Smith State Prison (Glennville): capacity, deaths and violence, prosecutions, lawsuits, staffing, money and audits
Smith 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
On June 16, 2024, a Georgia state prison inmate shot and killed an Aramark food service employee at Smith State Prison in Glennville, then shot himself. GDC identified the inmate as Jaydrekus Hart. Hart shot the employee while working in the prison kitchen at 4:30 a.m., according to GDC. The inmate then shot himself and was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
The finding
The Attorney General's Prosecution Division presented evidence to a Tattnall County Grand Jury, which returned an indictment against Brian Adams on May 13, 2026, charging 1 count of Violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, 1 count of False Statements, 2 counts of Tampering with Evidence, and 2 counts of Violation of Oath by a Public Officer.
The finding
The AJC reported that Smith State Prison in Glennville had more homicides than any other Georgia prison in 2023.
The finding
Ireon Moore, a GDC employee since March 2020, was arrested in April 2021 for entering Smith State Prison with $29,000 in cash; while her vehicle was searched by GDC investigators, her cell phone received a call from an inmate using a contraband phone inside Smith SP.
The finding
Former Smith State Prison Warden Brian Adams was charged with False Statements and Writings, Violation of Oath by a Public Officer, Bribery, and Criminal Attempt - RICO Act in connection with the criminal enterprise uncovered during the Kicklighter investigation.
The finding
The AJC's investigation states Georgia prisons saw an unprecedented 38 homicides in 2023, topping the previous record of 31 the year before.
The finding
The AJC's investigation into Georgia prison homicides lists Smith State Prison with 19 homicides in its dataset of Georgia prison homicide victims.
The finding
DOJ's October 2024 findings report states that in June 2024 an incarcerated person at Smith State Prison used a contraband gun to kill a food-service worker and then take his own life.
The finding
The DOJ found that in 2023 seven incarcerated people and one correctional officer were killed in homicides at Smith State Prison.
The finding
DOJ's findings report states that in February 2023 the Warden of Smith State Prison, Brian Adams, was arrested on Georgia RICO charges for his alleged involvement in an extensive drug-smuggling conspiracy led by a person who was incarcerated at Smith.
The finding
DOJ's findings report states that in 2021 the highest number of homicides at any one Georgia prison occurred at Smith State Prison.
The finding
DOJ's findings report states that in 2023 seven incarcerated people and one correctional officer were killed in homicides at Smith State Prison.
The finding
Since February of that year, Tattnall County EMS records showed EMS had been called to Smith State Prison in Glennville to transport 66 prisoners for assaults, mostly stabbings, and all told, the county's EMS personnel had been called to transport 173 prisoners for assaults since the beginning of 2020.
The finding
As of August, Smith State Prison had 44 correctional officers on staff to cover all shifts at a facility housing 1,400 men in 17 housing units, while the prison was supposed to have 162 officers according to its staffing records.
The finding
Per an AJC data table of Georgia's worst-staffed prisons, Smith State Prison was listed as high security with 1,396 inmates and a correctional officer vacancy rate of 72.84%.
All Data Points
278 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Former warden Brian Adams indicted on multiple charges Legal fact
A Tattnall County Grand Jury returned an indictment against former Smith State Prison warden Brian Adams on May 13, 2026, charging him with one count of RICO violation, one count of false statements, two counts of tampering with evidence, and two counts of violation of oath by a public officer.
Aramark employee Aureon Grace killed by inmate Jaydrekus Hart at Smith State Prison Case detail
Aramark food service employee Aureon Grace was killed while on the job at Smith State Prison; investigators said that in the early morning hours of June 16, inmate Jaydrekus Hart shot Grace and then shot himself.
Smith State Prison capacity listed by GDC Statistic
GDC's facility page lists Smith State Prison's capacity as 1526.
1,526 people
Flournoy v. Smith State Prison dismissed for failure to prosecute Legal fact
In Flournoy v. Smith State Prison, the court adopted a magistrate's report and recommendation and dismissed the plaintiff's complaint without prejudice for failure to follow the court's order and failure to prosecute; the plaintiff was denied leave to proceed in forma pauperis on appeal.
DOJ report: Inmate tied up, beaten, waterboarded by cellmate at Smith SP (May 2020) Case detail
The DOJ's findings report states that at Smith State Prison, in May 2020, GDC staff informed emergency services responders that an incarcerated person had been tied up, beaten, and waterboarded by his cellmate. The cellmate also inserted multiple bars of soap into the victim's rectum; one bar covered in stool and blood had already fallen out. The victim suffered multiple contusions to his face and chest, was bleeding heavily from his nose and mouth, had ligature marks on his neck, and still had makeshift binding around his wrist.
Aramark employee Aureon Grace shot and killed at Smith State Prison Case detail
An inmate, Jaydrekus Hart, shot Aramark food service employee Aureon Grace, 24, of Statesboro, while she was working in the kitchen at Smith State Prison around 4:30 a.m. on a Sunday, per a WTOC story published June 16, 2024. Grace was pronounced dead at the scene; Hart turned the gun on himself and later died from his injuries at a local hospital.
Charles Mims promoted to Warden of Smith State Prison effective July 16, 2025 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Charles Mims, Warden at Wilcox State Prison, to Warden at Smith State Prison, effective July 16, 2025.
Justin Nathaniel Wilkerson death at Smith State Prison Case detail
Justin Nathaniel Wilkerson, 25, died January 5, 2021 at Smith State Prison of asphyxia/neck compression. During a hearing at the Georgia Legislature, his mother testified he had mental health diagnoses of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and had previously been attacked in prison.
Smith State Prison mental health unit start referenced in FY2020 GDC report Policy
GDC's Annual Fiscal Report 2020 states the Department expanded on-site mental health services to Dooly State Prison similarly to the previous fiscal year when Smith, Telfair, and Ware State Prisons' mental health units initially started.
Smith SP facility turnover rate 2010 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' December 2013 'State Corrections and Community Officers' report lists Smith State Prison's facility turnover rate as 18% in 2010.
18%
Officer Robert Clark killed at Smith State Prison Case detail
Correctional officer Robert Clark, 42, died at a hospital after an inmate assaulted him with a homemade weapon at Smith State Prison in Glennville; GDC said Clark was escorting two inmates from the dining hall when one attacked him from behind, and a second inmate who tried to help was also wounded with non-life-threatening injuries.
FY2021 bond for security system improvements at Smith, Macon, Phillips Statistic
The Governor's Budget Report for FY 2021 lists a General Obligation Bond project for the Department of Corrections: 'Design and construct security system improvements at Smith, Macon, and Phillips State Prison, statewide,' with a 5-year term, $1,575,000 authorized principal and $364,455 debt service.
$1.6M USD
Former Smith State Prison warden Brian Adams indicted Case detail
Brian Adams, 52, of Waycross, Georgia, former warden of Smith State Prison in Glennville, was indicted in Tattnall County on charges of violating the RICO Act, false statements, tampering with evidence, and violation of oath by a public officer. According to Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, the charges relate to an alleged contraband smuggling operation tied to inmate Nathan Weekes and a prison gang known as YSL Squad.
Adams alleged to have buried contraband to obstruct investigation Case detail
Brian Adams is alleged to have knowingly concealed prison shanks and contraband cell phones by having them buried in his backyard in an attempt to obstruct an investigation into his activity and the YSL Squad at Smith State Prison.
Anonymous Smith State Prison employee blames warden and commissioner for contraband and understaffing Finding
An anonymous current Smith State Prison employee blamed Warden Jacob Beasley and GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver for not cracking down on contraband, and said the facility was understaffed with inmates outnumbering officers.
Smith State Prison constructed in 1993 Statistic
GDC's facility page states Smith State Prison was constructed in 1993.
1,993 year
Sanchez v. Smith State Prison dismissed for failure to state a claim Legal fact
In Sanchez v. Smith State Prison, a magistrate judge recommended dismissal of Adalberto Sanchez's complaint for failure to state a claim upon which relief may be granted, and the district judge adopted the recommendation.
DOJ report: Smith SP lockdown before inspection due to armed fight, 7 hospitalized (March 27, 2023) Case detail
The DOJ's findings report states that on March 27, 2023, Smith State Prison went into lockdown immediately before a DOJ site inspection. GDC imposed the lockdown because of a fight with weapons early that morning following the serving of a Ramadan breakfast inside the D-2 dorm. Seven individuals required hospitalization, two by air evacuation.
Aureon Grace began employment at Smith State Prison in January 2024 Case detail
Aureon Grace, the Aramark food service employee killed at Smith State Prison in June 2024, began her employment at the prison in January 2024, according to WTOC.
Brian Adams alleged to have accepted money to move inmate Weekes out of solitary confinement Legal fact
As Warden of Smith State Prison, Brian Adams is alleged to have accepted money to move inmate Weekes out of solitary confinement as part of a bribery scheme.
Desmond Hill death at Smith State Prison Case detail
Desmond Hill, 35, died April 9, 2021 at Smith State Prison of strangulation. According to a family member, the day before his death he called his mother and reported he was in 'the hole' with a cellmate who said he was going to kill him.
Yolanda Byrd promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith SP Case detail
GDC Interim Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Yolanda Byrd to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith State Prison, effective December 1, 2018.
Smith SP facility turnover rate 2011 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' December 2013 'State Corrections and Community Officers' report lists Smith State Prison's facility turnover rate as 27% in 2011.
27%
PREA audit of Smith State Prison: 3 standards exceeded, 42 met, 0 not met Finding
A Prison Rape Elimination Act audit of Smith State Prison, conducted by auditor Robert Lanier of Diversified Correctional Services LLC, found 3 standards exceeded (115.11, 115.51, 115.87), 42 standards met, and 0 standards not met.
Layton Lester identified as attacker of Officer Clark Case detail
GDC identified the inmate who fatally attacked officer Robert Clark as Layton Lester, who was serving a life sentence stemming from a 2007 killing and armed robbery in Tift County.
Brian Adams promoted to Warden at Smith State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Brian Adams, Superintendent at Appling Integrated Treatment Facility, to Warden at Smith State Prison, effective October 1, 2019.
Federal drone-smuggling indictment names Smith State Prison inmate Kelvin Rogers Case detail
A federal indictment named Kelvin Rogers, also known as 'Gangsta,' 38, currently incarcerated at Smith State Prison in Glennville, Georgia, as a defendant in a conspiracy to use drones to deliver drugs and contraband cell phones to Georgia prisons.
Kemp hired Guidehouse amid Smith State Prison kitchen worker shooting Case detail
The AJC reported that Governor Kemp's announcement of a Guidehouse Inc. assessment of Georgia's prison system came amid the fatal shooting of a kitchen worker by a prisoner at Smith State Prison on a Sunday.
GDC Office of Public Affairs describes shakedown response to gun report at Smith State Prison Policy
GDC's Office of Public Affairs said a report of a gun inside Smith State Prison was investigated by the Office of Professional Standards, a targeted shakedown was conducted the following morning, and a full facility shakedown turned up no leads.
Smith State Prison opened in 1993 Statistic
GDC's facility page states Smith State Prison opened in 1993.
1,993 year
Indictment describes Yves Saint Laurent Squad as contraband-smuggling gang at Smith State Prison Case detail
An indictment establishes Weekes, Kraft, and Jones as members of the 'Yves Saint Laurent Squad,' described as a group that profits from smuggling contraband into Smith State Prison and uses violence to do it; Weekes, who entered Smith State Prison in 2019, is listed as the group's president and has claimed 'it is his prison.'
DOJ report: Gang fight after warden's arrest injures 9 at Smith SP (February 8, 2023) Case detail
The DOJ's findings report states that hours after the arrest of Smith State Prison's Warden, Brian Adams, was announced on February 8, 2023, a gang fight broke out in a housing unit at Smith. Nine incarcerated persons were injured from stabbing wounds, six requiring hospitalization, with two of those sent out by airlift. Almost 90 minutes elapsed between when staff first observed the fighting and when the first wounded person was airlifted to a hospital.
Brian Adams named Warden of Smith State Prison October 1, 2019 Case detail
The Georgia Virtue reported that Brian Adams was named Warden of Smith State Prison on October 1, 2019, following 'a summer full of riots and extreme gang violence at Smith SP, which resulted in a host of murders inside the walls as well as dozens of criminal indictments for the riots and violence.'
Brian Adams alleged to have accepted money to permit contraband into Smith State Prison Legal fact
As Warden, Brian Adams is alleged to have accepted money to permit contraband into Smith State Prison.
Hiwatha Abdulcah Hakeem Jr. death at Smith State Prison Case detail
Hiwatha Abdulcah Hakeem Jr., 26, died April 12, 2021 at Smith State Prison of multiple stab wounds. An incident report shows four other prisoners involved. A lawsuit alleges the four attackers had a history of violence and that prison officials failed to provide timely and adequate medical care after the assault.
Eric Cox promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith SP Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Eric Cox to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith State Prison effective February 1, 2021.
Smith SP facility turnover rate 2012 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' December 2013 'State Corrections and Community Officers' report lists Smith State Prison's facility turnover rate as 41% in 2012.
41%
Christopher Ray Reynolds died at Smith State Prison July 1, 2021 Case detail
Christopher Ray Reynolds, 38, died July 1, 2021 at Smith State Prison of blunt and sharp force injuries to the head and neck, according to the AJC's list of prison homicides.
Layton Lester's underlying sentence Case detail
Layton Lester, the inmate charged in corrections officer Robert Clark's death at Smith State Prison, was serving a life sentence for a murder conviction stemming from a 2007 killing and armed robbery in Tift County.
Warden Brian Adams booked into Tattnall County Jail Case detail
Brian Dennis Adams, Warden at Smith State Prison, was booked into the Tattnall County Jail on February 8, 2023, following a Georgia Bureau of Investigation probe.
Operation Night Drop indicts 23 defendants for drone deliveries to Georgia prisons Case detail
Two newly unsealed federal indictments, USA v. Hall et al and USA v. Harris et al, charge 23 defendants in widespread conspiracies that used drones to deliver methamphetamine, marijuana, and cell phones to Georgia state prisons, under an investigation called Operation Night Drop. One defendant, Kelvin Rogers, is listed as currently incarcerated at Smith State Prison in Glennville, Ga.
GDC Commissioner Oliver noted staff confidence in new Smith warden Finding
Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Tyrone Oliver said he recognized the need for reforms at Smith State Prison and other state prisons, and staff told him they were happy the new warden was there because there was more accountability and rules being enforced.
Commissioner Oliver cites Smith State Prison as evidence single cells reduce violence Quote
At a legislative hearing, GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver said there's evidence of less violent conflict among inmates living in single-bed cells, and referenced fewer incidents reported at Smith State Prison in Glennville since recently moving more of the population to single cells, saying "When you look at our violence and most of our homicides we have it is occurring in double-man cells."
Smith State Prison housing layout per GDC Policy
GDC's facility page describes Smith State Prison's housing as 16 general population housing units and one administrative segregation/isolation building, with 11 of the 16 housing units having 48 cells where 43 cells hold 2 offenders per cell and the remaining 5 cells hold 3 offenders per cell for a total of 101 offenders per unit, and one housing unit with 48 cells capable of housing 2 offenders per cell for a total of 96 offenders.
Inmate Jaydrekus Hart fatally shoots Aramark worker at Smith SP (June 16, 2024) Case detail
On June 16, 2024, a Georgia state prison inmate shot and killed an Aramark food service employee at Smith State Prison in Glennville, then shot himself. GDC identified the inmate as Jaydrekus Hart. Hart shot the employee while working in the prison kitchen at 4:30 a.m., according to GDC. The inmate then shot himself and was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Summer 2019 riots and gang violence at Smith State Prison preceded Adams appointment Finding
According to The Georgia Virtue, the summer before Brian Adams was named warden in October 2019 was 'full of riots and extreme gang violence at Smith SP, which resulted in a host of murders inside the walls as well as dozens of criminal indictments for the riots and violence.'
Brian Adams alleged to have buried shanks and contraband cell phones in backyard to obstruct investigation Legal fact
As Warden, Brian Adams is alleged to have knowingly concealed prison shanks and contraband cell phones by having them buried in his backyard in an attempt to obstruct an investigation into his activity and YSL Squad at Smith State Prison.
Correctional Officer Robert Danford Clark death at Smith State Prison Case detail
Correctional Officer Robert Danford Clark, 42, died October 1, 2023 at Smith State Prison of multiple stab wounds. He was attacked by an inmate.
Brianna Edwards promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith SP Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Brianna Edwards, Unit Manager at Smith State Prison, to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith State Prison, effective July 1, 2026.
Smith SP facility turnover rate 2013 Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' December 2013 'State Corrections and Community Officers' report lists Smith State Prison's facility turnover rate as 34% in 2013.
34%
Anthony Joseph Zino III died at Smith State Prison April 5, 2023 Case detail
Anthony Joseph Zino III, 71, died April 5, 2023 at Smith State Prison of asphyxia and neck compression inflicted by another. The local coroner noted the body was badly decomposed and the man likely had been dead for days before discovery, per the AJC's homicide list.
Yolanda Byrd promoted to Deputy Warden of Security Case detail
GDC Interim Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Yolanda Byrd to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith State Prison, effective December 1, 2018.
Federal docket United States v. Harris includes Kelvin Rogers, Robert Harris, Thomas Cothran Legal fact
In the federal docket United States v. Harris, defendants include Kelvin Rogers, Robert Harris, and Thomas Cothran. A court order dated 10/16/2025 by Magistrate Judge Brian K. Epps granted motion 116 to exclude and denied motion 117 to exclude as to these defendants.
Former officer Andrew Phillips describes 16-hour shifts and violence at Smith State Prison Quote
Former Smith State Prison corrections officer Andrew Phillips said he and colleagues often had to work 16-hour days, five days a week, and that mandatory overtime combined with constant violence against both staff and incarcerated people led officers to quit, saying "The place was too brutal, too disgusting."
Smith State Prison population type and security level Policy
GDC's facility page states Smith State Prison serves Adult Male Felons and Close Security.
Officer Julia Roberts alleges retaliation for refusing contraband Case detail
Julia Roberts, a Correctional Officer II at Smith State Prison in charge of incoming and outgoing mail and contraband enforcement, alleged in her complaint that her refusal to allow unauthorized contraband into the institution resulted in bullying, harassment and retaliation from the Warden.
Aramark worker killed at Smith SP identified as Aureon Shavea Grace, 24 Case detail
GDC identified the Aramark worker killed in the June 2024 Smith State Prison shooting as Aureon Shavea Grace, age 24, of Statesboro. She died at the scene according to Tattnall County Coroner Bradley Anderson.
Kicklighter wrongful death suit targets former warden Adams and former officer Moore Legal fact
A wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Bobby C. Kicklighter against former Smith State Prison warden Brian Adams and former corrections officer Ireon Moore stems from Kicklighter's 2021 murder in an alleged botched murder-for-hire scheme connected to Smith State Prison.
Brian Adams indicted May 13, 2026 on RICO, false statements, evidence tampering, and oath violation charges Legal fact
The Attorney General's Prosecution Division presented evidence to a Tattnall County Grand Jury, which returned an indictment against Brian Adams on May 13, 2026, charging 1 count of Violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, 1 count of False Statements, 2 counts of Tampering with Evidence, and 2 counts of Violation of Oath by a Public Officer.
Smith State Prison homicide count Statistic
AJC's prison homicide list records 19 homicides at Smith State Prison.
19 homicides
Willesha Warren promoted to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Smith SP Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Willesha Warren to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Smith State Prison effective February 15, 2022.
2010 GDC staffing analysis recommended maintenance staff reductions at Smith Finding
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' special examination 'Maintenance of State Prisons' states that in 2010, a GDC staffing analysis recommended that maintenance staff be reduced at several prisons, including Rogers, Macon, and Smith, but GDC staff reported that the recommended changes did not take place.
AJC list header records 19 homicides at Smith State Prison Statistic
The AJC's homicide list carries a table header stating 'Smith State Prison: 19 homicides,' indicating 19 homicides recorded at the facility within the list's scope.
19 homicides
Officer Clark had six months of service at time of death Statistic
Clark had begun working as a state corrections officer six months ago, the agency said.
6 months
Douglas Williams reassigned as Warden of Smith State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the reassignment of Douglas Williams, formerly Warden of Dodge State Prison, as the new Warden of Smith State Prison effective January 1, 2015.
Section 1983 complaint filed against Smith State Prison warden and staff Legal fact
Miguel Jackson and Kelvin Stevenson filed a Section 1983 civil rights complaint in federal court against Smith State Prison Warden Joseph Catanzariti and numerous other named correctional staff.
Andrew Phillips worked 16-hour shifts at Smith State Prison starting in 2021 Case detail
In 2021, Andrew Phillips took a job at Georgia's Smith State Prison where he often had to work 16-hour shifts, five days a week, for pay that he says left him struggling financially.
Smith State Prison Tier I & II facility with STEP DOWN program Policy
GDC's current facility page for Smith State Prison describes it as a Tier I & II facility with a STEP DOWN program, and as host facility for Long Unit, Women's Probation Detention Center and Smith Transitional Center.
Roberts complaint references now-indicted Warden receiving contraband Case detail
The Julia Roberts complaint references a now-indicted Warden and other Smith State Prison staff members who were receiving the contraband Roberts refused to let in.
Smith SP had more homicides than any other Georgia prison in 2023 Statistic
The AJC reported that Smith State Prison in Glennville had more homicides than any other Georgia prison in 2023.
Judge Hallman found qualified-immunity arguments unpersuasive in Kicklighter case Legal fact
In the Kicklighter wrongful death case, Judge Ronald Hallman, a state court judge appointed to oversee the case in Tattnall County, found the defendants' qualified-immunity arguments 'unpersuasive' and that 'genuine disputes of material facts exist on multiple issues,' concluding a jury should decide.
Brian Adams alleged to have conducted money laundering transactions from bribery proceeds Legal fact
Adams is alleged to have conducted and attempted to conduct transactions involving the proceeds of unlawful activity (Bribery).
Jacob Beasley promoted to Warden at GDCP Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Jacob Beasley, Warden at Smith State Prison, to Warden at Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison, effective July 16, 2025.
GDC: Aramark worker and inmate Hart had prior personal relationship Finding
GDC told WGXA that its investigation revealed Aramark employee Grace and inmate Jaydrekus Hart had a personal relationship prior to the incident, and a suicide note was found.
Smith SP prison characteristics and performance measures (2012 report) Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' 'Maintenance of State Prisons' report lists Smith SP's prison characteristics and calculated performance measures as: Gross Square Feet 369,473; Capacity 1,615; # Staff 12; Security Level Close; Age 18; Region Southeast; Cost/Inmate $607.26; Cost/Sq Ft $2.65; Sq Ft/Inmate 229; # Inmates/Staff 135; # Sq Ft/Staff 30,789.
Drone meth drop at Smith State Prison, August 24, 2020 Case detail
The Georgia Virtue reported that on August 24, 2020, Deldrick Jones used a drone to drop methamphetamine onto the grounds of Smith State Prison, and that court records suggest Jones was recruited by Jessica Gerling and Nathan Weekes.
Kelvin Rogers named in USA v. Harris indictment Case detail
Kelvin Rogers, a/k/a 'Gangsta,' 38, was named as a defendant charged with conspiracy in the federal indictment USA v. Harris, et al., and is currently incarcerated at Smith State Prison in Glennville, Ga.
Operation Skyhawk arrests 150 suspects including 8 GDC employees Case detail
Operation Skyhawk led to the arrest of 150 suspects, including eight GDC employees who were immediately terminated, with over 1,000 criminal charges stemming from contraband introduction, drug trafficking, and felony offenses.
Andrew Phillips was sole officer for 600 men and left job in February 2023 Case detail
About a year into his job at Smith State Prison, Andrew Phillips worked a particularly difficult shift in which he was the only officer assigned to an area with 600 men, and he eventually left his job in February 2023.
Smith State Prison visitation hours Policy
GDC's facility page lists Smith State Prison's visitation hours as 9:00AM to 3:00PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and State Holidays.
Georgia Court of Appeals dismissed Adams and Moore appeals for lack of jurisdiction Legal fact
The Georgia Court of Appeals dismissed the appeals by former Smith State Prison warden Brian Adams and former officer Ireon Moore in the Kicklighter wrongful death case for lack of jurisdiction, sending the case back to Tattnall County for further action.
Smith State Prison described as level five facility with classification from minimum to close Policy
At an April 13, 2017 Board of Corrections meeting, Warden Douglas Williams described Smith State Prison as a level five facility, with classification levels from minimum to close.
Statewide GDC lockdown after gang-related fights Case detail
A GDC spokesperson told WGXA that 'gang-related' 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 a Wednesday, prompting a statewide GDC lockdown.
PREA audit cycle 3: 2 standards exceeded, 43 met, 0 not met Finding
A PREA audit of Smith State Prison by auditor Mable P. Wheeler found 2 standards exceeded (115.11 Zero tolerance; 115.87 Data collection), 43 standards met, and 0 standards not met.
Smith SP FY18 average standard bed count Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' performance audit of GDC lists Smith State Prison, Male, Close risk level, with a FY18 Average Standard Bed Count of 1,200.
1,200 beds
Officer Clark assaulted with homemade weapon while escorting inmates Case detail
According to GDC, Correctional Officer Robert Clark was escorting two inmates from the dining hall at Smith State Prison when one inmate assaulted Clark from behind with a homemade weapon; the other inmate tried to step in to assist Clark but was also assaulted.
Tarmarshe Smith promoted to Deputy Warden of Security in 2016 Case detail
A GDC press release bio states that in 2016, Tarmarshe Smith was promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith State Prison.
Long County grand jury indicts three for murder of Jessica Gerling Case detail
A Long County grand jury indicted Nathan Weekes, Dennis Kraft, and Keisha Jones on charges including malice murder, felony murder, and aggravated assault in connection with the June 2021 death of Jessica Gerling, who the indictment identifies as a member of the 'Yves Saint Laurent Squad' gang tied to Smith State Prison.
GDC 2024 press releases contain no Smith State Prison death or disturbance notices Data gap
Searches of the GDC 2024 Press Releases page for 'Inmate Death Under Investigation', 'Smith State Prison', 'homicide' and 'disturbance' returned no match.
GDC sanctioned for discovery noncompliance in Kicklighter case Legal fact
In the Kicklighter civil case, Judge Hallman sanctioned the Georgia Department of Corrections for the agency's failure to comply with the discovery process in the Tattnall County case.
Douglas Williams listed as Warden of Smith State Prison at April 13, 2017 Board of Corrections meeting Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes list among those present Mr. Douglas Williams, Warden of Smith State Prison, at the April 13, 2017 meeting.
Inmate injured at Smith State Prison returned to facility Case detail
GDC told WGXA that one inmate injured at Smith State Prison had returned to the facility by the time of the report.
PREA audit cycle 3 facility capacity and population Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Smith State Prison listed designed facility capacity 1562, current population 1319, average daily population past 12 months 1381, and stated the facility had not been over capacity at any point in the past 12 months.
1,319 inmates vs. 1,562 designed capacity
Smith SP FY18 average special use bed count Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' performance audit of GDC lists Smith State Prison, Male, Close risk level, with a FY18 Average Special Use Bed Count of 288.
288 beds
Former Warden Brian Adams indicted in contraband smuggling operation Case detail
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr announced the indictment of former Smith State Prison Warden Brian Adams, 52, of Waycross, for his alleged involvement in a contraband smuggling operation tied to inmate Nathan Weekes and a prison gang known as YSL Squad.
Amended FY2025 budget: $40M for design of new prison Statistic
The Governor's Budget Report for Amended FY 2025 lists a Capital Projects Fund change for the Department of Corrections: 'Design of new prison, statewide' for $40,000,000, with no facility named.
$40.0M USD
Murder victim Jessica Gerling was corrections officer who smuggled for gang Case detail
Jessica Gerling, the murder victim, worked as a Corrections Officer at Smith State Prison while carrying on a romantic relationship with Nathan Weekes, and was fired in June 2020 for smuggling marijuana for the gang to sell to inmates, according to the indictment reported by WTOC.
Smith Correctional Institution opened in FY1994 Policy
GDC's FY1994 annual report stated that Smith Correctional Institution was one of five new prisons opened in FY94, along with Calhoun, Dooly, Macon, and Wilcox Correctional Institutions.
Source
GDC suspended visitation through April 10, 2020 due to COVID-19 Policy
GDC's statewide COVID-19 response suspended visitation through April 10, 2020 and suspended volunteer visits to facilities out of an abundance of caution.
Shafer death investigated as homicide by GDC OPS Case detail
GDC said the Shafer death was being investigated as a homicide by GDC's Office of Professional Standards, with the body turned over to the county coroner for transport to the GBI crime lab to determine cause of death, pending autopsy results.
GDC 2025 press releases contain no Smith State Prison death or disturbance notices Data gap
Searches of the GDC 2025 Press Releases page for 'Inmate Death Under Investigation', 'homicide', 'disturbance' and 'Inmate Death' returned no match.
Lawsuit alleges GDC staff warned of gun at Smith SP but failed to act before Grace killing Legal fact
A lawsuit filed by Deshonda Hagins, mother of Aureon Shavea Grace, alleges that Georgia Department of Corrections staff were warned there was a gun inside Smith State Prison but failed to act. The complaint states warnings came from inmates and were provided directly to multiple GDC officials, including during official investigations, and that no lockdown was initiated, no extensive search was conducted, and no protective measures were put in place.
Officer Ireon Moore arrested with $29,000 cash entering Smith State Prison Case detail
Ireon Moore, a GDC employee since March 2020, was arrested in April 2021 for entering Smith State Prison with $29,000 in cash; while her vehicle was searched by GDC investigators, her cell phone received a call from an inmate using a contraband phone inside Smith SP.
Smith State Prison satellite facilities include Long State Prison, Smith Transitional Center, and Women's Probation Detention Center Policy
At the April 2017 Board of Corrections meeting in Glennville, Warden Douglas Williams discussed housing population levels, security and non-security positions, and the satellite facilities (Long State Prison, Smith Transitional Center, and Women's Probation Detention Center).
Leaked video of stabbing at Smith State Prison Case detail
The Georgia Virtue reported a video leaked from Smith State Prison showing 'a violent inmate-on-inmate fight from Friday that ultimately sent four to the hospital,' with several inmates with knives and shanks stabbing another inmate on the ground repeatedly, and no corrections officers visible in the video.
PREA audit cycle 4: 0 exceeded, 45 met, 0 not met Finding
A PREA audit of Smith State Prison by auditor Darla P. OConnor found 0 standards exceeded, 45 standards met, and 0 standards not met.
Smith SP FY18 average physical bed count Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' performance audit of GDC lists Smith State Prison, Male, Close risk level, with a FY18 Average Physical Bed Count of 1,488.
1,488 beds
Layton Lester charged in Clark death and Willingham assault Case detail
GDC announced that Offender Layton Lester, GDC# 1000168433, would be charged in the assault and resulting death of Officer Robert Clark, as well as the assault of offender Marko Willingham, GDC# 1137040.
Amended FY2025 budget: $34.3M for locking control systems Statistic
The Governor's Budget Report for Amended FY 2025 lists a Capital Projects Fund item: 'Provide funds for design and construction to replace locking control systems at various facilities' for $34,262,515, with no facility named.
$34.3M USD
Indictment links January 2021 Bobby Kicklighter murder to YSL Squad Case detail
The indictment reported by WTOC also connects the January 2021 death of Bobby Kicklighter in Tattnall County to the Yves Saint Laurent Squad, with Keisha Jones, Christopher Sumlin, Nathan Weekes, and Aerial Murphy already charged with that murder. Investigators have called this a case of mistaken identity, with the intended target being a corrections officer who once lived on the same street.
Operation Night Drop indictments charge 23 defendants for drone drug delivery Case detail
Two newly unsealed federal indictments, USA v. Hall, et al. and USA v. Harris, et al., charge 23 defendants in conspiracies that used drones to deliver methamphetamine, marijuana, and cell phones to Georgia state prisons, part of Operation Night Drop.
DOJ USAO NDGA corruption press release does not mention Smith State Prison Data gap
A search of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia press release 'Further corruption involving Georgia Department of Corrections guards exposed' for 'Smith State Prison', 'Smith SP' and 'Glennville' returned no match.
Hagins lawsuit seeks jury trial and unspecified compensation Legal fact
The lawsuit over Aureon Grace's death at Smith State Prison seeks a jury trial and an unspecified amount of compensation.
Bobby Kicklighter, 88, murdered January 30, 2021 in botched murder-for-hire Case detail
88-year-old Bobby Kicklighter was murdered in his home on January 30, 2021 in a botched murder-for-hire scheme intended for Kicklighter's neighbor, a corrections officer at Smith State Prison.
Stabbing death of 31-year-old inmate at Smith State Prison Case detail
The Georgia Virtue reported that a Friday stabbing/fight at Smith State Prison followed another stabbing the preceding Wednesday that left a 31-year-old inmate dead, with GDC saying only that it was being investigated as a homicide.
PREA cycle 4 onsite audit dates Case detail
The onsite portion of the PREA audit of Smith State Prison ran from 2025-02-03 to 2025-02-06.
Smith SP capacity 1,200 plus 288 additional equals 1,488 total Statistic
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts' special examination of GDC lists Smith State Prison as a male, Close security-level facility with a capacity figure of 1,200, an additional figure of 288, for a total of 1,488.
1,488 beds
Amended FY2025 budget: $93.2M for modular correctional units Statistic
The Governor's Budget Report states that $93,203,352 is for 'sitework and construction of four 126-bed modular correctional units to facilitate offender population movement necessary for capital and security improvements,' with no facility named.
$93.2M USD
Indictment connects Jerry Lee Davis murder to YSL Squad Case detail
The indictment connects the murder of Jerry Lee Davis, a Wayne County man killed in 2021, stating that Weekes, Gerling, and Christopher Sumlin killed him.
2010 prison riot at Smith State Prison led to excessive force case Legal fact
The Eleventh Circuit described Jackson v. Catanzariti as a civil rights excessive force case arising out of a prison riot that occurred on December 31, 2010, at Smith State Prison in Glennville, Georgia.
Drone conspiracy charge carries 10 years to life penalty Legal fact
The primary charge in each of the two drone-conspiracy indictments, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute marijuana and methamphetamine, carries a statutory penalty of 10 years to life in prison.
FY2020 budget conference committee substitute contains no Smith State Prison line Data gap
A search of the Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 31 (FY2020) for 'Smith State Prison', 'Smith SP' and 'security system improvements at Smith' returned no match.
Jaydrekus Hart was serving 20 years for voluntary manslaughter, max release June 2043 Case detail
Inmate Jaydrekus Hart, who shot and killed Aureon Grace, was serving 20 years for voluntary manslaughter out of Carroll County with a maximum release date of June 2043, the GDC said.
Former Warden Brian Adams charged with bribery, false statements, RICO attempt Legal fact
Former Smith State Prison Warden Brian Adams was charged with False Statements and Writings, Violation of Oath by a Public Officer, Bribery, and Criminal Attempt - RICO Act in connection with the criminal enterprise uncovered during the Kicklighter investigation.
Georgia prisons recorded 38 homicides in 2023, topping previous record of 31 Statistic
The AJC's investigation states 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
Additional stabbing and assault at Smith State Prison Case detail
First responders transported two individuals on Monday of the same week for a stabbing and an assault with a pipe at Smith State Prison.
PREA audit cycle 4 facility capacity and population Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Smith State Prison listed designed facility capacity 1652, current population 1208, and average daily population past 12 months 1350.
1,208 inmates vs. 1,652 designed capacity
Smith SP lockdown before DOJ inspection March 27, 2023 Case detail
The DOJ's investigation report on Georgia prisons found that on March 27, 2023, Smith State Prison went into lockdown immediately before a DOJ site inspection, which GDC imposed because of a fight with weapons that morning following the serving of a Ramadan breakfast.
GBI investigation into Smith State Prison corruption requested May 31, 2022 Case detail
On Tuesday, May 31, 2022, the Georgia Attorney General's Office requested the GBI to investigate corruption at Smith State Prison based on evidence discovered while conducting a murder investigation.
Guidehouse hired after Smith State Prison homicide Case detail
Capitol Beat News Service reported that many of the spending recommendations Georgia Commissioner of Corrections Tyrone Oliver outlined came from Guidehouse Inc., 'a consultant the state hired last June after an inmate at Smith State Prison in Glennville shot and killed a food-service worker before turning the gun on himself.'
Six of 23 Operation Night Drop defendants were not in GDC custody Statistic
Of the 23 defendants in the two Operation Night Drop indictments, six were not in Georgia Department of Corrections custody at any time during the conspiracies, and each is alleged to have been in contact with incarcerated co-defendants in furtherance of the conspiracy.
6 defendants
Amended FY2026 budget conference committee substitute contains no Smith State Prison line Data gap
A search of the Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 973 (amended FY2026) for 'Smith State Prison', 'Smith SP' and 'Smith State' returned no match.
Kicklighter wrongful death suit filed in Tattnall County State Court Legal fact
The wrongful death lawsuit over Bobby Kicklighter's killing, seeking damages from former Warden Brian Adams and former Smith State Prison Corrections Officer Ireon Moore, was filed in Tattnall County State Court.
Smith State Prison recorded 19 homicides in AJC dataset Statistic
The AJC's investigation into Georgia prison homicides lists Smith State Prison with 19 homicides in its dataset of Georgia prison homicide victims.
19 homicides
GDC minimized Friday fight at Smith State Prison Finding
GDC minimized a Friday fight at Smith State Prison saying it was contained to just one dorm with non-life-threatening injuries.
Smith SP opened 1993; PREA narrative capacity 1,526 Statistic
GDC's PREA audit narrative for Smith State Prison states the facility opened in 1993 and has a capacity of 1,526.
1,526 capacity
May 2020 Smith SP waterboarding and assault by cellmate Case detail
The DOJ's investigation report on Georgia prisons found that in May 2020 at Smith State Prison, GDC staff informed emergency services responders that an incarcerated person had been tied up, beaten, and waterboarded by his cellmate, who also inserted multiple bars of soap.
Nathan Weekes indicted April 25, 2022 with three others Case detail
On April 25, 2022, Nathan Weekes, a Georgia Department of Corrections inmate, along with three other people, were indicted on numerous charges to include conspiracy to commit murder.
Inmates Jackson and Stevenson housed in Dormitory D-2 with ~95 others Case detail
Jackson and Stevenson were both inmates at Smith State Prison, with Jackson serving a fifty-year term for three armed robberies and Stevenson serving a twenty-year sentence for rape, both housed in Dormitory D-2 with approximately ninety-five other inmates.
Inmate George Lo at Smith State Prison indicted for drone smuggling conspiracy Case detail
George Lo, 27, described as an inmate currently at Smith State Prison in Glennville, Ga., was indicted along with his brother Nicholas Lo and Cheikh Hassane Toure on a charge of Conspiracy, with George Lo and Nicholas Lo also charged with Owning an Unregistered Aircraft.
Court of Appeals declined Kicklighter case on procedural issue a year after request Legal fact
A year after two former Smith State Prison officials asked a higher court to halt the wrongful death lawsuit, the Georgia Court of Appeals said it would not hear the case because of a procedural issue.
Christopher Michael Redwine, 45, died Sept. 27, 2021 at Smith State Prison of asphyxia due to manual strangulation Case detail
The AJC's investigation lists Smith State Prison homicide victim Christopher Michael Redwine, age 45, who died Sept. 27, 2021 of asphyxia due to manual strangulation.
Smith State Prison designed capacity and population (2016 PREA audit) Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Smith State Prison lists the designed facility capacity as 1560 and the current population of the facility as 1487.
1,560 designed capacity vs. 1,487 current population
Smith SP housing layout: 18 units, double-bunked cells and open dorms Finding
GDC's PREA audit narrative describes Smith State Prison as having 18 housing units; buildings D, E, F, G, H, J, and K each have 2 sides with 48 double-bunked cells housing 96 offenders per dorm, and L building has four open dormitories each with 16 double bunks on both bottom and top range housing 64 offenders per dorm.
2021 highest homicides at Smith SP; 2020 highest at Macon Statistic
The DOJ found that in 2021 the highest number of homicides at any one Georgia prison occurred at Smith State Prison, while in 2020 the most homicides at any one prison (eight) occurred at Macon State Prison.
Weekes involved in contraband smuggling inside Smith State Prison Finding
The murder investigation showed that Nathan Weekes was involved with contraband smuggling inside Smith State Prison.
Eleventh Circuit affirmed district court judgments in Jackson v. Catanzariti Legal fact
The Eleventh Circuit affirmed the district court's final judgments, holding the district court did not abuse its discretion in granting the Rule 41 dismissal or in its evidentiary rulings.
Georgia Virtue: criminal enterprise at Smith State Prison linked to at least three murders Finding
The Georgia Virtue reported that a criminal enterprise operating within Smith State Prison, along with GDC's inability to secure the prison overall, has resulted in the murders of at least three citizens and multiple aggravated assaults on the outside.
Contraband gun killing of food-service worker at Smith State Prison, June 2024 Case detail
DOJ's October 2024 findings report states that in June 2024 an incarcerated person at Smith State Prison used a contraband gun to kill a food-service worker and then take his own life.
All GDC facilities on lockdown after gang-related altercation at Smith SP (April 1, 2026) Case detail
On a Wednesday, two inmates were airlifted to local hospitals following what officials believe to have been a gang-related altercation at Smith State Prison, contained to one dorm, prompting GDC to place all Georgia Department of Corrections facilities on lockdown 'until further notice' out of 'an abundance of caution.' The article was published April 1, 2026.
Terence Kilpatrick promoted to Warden of Smith State Prison effective February 1, 2018 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Terence Kilpatrick to Warden at Smith State Prison effective February 1, 2018, according to a GDC press release.
Hiwatha Abdulcah Hakeem Jr., 26, died April 12, 2021 at Smith State Prison of multiple stab wounds; lawsuit alleges failure to provide timely medical care Case detail
The AJC's investigation lists Smith State Prison homicide victim Hiwatha Abdulcah Hakeem Jr., age 26, who died April 12, 2021 of multiple stab wounds. An incident report shows four other prisoners involved, and a lawsuit alleges the attackers had a history of violence and that prison officials failed to provide timely and adequate medical care after the assault.
Smith State Prison staff assigned (2016 PREA audit) Statistic
GDC's PREA audit of Smith State Prison recorded 287 staff assigned to the facility in the prior 12 months.
287 staff
PREA report records 18 inmate housing units Statistic
GDC's PREA audit report for Smith State Prison recorded the number of inmate/resident/detainee housing units as 18.
18 housing units
2023 Smith SP homicides: seven incarcerated people and one officer Statistic
The DOJ found that in 2023 seven incarcerated people and one correctional officer were killed in homicides at Smith State Prison.
8 homicides
Keisha Janae Jones and Nathan Weekes indicted for murder of former Smith SP officer Case detail
A grand jury indicted Keisha Janae Jones and Nathan Weekes, who were already facing charges for their alleged roles in the contraband-centric criminal enterprise operating from Smith State Prison, with the charges including Malice Murder and Felony Murder.
Smith State Prison constructed in 1993 Statistic
Smith State Prison's construction year was listed as 1993.
1,993 year
Plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed seven defendants before jury selection Legal fact
Just before jury selection, plaintiffs' counsel moved to voluntarily dismiss seven of the remaining defendants under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41; the court granted the motion and imposed judgment in favor of seven defendants, leaving only Officers Catanzariti and Harrison.
Georgia Virtue confirms 23 defendants in drone conspiracy indictments Case detail
Two newly unsealed federal indictments named 23 defendants who allegedly participated in widespread conspiracies to use drones to deliver methamphetamine, marijuana, and cell phones to Georgia prisons, and the indictments were unsealed in federal court in the Southern District of Georgia as USA v. Hall, et al. and USA v. Harris, et al.
Two assaults at Smith State Prison within four days in April 2023 Case detail
DOJ's findings report describes two assaults at Smith State Prison within four days in April 2023: on April 5, 2023, an incarcerated man was found dead, possibly strangled by his roommate in a segregated housing unit, with the local coroner noting the body was badly decomposed and the man likely dead for over two days; four days earlier, on April 1, 2023, another person was assaulted by multiple incarcerated people in another housing unit at Smith.
Inmate found dead by apparent suicide at Smith SP; same day three inmates in altercation Case detail
WSAV reported that an inmate was found dead in his single-man cell at Smith State Prison on a Saturday morning. According to GDC, the inmate died by apparent suicide. The Tattnall County coroner confirmed the death and said the inmate would be taken to the GBI crime lab for an autopsy. On the same day, in an unrelated incident, three inmates were involved in an altercation resulting in non-life-threatening injuries.
Inmate Calvin Denson killed at Smith State Prison, death investigated as homicide Case detail
WTOC reported April 28, 2023 that an inmate was killed at Smith State Prison on the Wednesday before publication, according to GDC. Around 9:10 p.m., a correctional officer was told by an inmate of a physical altercation involving seven inmates; Calvin Denson was found in his cell with injuries, transported to a local hospital and pronounced deceased. GDC said the death was being investigated as a homicide.
Correctional Officer Robert Danford Clark, 42, died Oct. 1, 2023 at Smith State Prison of multiple stab wounds after inmate attack Case detail
The AJC's investigation lists correctional officer Robert Danford Clark, age 42, as dying Oct. 1, 2023 of multiple stab wounds after being attacked by an inmate at Smith State Prison.
Smith State Prison security levels (2016 PREA audit) Policy
GDC's PREA audit of Smith State Prison listed the facility's security/custody levels as Close, Medium, Minimum.
Gang fight after warden arrest: nine injured, six hospitalized, two airlifted Case detail
The DOJ found that hours after the arrest of Smith State Prison's Warden, Brian Adams, was announced on February 8, 2023, a gang fight broke out in a housing unit at Smith in which nine incarcerated persons were injured from stabbing wounds, six requiring hospitalization and two of those sent out by airlift, and that almost 90 minutes elapsed between when staff first observed the fighting and when the first wounded person was airlifted to a hospital.
Smith State Prison described as level five facility in 2017 board minutes Policy
The Board of Corrections' April 2017 meeting minutes state that the meeting was held in Glennville, Georgia, where Warden Douglas Williams from Smith State Prison presented a facility update describing housing population levels, security and non-security positions, satellite facilities, and education and programming; Williams described Smith State Prison as a level five facility, with classification levels from minimum to close.
Smith State Prison opened in 1993 Statistic
Smith State Prison's opened year was listed as 1993.
1,993 year
Body scanners installed at Smith State Prison in August 2016 Policy
GDC's FY2017 fiscal year report states that the first phase of body scanners was implemented in 2016, with installation of scanners at Georgia State Prison and Smith State Prison in August.
Heath v. Adams dismissed without prejudice Legal fact
A federal civil rights case, Heath v. Adams, filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia, was dismissed without prejudice.
Smith State Prison Warden Brian Adams arrested on RICO charges, February 2023 Case detail
DOJ's findings report states that in February 2023 the Warden of Smith State Prison, Brian Adams, was arrested on Georgia RICO charges for his alleged involvement in an extensive drug-smuggling conspiracy led by a person who was incarcerated at Smith.
All GDC facilities on lockdown after Smith SP shooting; visitation cancelled only at Smith (June 16, 2024) Policy
Following the shooting at Smith State Prison, officials told WTOC that all Georgia Department of Corrections facilities were on lockdown that Sunday, but visitation was only cancelled at Smith State Prison.
Kicklighter suit alleges Adams and Moore allowed illegal mobile phone use Legal fact
The Kicklighter civil suit alleges that defendants Adams and Moore 'allowed, tolerated, and assisted in the illegal use of mobile phones' that facilitated communicating a plot against a correctional officer, and that the conspiracy would not have been carried out had defendants enforced federal and state law and GDC's operating procedures.
Food service worker Aureon Shavea Grace, 24, fatally shot May 25, 2024 at Smith State Prison by inmate working in kitchen Case detail
The AJC's investigation lists food service worker Aureon Shavea Grace, age 24, as dying May 25, 2024 of a gunshot wound to the head, fatally shot by an inmate who was working in the Smith State Prison kitchen.
Smith State Prison Warden Douglas Williams (2016 PREA audit) Policy
GDC's PREA audit of Smith State Prison names Douglas Williams as the facility's Chief Executive Officer with the title Warden.
April 5, 2023 death at Smith SP possibly strangulation in segregation Case detail
On April 5, 2023, an incarcerated man at Smith State Prison was discovered dead, possibly strangled to death by his roommate in a segregated housing unit; the local coroner noted the body was badly decomposed and the man likely had been dead for over an unspecified period.
Smith State Prison satellite facilities listed in 2017 board minutes Policy
Warden Douglas Williams' April 2017 facility update listed Smith State Prison's satellite facilities as Long State Prison, Smith Transitional Center, and Women's Probation Detention Center.
Smith State Prison physical capacity 1615, operational capacity 1463 Statistic
GDC listed Smith State Prison's physical capacity as 1615 and operational capacity as 1463.
1,615 beds vs. 1,463 operational capacity
Fire Station #20 opened at Smith State Prison in April 2016 Policy
At a Board of Corrections meeting, Assistant Commissioner Timothy C. Ward spoke on the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Fire Station #20 at Smith State Prison, located in Glennville, Georgia, serving Tattnall and Long counties and the City of Glennville.
Three inmates injured in Smith State Prison fight, two flown to Savannah Case detail
Three inmates were injured in a fight at Smith State Prison in Glennville on a Wednesday night, in a story published Feb. 8, 2023; two were flown to Savannah for treatment and a third was taken by ambulance to Evans Memorial Hospital, and it took about 90 minutes for officers to get the situation under control.
Smith State Prison among 24 prisons in DOJ investigation Finding
DOJ's findings report lists Smith State Prison among the 24 Georgia prisons housing men or women at close- and medium-security levels that were part of its investigation, alongside facilities including Georgia State Prison, Hancock State Prison, Hays State Prison, Johnson State Prison, Macon State Prison, Phillips State Prison, Pulaski State Prison, Rutledge State Prison, Telfair State Prison, Valdosta State Prison, Ware State Prison, Wheeler State Prison, and Wilcox State Prison.
FY2025 amended capital projects budget contains no Smith State Prison line Data gap
A search of HB 67 (FY 2025A) Capital Projects and Bonds for 'Smith State Prison' and 'Smith' returned no match.
Judge Hallman denied motion to dismiss Kicklighter suit in July 2024 Legal fact
In July 2024, Judge Hallman denied Adams' and Moore's motion to dismiss the Kicklighter civil suit, and the Georgia Court of Appeals denied a request to review the case in August 2024.
Calvin Darrell Denson Jr., 31, died April 26, 2023 at Smith State Prison of stab wound to chest; seven inmates involved in fight Case detail
The AJC's investigation lists Smith State Prison homicide victim Calvin Darrell Denson Jr., age 31, who died April 26, 2023 of a stab wound to the chest, with GDC saying seven inmates were involved in a fight.
PREA audit visit dates for Smith State Prison Methodology note
A PREA audit of Smith State Prison records a facility visit date of April 18 and 19, 2016, and a report submission date of April 22, 2016.
March 27, 2023 lockdown: seven hospitalized, two by air Case detail
On March 27, 2023, Smith State Prison went into lockdown immediately before a DOJ site inspection, which GDC imposed because of a fight with weapons early that morning following the serving of a Ramadan breakfast inside the D-2 dorm, with seven individuals requiring hospitalization, two by air.
James Adams Jr. died at Smith State Prison Nov. 8, 2023 Case detail
James Adams Jr., 72, died Nov. 8, 2023 at Smith State Prison of blunt force trauma to the head and neck, per AJC's homicide list.
Smith State Prison renovated in 2009 Statistic
Smith State Prison was listed with a renovation year of 2009.
2,009 year
Operation Ghost Guard charged more than 45 GDC officers Case detail
A U.S. Attorney's Office press release on the February 11, 2016, Operation Ghost Guard announcement states that more than 45 current and former Georgia Department of Corrections officers and contract correctional officers were charged.
Lynn v. Ward sought transfer from Smith State Prison Legal fact
In Lynn v. Ward, the plaintiff sought injunctive relief requiring his transfer from Smith State Prison.
Highest number of homicides at any Georgia prison occurred at Smith in 2021 Statistic
DOJ's findings report states that in 2021 the highest number of homicides at any one Georgia prison occurred at Smith State Prison.
Five inmates hospitalized after gang-related fights at four GDC prisons 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 a Wednesday.
5 inmates hospitalized
Taylor Harrison Brooks, 26, died April 10, 2020 at Smith State Prison of multiple stab wounds Case detail
Taylor Harrison Brooks, 26, died April 10, 2020 at Smith State Prison of multiple stab wounds, per AJC's homicide list.
PREA audit standards exceeded and met (2016) Statistic
A PREA audit summary of findings for Smith State Prison lists the number of standards exceeded as 3, the number of standards met as 38, and the number of standards not applicable as 2.
3 standards exceeded vs. 38 standards met
Smith State Prison housing: 16 general population units and one segregation building Statistic
Smith State Prison was described as having 16 general population housing units and one administrative segregation/isolation building.
16 housing units
Daniel v. Kilpatrick claims proceeded past screening but summary judgment granted to defendants Legal fact
In Daniel v. Kilpatrick, the plaintiff's excessive force, deliberate indifference, and retaliation claims against defendants Rivera, Clark, Smith, and Kilpatrick were allowed to proceed past screening, but the court later granted the defendants' motion for summary judgment.
Seven incarcerated people and one officer killed in homicides at Smith in 2023 Statistic
DOJ's findings report states that in 2023 seven incarcerated people and one correctional officer were killed in homicides at Smith State Prison.
8 homicides
2022AB general obligation bond project list contains no Smith State Prison line Data gap
A search of the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission project list for Georgia 2022AB General Obligation Bonds for 'Smith State Prison', 'Smith SP' and 'Smith' returned no match.
All GDC prisons placed on statewide lockdown after gang-related fights Policy
GDC said all of its lockdown-triggering 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.
John Bretleir Reyes Cardona, 24, died April 20, 2020 at Smith State Prison of exsanguination from stab wound to neck Case detail
John Bretleir Reyes Cardona, 24, died April 20, 2020 at Smith State Prison of exsanguination (severe loss of blood) from a stab wound to the neck, per AJC's homicide list.
PREA audit housing units toured (2016) Methodology note
A PREA audit of Smith State Prison was conducted on April 18 & 19, 2016 by Katherine Brown, Certified PREA auditor, touring a total of 8 housing units: six general population units and two tier program/administrative detention/segregation units plus the kitchen, laundry, programs area, and work areas.
GDC suspended statewide visitation through April 10, 2020 Policy
Following Governor Kemp's directive, GDC suspended visitation at all correctional facilities statewide, effective through April 10, 2020, while offenders retained access to loved ones via mail, phone calls, and GOAL devices.
GDC mortality reports: 7 homicides in 2018, 13 in 2019 Statistic
According to GDC mortality reports cited by the DOJ, there were 7 homicides systemwide in Georgia prisons in 2018, and that number jumped to 13 homicides in 2019.
13 homicides vs. 7 2018 homicides
Lynn v. Ward: Eighth Amendment claim survives, GDC dismissed Legal fact
In Lynn v. Ward (S.D. Ga., Statesboro Division), the court allowed the plaintiff's Eighth Amendment claim against defendants Williams, Thomas, Wilcox, and Ward to proceed while dismissing the claims against other named defendants and the Georgia Department of Corrections.
11 housing units have 48 cells each, capacity 101 per unit Statistic
Of Smith State Prison's 16 housing units, 11 had 48 cells each, with 43 cells holding 2 offenders and 5 cells holding 3 offenders, for a total of 101 offenders per unit.
101 offenders per unit
Amerson v. Bland multiple claims allowed to proceed past screening Legal fact
In Amerson v. Bland, the court allowed the plaintiff's unsafe-prison-conditions claim against Kilpatrick, Byrd, and Smith, excessive-force and retaliation claim against Waycaster, medical deliberate-indifference claim against Waycaster and Sgt. Quan Jackson, and failure-to-intervene claim against Sumner to proceed past initial screening.
Lockdown at Smith State Prison before DOJ inspection, March 27, 2023 Case detail
DOJ's findings report states that on March 27, 2023, Smith State Prison went into lockdown immediately before a DOJ site inspection; GDC imposed the lockdown because of a fight with weapons early that morning following the serving of a Ramadan breakfast inside the D-2 dorm, and seven individuals required hospitalization, two by air.
2019AB bond project list contains no Smith State Prison line Data gap
A search of the State of Georgia final project list for Series 2019AB bonds for 'Smith State Prison' and 'Smith SP' returned no match.
Jacob Beasley reassigned as Warden of Smith State Prison effective March 1, 2023 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Jacob Beasley to Warden at Smith State Prison effective March 1, 2023, according to a GDC press release.
Justin Nathaniel Wilkerson, 25, died Jan. 5, 2021 at Smith State Prison of asphyxia, neck compression Case detail
Justin Nathaniel Wilkerson, 25, died Jan. 5, 2021 at Smith State Prison of asphyxia, neck compression, per AJC's homicide list.
Smith SP health inspection score 68 in 2022 under Warden Brian Adams Statistic
Smith State Prison received a health inspection score of 68 in 2022 under then-Warden Brian Adams.
68 health inspection score
June 2024 contraband gun killing at Smith SP Case detail
The DOJ's October 2024 report found that in June 2024, an incarcerated person at Smith State Prison used a contraband gun to kill a food-service worker and then take his own life.
Contraband warrants against four people Case detail
GDC secured warrants against Sameerah Adams, Dannaye Walker, Jamie Leigh Dean, and Moses Leroy Echols including charges of Items Prohibited under O.C.G.A. 16-11-106 and Possession of Marijuana with Intent under O.C.G.A. 16-13-30, with Sameerah Adams and Jamie Leigh Dean additionally charged with Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony under O.C.G.A. 16-11-106.
One housing unit has 48 cells for 96 offenders Statistic
One of Smith State Prison's housing units had 48 cells capable of housing 2 offenders per cell for a total of 96 offenders in that unit.
96 offenders
Budget adjustment reduced funds for privatizing food services at Smith State Prison Policy
The AFY2024 and FY2025 Governor's Budget Report lists a budget adjustment: 'Reduce funds for privatizing food services at Coastal State Prison, Arrendale State Prison, Smith State Prison, and Valdosta State Prison' with an amount of (657,734).
Jury trial held in Jackson v. Catanzariti Legal fact
A jury trial in Jackson v. Catanzariti was held before Chief Judge J. Randal Hall on June 15, 2023.
Gang fight at Smith State Prison hours after warden's arrest, February 8, 2023 Case detail
DOJ's findings report states that hours after the arrest of Smith State Prison's Warden, Brian Adams, was announced on February 8, 2023, a gang fight broke out in a housing unit at Smith in which nine incarcerated persons were injured from stabbing wounds, six requiring hospitalization, with two of those sent out by airlift.
2023A/2023B bond project list contains no Smith State Prison line Data gap
A search of the State of Georgia General Obligation Bonds, 2023A and 2023B project list for 'Smith State Prison' and 'Smith' returned no match.
Desmond Hill, 35, died April 9, 2021 at Smith State Prison of strangulation Case detail
Desmond Hill, 35, died April 9, 2021 at Smith State Prison of strangulation, per AJC's homicide list.
Smith SP health inspection scores: 85 in June 2025, 82 in January 2024 Statistic
Smith State Prison was last inspected in June 2025, receiving a health inspection score of 85, and in January 2024, receiving a score of 82.
85 health inspection score vs. 82 January 2024 score
Two brutal assaults in four days at Smith SP, April 2023 Case detail
The DOJ's report on an investigation of Georgia prisons found that within a span of four days in April 2023, two brutal assaults occurred at Smith State Prison, one resulting in a man's death; on April 5, 2023, an incarcerated man at Smith was discovered dead, possibly strangled to death by his roommate in a segregated housing unit.
Officer Clark had five months of GDC employment per AJC Statistic
Correctional officer Robert Clark was stabbed to death in October at Smith State Prison, and had been employed by GDC for only five months, according to the AJC.
5 months
Four housing units are open dormitories with 64 inmates each Statistic
Four of Smith State Prison's sixteen housing units were open dormitories, each consisting of 32 double beds for a total of 64 inmates per unit.
64 inmates per unit
FY2021 bond authorization for security system improvements at Smith State Prison Policy
GSFIC's 'General Obligation Bond Authorizations' document lists a FY2021 project: 'Design and construct security system improvements at Smith, Macon, and Phillips state prisons' with an amount of 1,575,000.
Stephens v. Smith State Prison dismissed for failure to prosecute Legal fact
In Stephens v. Smith State Prison, the court dismissed the complaint without prejudice for failure to follow the court's order and failure to prosecute, and denied the plaintiff leave to appeal in forma pauperis.
Hundreds of GDC employees arrested for contraband-related corruption Finding
DOJ's findings report cites hundreds of GDC employees arrested for staff corruption related to contraband, including the warden of Smith State Prison in 2023, for crimes related to contraband.
2021AB general obligation bond project list contains no Smith State Prison line Data gap
A search of the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission project list for Georgia 2021AB General Obligation Bonds for 'Smith' and 'Smith State Prison' returned no match.
Derrick Dionte Deshun Harvey, 26, died June 25, 2021 at Smith State Prison of stab wound to chest Case detail
Derrick Dionte Deshun Harvey, 26, died June 25, 2021 at Smith State Prison of a stab wound to the chest, per AJC's homicide list.
February 16 DPH inspection under Warden Charles Mims found violations, food discarded Case detail
Smith State Prison, run by Warden Charles Mims, was evaluated on February 16 by the Georgia Department of Public Health, which noted new and repeat violations and in some instances ordered food discarded due to conditions.
Warden Brian Adams arrested February 2023 on RICO charges Case detail
The DOJ's report on an investigation of Georgia prisons found that in February 2023, the Warden of Smith State Prison, Brian Adams, was arrested on Georgia RICO charges for his alleged involvement in an extensive drug-smuggling conspiracy led by a person who was incarcerated at Smith.
Stevenson and Jackson hammer-beating lawsuit against Smith State Prison officers Case detail
A news report said Kelvin Stevenson and Miguel Jackson, represented by civil rights lawyer Mario Williams, sued correctional officers at Smith State Prison for beating them with a hammer, in violation of their civil rights under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983.
Smith State Prison host facility for Long Unit, Women's PDC, Smith TC Finding
Smith State Prison was listed as the host facility for Long Unit, Women's Probation Detention Center and Smith Transitional Center.
All GDC facilities locked down after gang-related altercation at Smith State Prison Case detail
All Georgia Department of Corrections facilities were placed on lockdown after two inmates were injured during an altercation at Smith State Prison; the altercation was believed to be gang-related and contained to one dorm.
Argueta v. Smith State Prison dismissed for failure to state a claim Legal fact
In Argueta v. Smith State Prison, a magistrate judge recommended that the complaint filed by Enio Humberto Argueta be dismissed for failure to state a claim upon which relief may be granted, and the district judge adopted that recommendation and closed the case.
DOJ visited Smith State Prison during 2022-2023 investigation Finding
DOJ's findings report states that as part of its investigation, DOJ visited Smith State Prison, among the prisons visited in 2022 and 2023.
Nathan Michael Mahan, 37, died Oct. 23, 2022 at Smith State Prison of stab wounds Case detail
Nathan Michael Mahan, 37, died Oct. 23, 2022 at Smith State Prison of stab wounds, per AJC's homicide list.
Smith State Prison housing configuration Policy
Housing at Smith State Prison consists of 16 general population housing units and one administrative segregation/isolation building, with eleven of the sixteen housing units having 48 cells, forty-three of which are double occupancy while the remaining five can house three offenders per cell.
Inspection violation: broken sink valves, spigots, spray nozzle; clogged drains Finding
An inspection of Smith State Prison cited a new violation: handwashing sink valves not working and sink not secured; hose bibb/spigot at four sinks broken and not shutting off; dishwasher room spray nozzle and faucet broken and not shutting off; floor drains clogged with trash.
Gang fight after warden arrest: nine injured from stabbing wounds Case detail
The DOJ's report on an investigation of Georgia prisons found that hours after the arrest of Smith State Prison's Warden, Brian Adams, was announced on February 8, 2023, a gang fight broke out in a housing unit at Smith, and nine incarcerated persons were injured from stabbing wounds.
Aureon Grace killing was second staff killing at Smith SP in under a year Finding
The Aureon Grace killing was the second killing of a staff member at Smith State Prison in less than a year; Correctional Officer Robert Clark, 42, died in October after being stabbed in the back by an inmate with a homemade weapon.
Eric Cox promoted to Deputy Warden of Security Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Eric Cox to Deputy Warden of Security at Smith State Prison effective February 1, 2021.
Fire Station #20 opened with four inmate firefighters Policy
A GDC inmate fire station, Fire Station #20, opened at Smith State Prison with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 13, staffed initially by four inmate firefighters serving Tattnall and Long counties and the city of Glennville.
GDC correctional officer vacancy rates 2021-2023 Statistic
GDC's average correctional officer (CO) 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
Tattnall Journal officer-killed article lacks indictment and trial details Data gap
A search of the Tattnall Journal article 'Correctional Officer killed at Smith State Prison' for 'Lester', 'indicted', 'grand jury', 'charged with murder' and 'trial' returned no match.
Randy O'Neal Wynn, 54, died March 2, 2023 at Smith State Prison; death certificate says pending investigation Case detail
Randy O'Neal Wynn, 54, died March 2, 2023 at Smith State Prison; death certificate says pending investigation, per AJC's homicide list.
GBI arrests Warden Brian Dennis Adams on RICO charges Case detail
The GBI arrested Georgia Department of Corrections Warden Brian Dennis Adams, age 48, of Waycross, GA, and charged him with Conspiracy to Violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, Bribery, False Statements and a violation-of-oath charge.
Repeat violation: mildew, water damage, holes in floor at Smith SP kitchen Finding
An inspection of Smith State Prison found a repeat violation: damaged walls with mildew on walls, floors, and ceiling, particularly in the dishwasher room; food debris on floor; ceilings with water damage; holes in floor by cook station; roll-up door needs a new gasket.
2021 highest homicides at Smith; 2023 seven incarcerated and one CO killed Statistic
The DOJ's report on an investigation of Georgia prisons found that in 2021, the highest number of homicides at any one Georgia prison occurred at Smith State Prison, and that in 2023, seven incarcerated people and one corrections officer were killed in homicides at Smith State Prison.
8 homicides
Incarcerated man charged with directing two 2021 murders in local community Case detail
The DOJ's findings report states that the same incarcerated man who allegedly led the Smith State Prison drug smuggling conspiracy also has been charged with directing two 2021 murders in the local community: the death of an elderly citizen, Bobby Kicklighter, in his home in January 2021, in an apparently botched murder-for-hire intended to target a different person, and the death of a young woman, Jessica Gerling, a former GDC CO, in June 2021.
WTOC officer-death article lacks lockdown and visitation details Data gap
A search of the WTOC article 'Correctional officer dies after attack from inmate at Smith State Prison' for 'lockdown' and 'visitation' returned no match.
Shaquan Jahrel Boykins, 31, died May 11, 2023 at Smith State Prison of blunt impact injuries to head Case detail
Shaquan Jahrel Boykins, 31, died May 11, 2023 at Smith State Prison of blunt impact injuries to the head, per AJC's homicide list.
GBI investigation into Smith State Prison corruption Case detail
On May 31, 2022, the Georgia Attorney General's Office requested the GBI investigate corruption at Smith State Prison based on evidence discovered while conducting a murder investigation.
Smith SP described as overrun with pests, rodents, mold and mildew Finding
The Georgia Virtue described the Smith State Prison facility as seemingly overrun with pests, rodents, and filthy mold and mildew.
Anthony Zino found dead after five days in cell at Smith SP Case detail
Anthony Zino was found dead in his cell at Smith State Prison in April after being dead for five days before anyone noticed, during which guards in the unit were supposed to do counts multiple times each day while providing meals and medications through the flaps in the cell doors.
Contraband arrest: Elizabeth Soto admitted bringing prohibited items Case detail
On May 23 at Smith State Prison, Georgia Correctional Industries staff member Elizabeth Soto was arrested by GDC Office of Professional Standards and was transported to Tatnall County Sheriff's Office following an investigation, where she admitted to bringing prohibited items to an offender.
Drone observed exiting Smith State Prison, crashed at nearby residence Case detail
Smith State Prison Warden Beasley and Southeast Region Office of Professional Standards Agents were exiting the facility in the early hours of August 2nd when they observed a drone, and GDC Agents began monitoring the drone's flight pattern which led to a nearby residence, where they observed the drone crash into the roof.
Justin Tyler Smith, 37, died July 28, 2023 at Smith State Prison of epidural hematoma after being punched and falling Case detail
Justin Tyler Smith, 37, died July 28, 2023 at Smith State Prison of epidural hematoma and blunt force injury to the head; the medical examiner said he was punched and fell, striking his head, per AJC's homicide list.
Arrest in murder of former Smith SP corrections officer Jessica Gerling Case detail
The GBI arrested Dennis Kraft on January 12 for the murder of Jessica J. Gerling, a former corrections officer with the Georgia Department of Corrections, who was found shot to death in a Ludowici mobile home park on June 28, 2021.
May 2022 failed inspection: 8 violations, 6 repeat Statistic
A May 2022 failed health inspection of Smith State Prison reported eight violations, six of which were repeat violations, according to DPH.
8 violations vs. 6 repeat violations
Tattnall County EMS: 66 prisoners transported for assaults since February; 173 since 2020 Statistic
Since February of that year, Tattnall County EMS records showed EMS had been called to Smith State Prison in Glennville to transport 66 prisoners for assaults, mostly stabbings, and all told, the county's EMS personnel had been called to transport 173 prisoners for assaults since the beginning of 2020.
66 prisoners vs. 173 since 2020
Contraband seized in drone incident: 1508g marijuana, 10100g tobacco, 3 drones, 4 controllers, loaded handgun Statistic
Items seized in the Smith State Prison drone incident included 1508 grams of marijuana, 10,100 grams of tobacco, 3 drones, 4 drone controllers, and 1 loaded Taurus .357 magnum handgun.
1,508 grams marijuana
Quenton G. Mayo, 30, died Aug. 14, 2023 at Smith State Prison of stab wounds to neck; four prisoners involved Case detail
Quenton G. Mayo, 30, died Aug. 14, 2023 at Smith State Prison of stab wounds to the neck; incident report data shows four prisoners involved, per AJC's homicide list.
Security upgrades at Smith State Prison (FY2020) Policy
GDC's FY2020 annual fiscal report states that multiple GDC facilities installed upgraded security improvements to rear gates, new interior sally port gates, and fencing modifications, and that the state prisons to complete these upgrades in FY2020 included Smith State Prison.
12/7/2020 DPH report: severe rodent infestation in dry storage Finding
A Georgia Department of Public Health report on Smith State Prison dated 12/7/2020 found a severe rodent infestation in dry storage, mice droppings and bag damage in caged storage areas, and called for an exterminator; marked repeat violation.
Former officer Douglas Bare walked off job after nine years Finding
A former officer at Smith State Prison who walked off the job after nine years said he had grown weary of working in such a dangerous environment as well as being repeatedly pulled from his post to make hospital runs, and described the underlying problem as 'Chronic understaffing. There just weren't enough people to go around.'
Smith State Prison named in plan to improve high-security cell locks Policy
Georgia's state corrections department's plan to improve high-security cell locks, following reports of failing locks, named Smith State Prison among the facilities it planned to improve.
Donquerius Lamonte Mahone, 37, died Feb. 3, 2024 at Smith State Prison; listed as homicide with death certificate not in Case detail
Donquerius Lamonte Mahone, 37, died Feb. 3, 2024 at Smith State Prison; the AJC lists cause as homicide, with the death certificate not yet in, per AJC's homicide list.
Smith SP health scores fell from A range after Adams took over; failed May inspection Trend
Per Georgia Virtue reporting, dating back to 2017 Smith State Prison consistently hovered in the A score territory; within 30 days of Adams taking over the score dropped below an A and declined thereafter, and in May of that year the facility failed its health inspection.
Former officer quote: 'Chronic understaffing. There just weren't enough people to go around.' Finding
A former Smith State Prison officer described the underlying problem as 'Chronic understaffing. There just weren't enough people to go around.'
Smith State Prison listed as opened 1993, Tier I & II facility, host facility Finding
GDC's Close Security Facilities fact sheet lists Smith State Prison as opened in 1993, a Tier I & II facility, and host facility for Long Unit, Women's PDC and Smith TC.
Re-inspection still found no soap, uncovered food, running water, heavy rodent activity Finding
At the reinspection three days after Smith State Prison's failed health inspection, the facility still lacked soap for handwashing, foods were not covered and stored at correct temperatures, a water supply that could not be shut off was noted in the kitchen area, and heavy rodent activity was still present though fly and roach activity had declined.
Seven prisoner homicides at Smith SP in year covered by AJC, most of any GDC facility Statistic
Seven prisoners were victims of homicides at Smith State Prison in the year covered by the AJC's reporting, the most of any GDC facility that year.
7 homicides
Smith SP staffing: 44 officers for 1,400 men, authorized 162 Statistic
As of August, Smith State Prison had 44 correctional officers on staff to cover all shifts at a facility housing 1,400 men in 17 housing units, while the prison was supposed to have 162 officers according to its staffing records.
44 officers vs. 162 authorized officers
Smith SP: 1,396 inmates, 72.84% CO vacancy rate Statistic
Per an AJC data table of Georgia's worst-staffed prisons, Smith State Prison was listed as high security with 1,396 inmates and a correctional officer vacancy rate of 72.84%.
72.8%
Jacob Beasley became warden of Smith SP in February after Adams RICO charge Case detail
The AJC reported that Jacob Beasley became warden of Smith State Prison in February, after Brian Adams was charged with violating the state Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.
Commissioner Oliver: Smith SP reduced violence with population reduction and single-man cells Finding
Per The Georgia Virtue's coverage of the Senate study committee's final report, Commissioner Oliver said Smith State Prison saw reduced violence when they reduced the population and moved to single-man cells.
Commissioner Oliver: GDC aggressively recruiting officers for Smith SP Finding
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver said GDC was aggressively recruiting more officers to turn the tide and make staff members feel safer at Smith State Prison.
Oliver: fewer incidents at Smith SP since moving to single-occupancy cells Finding
At a Georgia Senate Department of Corrections Facilities Study Committee hearing, Commissioner Tyrone Oliver said that there's plenty of evidence that there are less violent conflicts amongst inmates who live in single-bed cells, and he referenced fewer incidents reported at Smith State Prison in Glennville since recently moving more of the population to single-occupancy cells.
Oliver quote: violence and homicides occurring in double-man cells Finding
Commissioner Oliver told the Georgia Senate committee, 'When you look at our violence and most of our homicides we have it is occurring in double-man cells.'
Sources
126 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Adalberto Sanchez
[person]
Aerial Murphy
[person]
Amerson v. Bland
[case]
Andrew Phillips
[person]
Anthony Joseph Zino III
[person]
Anthony Zino
[person]
Aramark
[organization]
Argueta v. Smith State Prison
[case]
Aureon Grace
[person]
Aureon Shavea Grace
[person]
Board of Corrections
[organization]
Bobby Kicklighter
[person]
Brian Adams
[person]
Brian Dennis Adams
[person]
Brian Kemp
[person]
Brianna Edwards
[person]
Cadarius Carter
[person]
Calvin Darrell Denson Jr.
[person]
Calvin Denson
[person]
Cameron Keener
[person]
Charles Mims
[person]
Cheikh Hassane Toure
[person]
Chris Carr
[person]
Christopher Michael Redwine
[person]
Christopher Ray Reynolds
[person]
Christopher Sumlin
[person]
Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 973
[legislation]
Daniel v. Kilpatrick
[case]
Dannaye Walker
[person]
Darla P. OConnor
[person]
Deldrick Jones
[person]
Dennis Kraft
[person]
Derrick Dionte Deshun Harvey
[person]
Deshonda Hagins
[person]
Desmond Hill
[person]
Diversified Correctional Services LLC
[organization]
DOJ
[organization]
DOJ Civil Rights Division
[organization]
Donneta Thompkins
[person]
Donquerius Lamonte Mahone
[person]
Donquerius Mahone
[person]
Douglas Bare
[person]
Douglas Williams
[person]
Elizabeth Soto
[person]
Enio Humberto Argueta
[person]
Eric Cox
[person]
Fire Station #20
[program]
Flournoy v. Smith State Prison
[case]
GDC
[organization]
GDC Office of Professional Standards
[organization]
George Lo
[person]
Georgia Attorney General's Office
[organization]
Georgia Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Georgia Court of Appeals
[organization]
Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Department of Public Health
[organization]
Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison
[facility]
Georgia General Assembly
[organization]
Georgia Procurement Registry
[organization]
Georgia Senate Department of Corrections Facilities Study Committee
[organization]
Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission
[organization]
Gineli Gray
[person]
Glennville Police Department
[organization]
Gregory C. Dozier
[person]
Guidehouse Inc.
[organization]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
Heath v. Adams
[case]
Hiwatha Abdulcah Hakeem Jr.
[person]
Ireon Moore
[person]
Jackson v. Catanzariti
[case]
Jacob Beasley
[person]
James Adams Jr.
[person]
Jamie Leigh Dean
[person]
Jarvis Stallworth
[person]
Jaydrekus Hart
[person]
Jerry Lee Davis
[person]
Jessica Gerling
[person]
Jessica J. Gerling
[person]
John Bretleir Reyes Cardona
[person]
Jones
[person]
Joseph Catanzariti
[person]
Joseph Durant
[person]
Julia Roberts
[person]
Justin Nathaniel Wilkerson
[person]
Justin Tyler Smith
[person]
Katherine Brown
[person]
Keisha Janae Jones
[person]
Keisha Jones
[person]
Kelvin Rogers
[person]
Kelvin Stevenson
[person]
Kenneth Alberta
[person]
Kicklighter v. Adams
[case]
Kraft
[person]
Kristen Pearson
[person]
Lakitha Burdon
[person]
Lavon Morris
[person]
Layton Lester
[person]
Long State Prison
[facility]
Long Unit
[facility]
Lynn v. Ward
[case]
Mable P. Wheeler
[person]
Macon State Prison
[facility]
Mario Williams
[person]
Marko Willingham
[person]
Miguel Jackson
[person]
Moses Leroy Echols
[person]
Nathan Michael Mahan
[person]
Nathan Weekes
[person]
Nicholas Lo
[person]
Nicholas Shafer
[person]
Operation Ghost Guard
[operation]
Operation Night Drop
[operation]
Operation Skyhawk
[operation]
Orlando Jordan
[person]
Quenton G. Mayo
[person]
Randy O'Neal Wynn
[person]
Ricari Reid
[person]
Robert Clark
[person]
Robert Danford Clark
[person]
Robert Harris
[person]
Robert Lanier
[person]
Ronald Hallman
[person]
Sailem Ayana
[person]
Sameerah Adams
[person]
Sanchez v. Smith State Prison
[case]
Shacoby Seay
[person]
Shaniya Odom
[person]
Shannan Isaac
[person]
Shaquan Jahrel Boykins
[person]
Smith State Prison
[facility]
Smith Transitional Center
[facility]
Stephens v. Smith State Prison
[case]
Tarmarshe Smith
[person]
Tattnall County Coroner
[organization]
Tattnall County EMS
[organization]
Tattnall County Grand Jury
[organization]
Tattnall County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Taylor Harrison Brooks
[person]
Terence Kilpatrick
[person]
Terrance Beasley
[person]
Thomas Cothran
[person]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Department of Justice
[organization]
USA v. Hall
[case]
USA v. Hall, et al.
[case]
USA v. Harris
[case]
USA v. Harris, et al.
[case]
Vashti Brown
[person]
Warden Beasley
[person]
Weekes
[person]
Wilcox State Prison
[facility]
Willesha Warren
[person]
Women's Probation Detention Center
[facility]
Yolanda Byrd
[person]
YSL Squad
[operation]
Yves Saint Laurent Squad
[operation]