Prison facilities
The Emanuel Unit and GDC's Emanuel County facilities
GDC records and public sources on the Emanuel Unit and its other Emanuel County facilities.
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.
Facility Conditions & Infrastructure
Georgia's prison system is a physically failing estate: buildings averaging more than 30 years old, a maintenance record in which the state's own auditors found that funding availability — not need — drove repairs, and a documented pattern of doors that do not lock, plumbing that does not carry waste, and housing that does not cool. Two state-commissioned studies and a federal civil rights investigation agree on the diagnosis. They disagree sharply on how overcrowded the system actually is, because Georgia publishes at least four different capacity figures for the same prison. This page sets out what the record shows about the physical plant, what the state has committed to spend on it, and what remains undocumented.
12,892 data points
Healthcare & Medical Neglect
Georgia's prison health care has been litigated, contracted out, audited and re-litigated for fifty years, and in October 2024 the U.S. Department of Justice still described it as "abhorrent," "life-threatening" and unconstitutional — with 10-month waits to see a psychiatrist and roughly a tenth of people with hepatitis C or HIV receiving treatment. This page traces the record: the constitutional floor, the vendors who hold the contracts and what they cost, the deaths and settlements behind the legal claims, the mental-health system Georgia runs in place of a hospital system, the food that undernourishment research suggests is killing people under a cause code the state never writes, and the 1,928 deaths GPS has recorded in custody since January 1, 2020.
5,401 data points
Oversight & Accountability
Georgia runs one of the nation's largest prison systems with no independent body empowered to inspect it, no ombudsman outside the Department of Corrections, and no public reporting requirement attached to the $600 million it has been voted for prison spending. A six-year federal civil rights investigation found constitutional violations across the system in October 2024 and recommended 82 remedial measures; more than 230 days after its 49-day litigation deadline expired, no one had been arrested, fired, or sued as a result. What remains is a closed loop in which the department investigates its own deaths, codes its own mortality data, disciplines — or does not discipline — its own staff, and classifies its investigative files as confidential state secrets.
20,251 data points
Staffing Crisis
Georgia's prison system has run correctional officer vacancy rates between roughly 28 percent and 60 percent since 2020, and its own annual fiscal reports still showed 47.24 percent unfilled in fiscal year 2025. The consequences are documented at the shift level — two officers covering an entire prison compound, seven officers supervising 1,013 people, housing units with nobody watching — and the department's evidence of progress is contested by four different turnover figures that measure four different things.
10,698 data points
Violence & Safety
Georgia's prison system kills people at a rate that federal investigators found unconstitutional, and then undercounts the dead. A 93-page Department of Justice findings report released October 1, 2024 concluded that the State of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Corrections violate the Eighth Amendment by failing to protect incarcerated people from violence and sexual abuse, describing 'near-constant life-threatening violence as the norm.' The documented record — 142 homicides reported from 2018 through 2023, more than 1,400 violent incidents in a 16-month window, 456 sexual abuse allegations in a single year with 35 substantiated — rests on the Department's own numbers, which the Department itself misreports.
12,020 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 October 17, Emanuel Women's Facility hosted a Braille Open House and graduation ceremony, recognizing nine female offenders as the first in Georgia to complete the Library of Congress Braille Transcribers Certification course.
The finding
GDC's All Active Inmates statistical profile for October 2025 lists only 'Emanuel Womens Facility' with 417 inmates in the state prisons institution-type table, with no separate 'Emanuel Unit' row.
The finding
GDC's All Active Inmates statistical profile for November 2025 lists 'Emanuel Unit' with 41 inmates and separately 'Emanuel Womens Facility' with 412 inmates.
The finding
A PREA audit states that at the time of the on-site audit, the facility does not have any male officers.
The finding
GDC's PREA Facility Audit Report (Cycle 4) for Emanuel Probation Detention Center gives designed facility capacity as 369, current population as 144, and average daily population for the past 12 months as 157.
The finding
The PREA audit of Emanuel Probation Detention Center states the Warden interviewed is the warden over both the Emanuel Women's Facility and the Emanuel Probation Detention Center, and that the Assistant Superintendent runs the Emanuel Probation Detention Center on a day-to-day basis.
The finding
GDC's location page and Probation Detention Centers fact sheet list Emanuel Detention Center capacity as 369, while the Cycle 5 PREA audit lists designed facility capacity as 324, indicating inconsistent capacity reporting across GDC sources.
All Data Points
148 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Jessie Williams promoted to Warden at Emanuel Women's Facility Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Jessie Williams to Warden at Emanuel Women's Facility effective March 1, 2023.
Stephanie Mainer promoted to Assistant Superintendent at Emanuel PDC Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Stephanie Mainer, Administrative Assistant to the Southeast Regional Director, to Assistant Superintendent at Emanuel Probation Detention Center (PDC), effective April 1, 2026.
Special Management Unit male releases FY2026 Statistic
GDC's Profile of Inmate Releases FY2026 lists 'Special Management Unit' under Institution Type - State Prisons with 13 male releases during FY2026 (0.19% column share, 100.0% row share, 0.16% of total).
13 male releases
Emanuel Detention Center stated capacity 369 Statistic
GDC's Emanuel Detention Center locations page states the facility's capacity is 369.
369 beds
Emanuel Probation Detention Center Superintendent: Katherine Wells Finding
GDC's facility directory list (updated 7/16/2026) shows Emanuel Probation Detention Center's Superintendent as Katherine Wells and Asst. Superintendent as Stephanie Mainer.
Emanuel Women's Facility staff and population under Warden Williams Statistic
As Warden, Jessie Williams was responsible for overseeing 122 staff at Emanuel Women's Facility and approximately 415 female offenders.
122 staff vs. 415 female offenders
Thomas Paul reassigned to Superintendent at Emanuel PDC Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the reassignment of Thomas Paul to Superintendent at Emanuel Probation Detention Center effective January 1, 2021.
ModCorr modular housing installed at four state prisons Policy
GDC announced installation of ModCorr MaxMod modular housing units at Dodge State Prison, Lee State Prison, Montgomery State Prison, and Hays State Prison.
Emanuel Detention Center constructed 1991, opened 1994, renovated 2007 Finding
GDC's locations page states the facility was constructed in 1991, opened in 1994, and renovated in 2007.
Phone (478) 988-7024 assigned by GDC to McEver Probation Detention Center, Perry Finding
GDC's own Facility Directory List shows the phone number (478) 988-7024 belongs to McEver Probation Detention Center at 2100 Kings Chapel Road, Perry, GA (Houston County), not to any Emanuel facility. This conflicts with JPay's listing of the same number for an 'Emanuel Unit' at 121 Casa Drive, Twin City.
Braille program at EWF transcribes textbooks for K-12 students Policy
A GDC press release states the Braille program teaches offenders skills necessary to transcribe textbooks for visually impaired students in grades K-12 across the United States.
Thomas Paul career timeline at Emanuel PDC Case detail
Thomas Paul began his career with GDC in 1997 as a Correctional Officer at Emanuel PDC, was promoted to Assistant Superintendent in 2016, and in 2019 was promoted to Superintendent.
20-bed Medical Intensive Infirmary at Johnson State Prison Policy
GDC installed a new 20-bed Medical Intensive Infirmary (MII) unit at Johnson State Prison, supported by correctional healthcare partner Centurion.
Emanuel Detention Center security level medium Finding
GDC's locations page lists the security level as Medium.
Emanuel Probation Detention Center address: 121 Casa Dr, Twin City, GA 30471 Finding
GDC's Facility Directory List gives Emanuel Probation Detention Center's address as 121 Casa Dr, Twin City, GA 30471, Emanuel County, with phone (478) 763-2400 and fax (478) 763-3686.
EWF Braille coursework includes multiple certification areas Policy
A GDC press release states offenders at Emanuel Women's Facility completed coursework through the Library of Congress Braille Transcribers Certification program, which includes Literary Braille, Nemeth Code-Mathematical, Music, Tactile-Graphics, Literary Proofreading, and Nemeth Proofreading.
Jennifer Clark promoted from Emanuel PDC to Private Prison Monitor at Wheeler CF Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Jennifer Clark from Emanuel PDC to Private Prison Monitor at Wheeler Correctional Facility, effective December 16, 2020.
ModCorr project adds 524 beds Statistic
The ModCorr modular housing and infirmary project added 524 beds in total across the affected facilities.
524 beds
Emanuel Detention Center mission: sanctioning option for probationers Policy
GDC's locations page states the mission is to provide a sanctioning option for probationers who require more security or supervision than regular community supervision, with highly structured regimented schedules including supervised unpaid work in surrounding communities.
Emanuel Women's Facility listed at 714 Gumlog Road, Swainsboro, Warden Jessie Williams Finding
GDC's Facility Operations directory (updated 7/16/2026) lists 'EMANUEL WOMEN'S FACILITY' at 714 Gumlog Road, Swainsboro, GA 30401, Emanuel County, phone (478) 289-2748, fax (478) 289-2755, with Warden Jessie Williams.
Nine EWF offenders first in Georgia to complete Braille certification Case detail
On October 17, Emanuel Women's Facility hosted a Braille Open House and graduation ceremony, recognizing nine female offenders as the first in Georgia to complete the Library of Congress Braille Transcribers Certification course.
FY25 GDC annual report facility list omits separate Emanuel Unit men's facility Finding
GDC's Fiscal Year annual report lists facilities using NoteActive prior to FY25 including 'The Special Management Unit,' 'Long Unit,' and 'Emanuel WF,' with no separate 'Emanuel Unit' men's facility named in that list.
Source
Board minutes: construction projects update September 2025 Policy
GDC Board of Corrections minutes record Mr. Watson discussing construction projects at Smith Transitional Center and Washington State Prison, a new State Prison (estimated construction start Summer 2026), ModCorr Units, and the Medically Intensive Infirmary (MII Unit).
Emanuel Detention Center on 32 acres in Emanuel County Finding
GDC's locations page states the facility sits on 32 acres in Emanuel County and was one of the first detention centers completely constructed with offender labor.
GED tests administered monthly at EWF by Southeastern Technical College Policy
A GDC press release states the GED tests are administered at Emanuel WF on a monthly basis by Southeastern Technical College.
Emanuel PDC incident reduction FY24 to FY25: 29.55% Statistic
A table in GDC's annual report, under the heading 'FACILITY' / 'FY24 TO FY25 REDUCTION' within its Incident Reduction section, lists Emanuel Probation Detention Center at 29.55%.
29.6%
Source
Board minutes: Hays State Prison Modcorr infrastructure improvements Policy
GDC Board of Corrections December 2025 minutes state GDC is undertaking infrastructure improvements at Hays State Prison as part of the Modcorr project, including installation of modular units and supporting systems.
Emanuel Probation Detention Center received first detainees October 18, 1994 Finding
GDC's locations page states Emanuel Probation Detention Center received its first detainees on October 18, 1994.
Emanuel Women's Facility located in Swainsboro, GA 30401 Finding
GDC's facility page lists Swainsboro, GA 30401 as the location of Emanuel Women's Facility.
34 EWF offenders earned GED as of July 1, 2016 Statistic
A GDC press release states that as of July 1, 2016, 34 offenders at Emanuel WF have earned a GED, and a total of 1,059 offenders have earned a GED statewide.
34 offenders vs. 1,059 statewide GED earners
Emanuel Women's Facility incident reduction FY24 to FY25: 28.21% Statistic
GDC's FY2025 Annual Report lists, under the section heading 'INCIDENT REDUCTION' and the table columns 'FACILITY' / 'FY24 TO FY25 REDUCTION,' the row 'Emanuel Women's Facility 28.21%.'
28.2%
Source
Emanuel Women's Facility capacity 415 (current fact sheet) Statistic
GDC's current 'Female Offenders and Facilities' fact sheet states Emanuel Women's Facility opened in 1996 and was renovated in 2011, is a medium-security facility with a population capacity of 415, and is the host facility for Emanuel Probation Detention Center.
415 population capacity
Emanuel Detention Center housing: six open dormitories Finding
GDC's locations page states housing consists of six open dormitories with double and triple bunk beds.
Emanuel Women's Facility street address: 714 Gumlog Road Finding
GDC's facility page lists the street address of Emanuel Women's Facility as 714 Gumlog Road.
13 offenders received GED at EWF on December 16, 2016 Case detail
A GDC press release states that on December 16, 13 offenders received their General Education Diploma (GED) at Emanuel Women's Facility (WF) in Swainsboro, GA.
GDC FY25 facility composition: 7 Probation Detention Centers Statistic
GDC's FY2025 Annual Report states that during FY25, GDC facilities included 35 State Prisons, 12 Transitional Centers, 7 Probation Detention Centers, 12 Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Centers, 2 Integrated Treatment Facilities, 21 County Correctional Institutions, and 4 Private Correctional Facilities.
7 probation detention centers
Source
Emanuel Detention Center address 121 Casa Drive, Twin City Finding
GDC's locations page lists the address as 121 Casa Drive, Twin City, GA 30471.
Emanuel Women's Facility classified as a State Prison Finding
GDC's facility page describes Emanuel Women's Facility as a State Prison.
October 2025 GDC profile lists only Emanuel Womens Facility with 417 inmates Statistic
GDC's All Active Inmates statistical profile for October 2025 lists only 'Emanuel Womens Facility' with 417 inmates in the state prisons institution-type table, with no separate 'Emanuel Unit' row.
417 inmates
Emanuel Unit male population January 2026: 71 Statistic
GDC's Inmate Statistical Profile lists 'Emanuel Unit' under Institution Type - State Prisons with a male count of 71 (0.21% of the male column, 100.0% row), totaling 71 (0.19% of the total column).
71 inmates
Emanuel Detention Center serves adult male felons Finding
GDC's locations page describes the facility type as Probation Detention Center serving Adult Male Felons and Medium Security.
Emanuel Women's Facility constructed 1995 Statistic
GDC's facility page states CONSTRUCTED: 1995 for Emanuel Women's Facility.
1,995 year
November 2025 GDC profile lists Emanuel Unit with 41 inmates and EWF with 412 Statistic
GDC's All Active Inmates statistical profile for November 2025 lists 'Emanuel Unit' with 41 inmates and separately 'Emanuel Womens Facility' with 412 inmates.
41 inmates vs. 412 EWF inmates
Statewide Probation Detention Center male population January 2026: 126 Statistic
GDC's Inmate Statistical Profile lists statewide 'Probation Detention Center' institution type with a male count of 126 (0.26% of the male column, 100.0% row), totaling 126 (0.24% of the total column), with no female count shown.
126 inmates
Emanuel Detention Center academic programs Policy
GDC's locations page lists academic programs including General Education Diploma and Adult Basic Education.
Emanuel Women's Facility capacity: 415 Statistic
GDC's facility page states CAPACITY: 415 for Emanuel Women's Facility.
415 people
Meosha McMillan listed as Warden of Emanuel Women Facility in April 2019 Board minutes Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes list Meosha McMillan, Warden, Emanuel Women Facility among attendees.
Emanuel Unit male population August 2026: 74 Statistic
GDC's Inmate Statistical Profile lists 'Emanuel Unit' under Institution Type - State Prisons with a male count of 74 (0.22% of the male column, 100.0% row), totaling 74 (0.2% of the total column).
74 inmates
Escape from Emanuel Probation Detention Center, recaptured in Richmond County Case detail
After escaping the Emanuel Probation Detention Center in Twin City, an escapee (Wright) made it to Candler County, stole a vehicle, then traveled to Richmond County where a deputy attempted to stop him.
Emanuel Detention Center counseling programs Policy
GDC's locations page lists counseling programs including Re-entry, Motivation For Change, Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous, and Active Parenting.
Emanuel Women's Facility opened 2004 Statistic
GDC's facility page states OPENED: 2004 for Emanuel Women's Facility.
2,004 year
Warden McMillan presented Female Braille Program overview at April 2019 Board meeting Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes state Meosha McMillan, Warden of Emanuel Women's Facility, would present a Female Braille Program overview.
Statewide Probation Detention Center population August 2026: 101 (86 male, 15 female) Statistic
GDC's Inmate Statistical Profile lists statewide 'Probation Detention Center' institution type with a male count of 86 (0.18% of the male column, 85.15% row) and a female count of 15 (0.38% of the female column, 14.85% row), totaling 101 (0.19% of the total column).
101 inmates
JPay listing: Emanuel Probation Detention address matches Emanuel Unit Finding
JPay's separate facility page for 'Emanuel Probation Detention' lists the physical address as 121 Casa Drive, Twin City, GA 30471 and phone (478) 988-7024, identical to JPay's listing for 'Emanuel Unit.'
Emanuel Detention Center manages 8-acre vegetable garden with three greenhouses Finding
GDC's locations page states Emanuel Probation Detention Center manages an 8-acre vegetable garden with three greenhouses as part of outside work details.
Emanuel Women's Facility renovated 2011 Statistic
GDC's facility page states RENOVATED: 2011 for Emanuel Women's Facility.
2,011 year
Warden McMillan discussed Georgia Tech Research Corporation partnership Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes state Warden McMillan began by discussing the partnership between Georgia Tech Research Corporation and the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Jessie Williams listed as Warden of Emanuel Women's Facility Case detail
GDC's Facility Operations directory (updated 7/16/2026) lists Jessie Williams as Warden of Emanuel Women's Facility.
Probation detention center sentences normally six months or less Finding
Emanuel County Sheriff Jeffrey Brewer said normally the sentence at a probation detention center is not more than six months, making escapes rare.
No separate men's Emanuel Unit mentioned on GDC location page Data gap
GDC's locations page for Emanuel Detention Center describes housing as six open dormitories with double and triple bunk beds and security level MEDIUM, with no mention of a separate men's 'Emanuel Unit.'
Emanuel Women's Facility serves Adult Female Felons Finding
GDC's facility page states Emanuel Women's Facility serves Adult Female Felons.
September 2022 Board minutes mention EWF female Braille success story Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes mention the Emanuel Women's Facility female Braille success story among communications highlights.
Gwendolyn Green listed as Deputy Warden Security at Emanuel Women's Facility Case detail
GDC's Facility Operations directory lists Gwendolyn Green as Deputy Warden Security at Emanuel Women's Facility.
No 'Emanuel Unit' in GDC facility directory or board minutes Data gap
Targeted searches of GDC facility directories (July 2025, November 2025, July 2026), multiple Board of Corrections meeting minutes (2025-2026), and GDC location pages for 'Emanuel Unit' and 'Emanuel Mens' returned no matches, indicating the 'Emanuel Unit' designation is not an official GDC facility name in these records.
Governor's Budget Report capital project: purchase warden house at Emanuel Women's Facility for $285,000 Statistic
The Governor's Budget Report for Amended FY2026 and FY2027 includes a capital project to purchase a warden house at Emanuel Women's Facility, Swainsboro, Emanuel County, for $285,000 under the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission Capital Projects Fund.
$285,000 USD
Emanuel Women's Facility primary phone: (478) 289-2748 Finding
Emanuel Women's Facility's primary phone number is (478) 289-2748, per GDC's facility page.
Whitney East-Hendrix promoted to Deputy Warden of Care & Treatment at EWF Case detail
GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the promotion of Whitney East-Hendrix from Chief Counselor at Montgomery State Prison to Deputy Warden of Care & Treatment at Emanuel Women's Facility effective September 16, 2015.
Katherine Wells listed as Superintendent of Emanuel PDC Case detail
GDC's Facility Operations directory lists Katherine Wells as Superintendent of Emanuel Probation Detention Center.
HB 973 conference substitute: $285,000 for warden house at Emanuel Women's Facility Legal fact
The Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 973 includes budget item 371.13 increasing funds for one-time funding to purchase a warden house at Emanuel Women's facility, Swainsboro, Emanuel County, with State General Funds of $285,000.
GDC locations page for Emanuel Women's Facility omits any separate men's 'Emanuel Unit' Finding
GDC's locations page for Emanuel Women's Facility lists it as CONSTRUCTED 1995, CAPACITY 415, OPENED 2004, RENOVATED 2011, with no mention of a separate men's 'Emanuel Unit' on that page.
Barbara Cumming promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at EWF Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Barbara Cumming to deputy warden of security at Emanuel Women's Facility (WF) effective October 1, 2021.
Bridgette Cunningham listed as Chief of Security at Emanuel PDC Case detail
GDC's Facility Operations directory lists Bridgette Cunningham as Chief of Security at Emanuel Probation Detention Center.
HB 973 conference substitute: $125,000,000 for modular unit and two transition centers Legal fact
The Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 973 redirects $25,000,000 in existing funds for prison design (HB67, 2025 Session) and increases funds to construct one new modular correctional unit and two transition centers to expand bed capacity, with total State General Funds of $125,000,000.
PREA Cycle 5: Emanuel Women's Facility current population 413 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 5) lists the current population of the facility as 413.
413 people vs. 415 designed facility capacity
PREA Cycle 5: designed facility capacity 415 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 5) lists the designed facility capacity as 415.
415 people
Amended FY2026 House budget proposes $220M for 480-bed private prison Finding
The House's Amended Fiscal Year 2026 budget recommends using $220 million of the state's undesignated surplus to fund design and construction of a new 480-bed single-celled private prison facility for low- to medium-security inmates to free up bedspace within state prisons.
Proposed $220M private prison / $180M modular units not adopted Legal fact
A proposed appropriations line item to utilize $220,000,000 of undesignated state surplus funds to construct a new 480-bed private prison facility (with a Senate alternative to instead use $180,000,000 to construct two new modular correctional units) was not adopted by the conference committee (CC:NO).
PREA Cycle 5: no male officers at time of on-site audit Finding
A PREA audit states that at the time of the on-site audit, the facility does not have any male officers.
Georgia prison population projected over 55,000 by 2029 Trend
The House Budget and Research Office states the state prison population is projected to be over 55,000 by 2029.
PREA Cycle 4: Emanuel PDC designed capacity 369, current population 144, ADP 157 Statistic
GDC's PREA Facility Audit Report (Cycle 4) for Emanuel Probation Detention Center gives designed facility capacity as 369, current population as 144, and average daily population for the past 12 months as 157.
369 beds vs. 144 current population
PREA Cycle 5: six housing units Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 5) lists the number of inmate/resident/detainee housing units as 6.
6 housing units
FY2026 Governor's Budget: $93,203,352 for four 126-bed modular correctional units Finding
Georgia's original FY2026 Governor's Budget Report includes $93,203,352 to provide funds for sitework and construction of four 126-bed modular correctional units to facilitate offender population movement necessary for capital and security improvements.
PREA Cycle 4: Warden Kochelle Watson Finding
GDC's PREA Facility Audit Report (Cycle 4) for Emanuel Probation Detention Center lists the Warden/Jail Administrator/Sheriff/Director as Kochelle Watson.
PREA Cycle 5: 396 inmates on first day of onsite audit Statistic
A PREA audit records the total number of inmates in Emanuel Women's Facility as of the first day of the onsite audit as 396.
396 people
Amended FY2026 conference committee: $150M for one modular unit and two transition centers Finding
The House Budget and Research Office's final conference committee highlights for HB 973 (Amended FY2026) state the budget includes $150 million to construct one new modular unit and two new transition centers to expand bed capacity, citing a need for additional prison bed capacity from a growing inmate population and aging facilities.
Katherine Wells promoted to Superintendent effective September 16, 2025 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Katherine Wells, Deputy Warden at Hancock State Prison, to Superintendent at Emanuel Probation Detention Center, effective September 16, 2025, responsible for overseeing all staff and supervising male offenders.
PREA Cycle 5: average daily inmate population 414 Statistic
A PREA audit states the average daily number of inmates at Emanuel Women's Facility is 414.
414 people
EWF PREA audit Cycle 2 security levels Minimum and Medium Policy
EWF PREA audit listed facility security levels/inmate custody levels as Minimum and Medium.
FY2027 Senate budget: $1,760,207 for operations at five modular correctional units Finding
The Senate Appropriations Committee's substitute FY2027 budget bill includes a line item to increase funds for operations at five modular correctional units, totaling $1,760,207.
Board minutes: GDC intends to acquire 0.55 acre at 316 Watson St for $260,000 as Warden's Residence Case detail
Georgia Board of Corrections minutes state Donna Barwick holds title to 0.55 acre at 316 Watson St, Swainsboro, Emanuel County, and GDC intends to use the property as the Warden's Residence for Emanuel Women's Facility, with a proposed consideration of $260,000.00.
PREA Cycle 5: custody levels Minimum and Medium Finding
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 5) lists the facility's security levels/inmate custody levels as Minimum and Medium.
EWF PREA audit Cycle 2 designed capacity 415 Statistic
An EWF PREA audit recorded a designed facility capacity of 415.
415 beds
FY2027 Senate budget: $364,749 for food services at four modular correctional units Finding
The Senate Appropriations Committee's substitute FY2027 budget bill includes a separate line item to increase funds for food services at four modular correctional units, totaling $364,749.
PREA Cycle 5: designed capacity 324, current population 212, ADP 202 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Probation Detention Center (Cycle 5) lists a designed facility capacity of 324, current population of 212, and average daily population for the past 12 months of 202.
324 beds vs. 212 current population
PREA Cycle 5: facility houses only female inmates Finding
A PREA audit narrative states that the facility only houses female inmates.
EWF PREA audit Cycle 2 current population 394 Statistic
An EWF PREA audit recorded a current population of facility of 394.
394 inmates
FY2027 conference committee: $1,760,207 for operations at five modular correctional units Finding
A conference committee substitute appropriations bill provides funds for operations at five modular correctional units, totaling $1,760,207.
Source
PREA Cycle 5: 8 housing units Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Probation Detention Center states there are 8 inmate/resident/detainee housing units.
8 housing units
PREA Cycle 4: designed facility capacity 415 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 4) lists the designed facility capacity as 415.
415 people
EWF PREA audit Cycle 2 CEO Warden Meosha McMillan Case detail
An EWF PREA audit named the facility's Chief Executive Officer as Warden Meosha McMillan.
Braille program expanded to Emanuel Women's Facility July 2018 Policy
GDC's Braille program expanded to include Emanuel Women's Facility as of July 2018, and inmates who successfully complete the Braille program are certified National Braille Transcribers through the Library of Congress.
PREA Cycle 5: facility not over capacity in past 12 months Finding
A PREA audit of Emanuel Probation Detention Center states the facility had not been over capacity at any point in the past twelve months.
PREA Cycle 4: current population 409 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 4) lists the current population of the facility as 409.
409 people vs. 415 designed facility capacity
Emanuel Women's Facility listed as GDC Canine Program location Policy
A GDC report's list of GDC Canine Program Locations includes Emanuel Women's Facility alongside Augusta State Medical Prison, Burruss Correctional Training Center, Colwell Probation Detention Center and Johnson State Prison.
PREA Cycle 5: population designation Men/boys, age range 18-99, custody Probationer Finding
The PREA audit of Emanuel Probation Detention Center lists population designation as Men/boys, age range 18-99, and facility security levels/inmate custody levels as Probationer.
PREA Cycle 4: average daily population past 12 months 362 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 4) lists the average daily population for the past 12 months as 362.
362 people
Emanuel Unit CY2025 admissions: 34 Statistic
GDC's 'Profile of Inmate Admissions' report for the most recent calendar year lists 'Emanuel Unit' as a separate facility with 34 admissions (0.45% of that admission type, 0.37% of the total).
34 admissions
PREA Cycle 5: Warden oversees both Emanuel Women's Facility and Emanuel PDC Finding
The PREA audit of Emanuel Probation Detention Center states the Warden interviewed is the warden over both the Emanuel Women's Facility and the Emanuel Probation Detention Center, and that the Assistant Superintendent runs the Emanuel Probation Detention Center on a day-to-day basis.
PREA Cycle 4: population held is Females Finding
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 4) states the population held is Females.
Long Unit CY2025 admissions: 86 Statistic
In GDC's Profile of Inmate Admissions CY2025 table of Institution Type - State Prisons, Long Unit is listed with 86 male admissions during CY2025.
86 admissions
Probation Detention Centers fact sheet: Emanuel PDC host facility Emanuel Women's Facility, capacity 369, opened Oct. 18, 1994 Finding
GDC's Probation Detention Centers fact sheet lists Emanuel Probation Detention Center's host facility as Emanuel Women's Facility in Swainsboro, with a capacity of 369, opened Oct. 18, 1994.
PREA Cycle 4: age range of population 21-63 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 4) states the age range of population is 21-63.
21 years (minimum age; range 21-63) vs. 63 maximum age
Emanuel Unit FY2026 releases: 17 Statistic
GDC's 'Profile of Inmate Releases' report for the most recent fiscal year lists 'Emanuel Unit' as a separate facility with 17 releases (0.25% of that release type, 0.22% of the total).
17 releases
Capacity discrepancy between GDC location page (369) and PREA Cycle 5 (324) Data gap
GDC's location page and Probation Detention Centers fact sheet list Emanuel Detention Center capacity as 369, while the Cycle 5 PREA audit lists designed facility capacity as 324, indicating inconsistent capacity reporting across GDC sources.
PREA Cycle 4: facility houses female inmates and does not employ male staff Finding
A PREA audit states this facility houses female inmates and does not employ male staff.
PDC PREA audit Cycle 2 designed capacity 369 Statistic
A PDC PREA audit recorded a designed facility capacity of 369 again.
369 beds
PREA Cycle 4: two housing units Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 4) lists the number of inmate/resident/detainee housing units as 2.
2 housing units
PDC PREA audit Cycle 2 current population 294 Statistic
A PDC PREA audit recorded a current population of facility of 294.
294 inmates
PREA Cycle 3: current population 406 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 3) lists the current population of the facility as 406.
406 people
PDC PREA audit Cycle 2 security levels 1-4 Policy
A PDC PREA audit listed facility security levels/inmate custody levels as 1-4.
PREA Cycle 3: houses adult female offenders at minimum and medium custody Finding
A PREA audit narrative states the Emanuel Women's Facility currently houses adult female offenders of minimum and medium custody levels.
PDC PREA audit Cycle 2 CEO Superintendent Jeff Coleman Case detail
A PDC PREA audit named the facility's Chief Executive Officer as Superintendent Jeff Coleman.
PREA Cycle 3: age range of population 20-65 Statistic
A PREA audit of Emanuel Women's Facility (audit cycle 3) states the age range of population is 20-65.
20 years (minimum age; range 20-65) vs. 65 maximum age
PDC PREA audit Cycle 3 current population 318 Statistic
A PDC PREA audit recorded a current population of facility of 318.
318 inmates
PREA Cycle 3: all-female staff; no cross-gender strip or body cavity searches Finding
A PREA audit states EWF has an all-female staff, and while male staff from Central Office or other facilities may visit EWF, there have been no instances of cross-gender strip searches or body cavity searches.
PDC PREA audit Cycle 3 age range 18-72 Statistic
A PDC PREA audit recorded an age range of population of 18-72.
PREA Cycle 3: secure perimeter; official capacity 415 Statistic
A PREA audit states EWF is located within a secure perimeter and the facility has the official capacity to house 415 offenders.
415 people
PDC PREA audit Cycle 3 security levels Probationers/Parolees Policy
A PDC PREA audit listed facility security levels/inmate custody levels as Probationers/Parolees.
PREA Cycle 3: seven open bay/dorm style housing units Statistic
A PREA audit states EWF has seven open bay/dorm style housing units.
7 housing units
PDC PREA audit Cycle 3 Superintendent Jennifer Clark greeted auditor Case detail
A PDC PREA audit stated the Auditor was greeted by Superintendent (PREA Compliance Manager) Jennifer Clark.
PREA Cycle 3: seven segregation cells Statistic
A PREA audit states EWF has seven (7) segregation cells.
7 segregation cells
Whitney Williamson listed as Asst. Superintendent, Emanuel PDC in March 2025 Board minutes Case detail
The Board of Corrections minutes list 'Ms. Whitney Williamson, Asst. Superintendent, Emanuel PDC' among attendees, referring to the existing Emanuel Probation Detention Center, not a new men's 'Emanuel Unit'.
PREA Cycle 3: educational buildings house GED programs Finding
A PREA audit describes an educational building design which serves as locations for EWF's GED programs.
June 2026 GDC profile lists Emanuel Unit with 82 inmates Statistic
GDC's June 2026 Inmate Statistical Profile lists 'Emanuel Unit' with 82 inmates, immediately alphabetically between Dooly State Prison and Emanuel Womens Facility, in the state-prisons institution table.
82 inmates
PREA Cycle 3: braille program at EWF Finding
A PREA audit refers to EWF's braille program, alongside food service preparation and dining areas, laundry, and property room.
Sue Mickens appointed Warden of EWF effective July 1, 2014 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Brian Owens announced the appointment of Sue Mickens as the Warden of Emanuel Women's Facility effective July 1, 2014.
PREA Cycle 3: EWF receives offenders sentenced to GDC Finding
A PREA audit states EWF receives offenders sentenced to the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Meosha McMillan promoted to Warden at EWF effective July 1, 2016 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the promotion of Meosha McMillan to Warden at Emanuel Women's Facility, effective July 1, 2016.
PREA Cycle 3: current population stated as 250 adult female offenders Statistic
A PREA audit states the current population is 250 adult female offenders. This conflicts with the same audit's 'Current population of facility: 406' figure.
250 people vs. 406 current population of facility (same audit)
McMillan oversaw 80 staff and 415 medium security female offenders at EWF Statistic
As Warden, Meosha McMillan was responsible for overseeing 80 staff members and 415 medium security female offenders at Emanuel Women's Facility.
80 staff vs. 415 female offenders
State of Georgia holds title to Emanuel Women's Facility property Legal fact
Board of Corrections minutes record that the State of Georgia owns and holds title to, and the Georgia Department of Corrections is in custody of, property in Emanuel County, Georgia, known as the Emanuel Women's Facility.
Meosha McMillan promoted from EWF to Warden at Pulaski State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Meosha McMillan from Emanuel Women's Facility to Warden at Pulaski State Prison, effective October 1, 2020.
Right of Limited Access and Permanent Easement to Georgia Power at EWF Legal fact
Board of Corrections minutes describe a resolution presenting a Right of Limited Access and Permanent Easement to Georgia Power Company, Inc. at Emanuel Women's Facility.
New Education Building under construction at EWF (2022) Policy
Board of Corrections minutes state the Department of Corrections is completing construction of a new Education Building at Emanuel Women's Facility.
Vicki Winkfield promoted to Warden at EWF effective June 15, 2021 Case detail
A GDC press release states Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Vicki Winkfield to Warden at Emanuel Women's Facility, effective June 15, 2021.
Winkfield responsible for 85 staff and approximately 415 female offenders Statistic
As Warden, Vicki Winkfield would be responsible for overseeing 85 staff at the facility and approximately 415 female offenders, per a GDC press release.
85 staff vs. 415 approximately female offenders overseen
CY2025 Inmate Statistical Profile lists 'Emanuel Unit' as male institution with 1 release Statistic
GDC's CY2025 Inmate Statistical Profile lists 'Emanuel Unit' as a male institution with 1 inmate released (0.01%), listed separately from 'Emanuel Womens Facility' which had 156 female inmates released, under the table 'Institution type - state prisons'.
1 inmates released vs. 156 Emanuel Womens Facility releases
Jessie Williams promoted to Warden at EWF effective March 1, 2023 Case detail
A GDC press release states Jessie Williams was promoted to Warden at Emanuel Women's Facility (WF) effective March 1, 2023, and would be responsible for overseeing 122 staff at the facility.
Sources
58 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Barbara Cumming
[person]
Board of Corrections
[organization]
Brian Owens
[person]
Bridgette Cunningham
[person]
Centurion
[organization]
Conference Committee Substitute to H.B. 973
[legislation]
Dodge State Prison
[facility]
Donna Barwick
[person]
Emanuel Detention Center
[facility]
Emanuel Probation Detention Center
[facility]
Emanuel Unit
[facility]
Emanuel Women's Facility
[facility]
GDC
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Power Company
[organization]
Georgia Tech Research Corporation
[organization]
Gwendolyn Green
[person]
Hancock State Prison
[facility]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
HB 973 (Amended FY2026)
[legislation]
HB 974 (FY2027)
[legislation]
Homer Bryson
[person]
Jeff Coleman
[person]
Jeffrey Brewer
[person]
Jennifer Clark
[person]
Jessie Williams
[person]
Johnson State Prison
[facility]
JPay
[organization]
Katherine Wells
[person]
Kochelle Watson
[person]
Lee State Prison
[facility]
Library of Congress Braille Transcribers Certification program
[program]
Long Unit
[facility]
McEver Probation Detention Center
[facility]
Meosha McMillan
[person]
Montgomery State Prison
[facility]
Pulaski State Prison
[facility]
Robert Humes
[person]
Smith Transitional Center
[facility]
Southeastern Technical College
[organization]
Stephanie Mainer
[person]
Sue Mickens
[person]
Thomas Paul
[person]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
Vicki Winkfield
[person]
Wheeler Correctional Facility
[facility]
Whitney East-Hendrix
[person]
Whitney Williamson
[person]