims Morris
[person]
Ontario Tolbert
[person]
Operation Ghost Guard
[operation]
Patrick Coleman
[person]
Perry
[person]
Phillips State Prison
[facility]
Phillips Transitional Center
[facility]
Preston Crowder
[person]
Pulaski State Prison
[facility]
Quafabian McBride
[person]
Quafabian Melik McBride
[person]
Remona Holloway
[person]
Rogers State Prison
[facility]
Shakira Bethea
[person]
Shay Hatcher
[person]
Sidney Sanchez Nealey
[person]
Smith State Prison
[facility]
Tavia Trammer
[person]
Telfair State Prison
[facility]
Terri Wells
[person]
Tikara Brown
[person]
Timothy Barr
[person]
Timothy C. Batten, Sr.
[person]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Travon Walthour
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Department of Justice
[organization]
United States v. Bostic
[case]
Ware State Prison
[facility]
Wellpath
[organization]
Wilcox State Prison
[facility]
Williams v. Georgia Department of Corrections
[case]
Wright v. McDay
[case]