Valdosta State Prison (Valdosta): capacity, deaths and violence, prosecutions, lawsuits, staffing, money and audits
Valdosta State Prison: the public record, 2015 to 2026
This collection sets out facts from public sources on the subject in its title, drawn from Georgia, federal sources, national and multi-state sources and other sources. Each entry gives a short statement, the exact passage from the source that supports it, and the source's title, web address and the date it was retrieved. Searches of a source that found no match are listed too, with the wordings that were tried. The entries record what each source said when it was retrieved. They aren't a complete account of the subject, and they don't add analysis or conclusions.
Where this research is used
This page is a research collection: individual facts drawn from the sources listed further down, each traced to where it came from. A research topic brings many collections together into one overview of an issue. The facts on this page feed these 5 topics; open one to see how they fit with the rest of the evidence.
Budget & Spending
Georgia's prison budget rose from $1.53 billion in fiscal year 2024 to a $1.91 billion peak in fiscal year 2025, then fell back to $1.79 billion for fiscal year 2027 — but the money moved sharply toward health contracts, private beds and surveillance while education, reentry and food stayed near the floor. This page traces what the appropriations record actually shows, flags where GPS's own published figures (the 44% increase, the $634 million infusion, the 46-to-1 surveillance ratio) cannot be reconciled with the line items, and names the people whose deaths sit behind the cost-per-person arithmetic.
10,776 data points
Mortality & Deaths in Custody
Georgia's prison system counts its dead reliably and names them reluctantly. In 2024, 333 people died in Georgia Department of Corrections custody — the deadliest year on the state record — and the department's own single-methodology series matches independent tracking to within a handful of deaths in every year since 2015. What the numbers do not carry is cause, facility, or identity: since March 2024 the department has withheld cause of death, misclassification of homicides and overdoses is documented by the federal Department of Justice and by GPS's own research, and the state's coroner system is not required to autopsy anyone who dies in custody.
7,815 data points
Oversight & Accountability
Georgia operates one of the largest state prison systems in the country with no independent ombudsman, no inspector general for corrections, no outside monitors with a right of entry, and no oversight bill that has ever passed its legislature. Every accountability mechanism that exists — PREA compliance, internal investigations, mortality review, accreditation — is housed inside the Georgia Department of Corrections and answers to the Commissioner it is meant to check. The result, documented across 108 GPS research collections, is a system that reported 6 homicides in a month when its own records showed at least 18, that passed 273 consecutive sexual-abuse audits with zero failed standards while the U.S. Department of Justice found assault rampant, and that has faced a 93-page federal findings letter, 82 recommended remedies, a contempt order, and daily court fines without a single enforceable reform.
15,407 data points
Staffing Crisis
Georgia's prison system has been running at roughly half the correctional officer strength it is funded for since mid-2021, with vacancy rates above 70 percent at a cluster of the largest and most violent facilities. The state's own consultants called the situation an emergency at 20 of 34 prisons, and the U.S. Department of Justice found the resulting absence of supervision unconstitutional. Churn rather than hiring is the core problem: 82.7 percent of new officers leave within their first year, which means the workforce is effectively rebuilt every two years and never accumulates experience.
8,680 data points
Violence & Safety
A three-year federal investigation concluded in October 2024 that Georgia's prison system violates the Eighth Amendment by failing to protect incarcerated people from violence and sexual abuse, documenting 142 homicides between 2018 and 2023 and finding that gangs control housing units while officers are absent for hours at a time. Independent counts put the death toll far above the state's own figures, and the gap between them is itself part of the story: Georgia's violence data is produced by the same understaffed, unmonitored system it describes.
9,940 data points
Key Findings
The most impactful data from this research collection. Tap a card for the full finding and its source.
The finding
SCHR's letter states the seven-officer roster's ratio amounted to an incarcerated-person-to-security-staff ratio of 144:1, and a security staff vacancy rate of more than 93 percent.
The finding
SCHR's letter states that seven individuals on a VSP roster were charged with supervising more than 1,000 incarcerated people across 114 staff posts.
The finding
SCHR's letter states that between January 1, 2025, and August 13, 2026, 25 people died at VSP.
The finding
SCHR's letter states that a weekend roster showed seven individuals charged with supervising more than 1,000 incarcerated people across 114 staff posts, amounting to an incarcerated-person-to-security-staff ratio of 144:1 and a security staff vacancy rate of more than 93 percent.
The finding
SCHR's letter states that a GDC record from January 27, 2026 indicates there were only two officers on duty for the entire prison compound on that date.
The finding
SCHR's letter states that a GDC record from February 26, 2026 indicates there were no officers at all manning the prison's solitary confinement units that day.
The finding
SCHR's letter states that a man in K1 reported living in a cell with no working toilet for 10 days in mid-March 2026.
The finding
WALB reported that a 21-year-old was found dead in his prison cell at Valdosta State Prison on Dec. 24, and the Lowndes County Coroner's Office pronounced Je'Vion Benham dead at 6 p.m. An investigation ruled the cause of death strangulation with a manner of 'homicide,' and the coroner's office estimated he died on Monday, Dec. 22.
The finding
SCHR's letter states that on December 24, 2025, Je'Vion Benham, who was 21 years old, was found dead in his cell two days after losing his life, and that at that point his body had begun to decompose.
All Data Points
248 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
GSFIC 2022 bond list: $167.65M statewide prison transformation, no VSP named Statistic
The Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission's 2022A/2022B general obligation bond project list includes a statewide line for 'FY 2023 Property acquisition, design, construction, and equipment for state prison facility transformation project' funded at $167,650,000 under the Georgia Building Authority, not naming Valdosta State Prison or any specific facility.
$167.7M USD
SCHR letter of concern on unconstitutional conditions at Valdosta State Prison Legal fact
The Southern Center for Human Rights issued a letter of concern dated October 1, 2026, regarding unconstitutional conditions at Valdosta State Prison (VSP). The letter was signed by Alison Ganem, Attorney, and copied to Bryan Wilson, General Counsel of the Georgia Department of Corrections; Lauren Curry, Chief of Staff, Office of Governor Brian Kemp; and Senator John Albers, Chairman, Senate Committee on Public Safety.
Inmate Sinjuan Harmon killed at Valdosta State Prison Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times reported that Sinjuan Harmon, 54, was serving 20 years for armed robbery with a release date of 2043, and had a lengthy criminal record involving aggravated assault and armed robbery. He was killed in an 'altercation' at Valdosta State Prison.
At least eight VSP housing units have no functioning lights in most cells Finding
SCHR's letter states that at least eight housing units at VSP have no functioning lights in most of the cells, so people live in virtual darkness.
SCHR: No lights in most cells at VSP Finding
The Southern Center for Human Rights press release states that people incarcerated at Valdosta State Prison live in virtual darkness: in many housing units there are no lights in most cells, and incarcerated people have no light by which to eat, read, or carry out daily living activities aside from a few hours per day when sunlight filters through small cell windows.
VSP incarcerated-person-to-security-staff ratio of 144:1 Statistic
SCHR's letter states the seven-officer roster's ratio amounted to an incarcerated-person-to-security-staff ratio of 144:1, and a security staff vacancy rate of more than 93 percent.
144 incarcerated persons per security staff
SCHR: CO vacancy rate at VSP over 73 percent as of May 2026 Statistic
A letter from the Southern Center for Human Rights states that as of May 2026, the correctional officer vacancy rate at Valdosta State Prison was over 73 percent.
73%
Valdosta State Prison homicides 2021-2023 Statistic
Valdosta State Prison had two homicides in all of 2023, two in 2022, and none in 2021, according to death certificate data and GDC records cited by the AJC.
2 homicides
Warden Don Blakely motion for summary judgment in Maree v. Richardson Legal fact
In Maree v. Richardson, defendant Warden Don Blakely moved for summary judgment on August 6, 2021, supported by exhibits including deposition excerpts of Blakely, Igou, Maree, and Spiva, incident reports, and GDC progress notes.
SCHR letter copied to GDC General Counsel Bryan Wilson Case detail
The October 1, 2026 SCHR letter of concern regarding Valdosta State Prison was copied to Bryan Wilson, General Counsel of the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Five VSP officers arrested in Operation Skyhawk Case detail
Five Valdosta State Prison officers were among 150 suspects arrested during a probe into a multi-state criminal operation involving contraband in Georgia prisons; all five were charged with conspiracy to commit a felony, with other charges ranging from sexual assault by persons with authority to trading with inmates.
Mother disputes GDC account of Kristopher Sweat's death Case detail
Sweat's mother told the Valdosta Daily Times that her son had told her he was stabbed over getting the wrong socks while doing other inmates' laundry and had also reported being beaten before the stabbing, while GDC said in a statement there were no visible signs of trauma such as a stabbing.
VSP housing units with no functioning lights: B2, D2, E1, E2, F1, H1, J2, K1 Finding
SCHR's letter identifies the eight housing units with no functioning lights in most cells as B2, D2, E1, E2, F1, H1, J2, and K1.
Darren Jackson promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at VSP Policy
GDC Commissioner Gregory C. Dozier announced the promotion of Darren Jackson to Deputy Warden of Security at Valdosta State Prison, effective October 1, 2017.
SCHR: Exposed wiring throughout VSP Finding
The Southern Center for Human Rights press release states that it is not uncommon to find exposed wiring throughout Valdosta State Prison.
VSP security staff vacancy rate more than 93 percent Statistic
SCHR's letter states that the seven-officer roster reflected a security staff vacancy rate of more than 93 percent at VSP.
93%
SCHR: GDC audits show pervasive noncompliance at VSP Finding
The Southern Center for Human Rights letter states that GDC's own audits reveal pervasive noncompliance with basic correctional norms regarding safety, security, emergency response, physical conditions, and conditions in the solitary confinement units at Valdosta State Prison.
Valdosta State Prison homicides first half of 2024 Statistic
Valdosta State Prison saw four homicides in the first half of 2024, identified by the AJC as Rufus Lane (killed in January), Ricky Harris (February), Melvin Towns (April), and Shane Griffith (May).
4 homicides vs. 2 homicides in all of 2023
Stanley Williams reassigned as Warden of Valdosta State Prison Case detail
GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the reassignment of Stanley Williams to Warden of Valdosta State Prison, effective August 1, 2016. As Warden, Williams would oversee 419 staff members and 1,312 close security male offenders.
Court dismissed denial of access and deliberate indifference claims in Maree v. Richardson Legal fact
In an order memorializing a hearing, the court dismissed without prejudice the plaintiffs' denial of access to the courts claim as to all defendants and dismissed without prejudice the deliberate indifference claim against Richardson, dismissing Richardson from the case.
AFY2021/FY2022 Governor's Budget: $15.625M DOC safety/security bonds, no VSP named Statistic
The AFY2021/FY2022 Governor's Budget Report's Safe Georgia bond section lists '$15,625,000 in bond funds for safety and security enhancements' for the Department of Corrections, not naming Valdosta State Prison or any specific facility.
$15.6M USD
SCHR letter copied to Governor Kemp's Chief of Staff Lauren Curry Case detail
The October 1, 2026 SCHR letter of concern regarding Valdosta State Prison was copied to Lauren Curry, Chief of Staff, Office of Governor Brian Kemp.
30 to 85 percent of VSP housing units reportedly lack adequate lighting Statistic
SCHR's letter states that anywhere between 30 and 85 percent of the housing units at VSP reportedly lack adequate lighting.
30% vs. 85 upper bound percent
Inmate William Springer stabbed at VSP, died Sept. 16, 2025 Case detail
WALB reported that inmate William Springer was stabbed in his face and head inside Valdosta State Prison and later died at the hospital on Sept. 16, 2025.
Youngest VSP decedent (21) not found until two days after death Case detail
The Southern Center for Human Rights press release states that the Lowndes County Coroner determined that the youngest of the men who died at Valdosta State Prison, who was only 21 years old, was not found until two days after he died.
GDC official VSP vacancy rates: 73% COs, 68% security, 62% all staff Statistic
SCHR's letter states that GDC's official figures reflect vacancy rates at VSP of 73 percent for correctional officers, 68 percent for all security staff, and 62 percent for all staff.
73% vs. 68 percent all security staff vacancy
SCHR documented cell conditions at VSP: no sink, no toilet, sewage flooding, mold/vermin, heat over 100 degrees Finding
The Southern Center for Human Rights letter states it reviewed conditions at Valdosta State Prison including people living in a cell with no working sink, a cell with no working toilet, a cell with plumbing problems where the floor was flooded with waste and sewage including fecal matter, a mold- or vermin-infested cell, and a cell where the temperature regularly exceeded 100 degrees with no air conditioning or other cooling mechanisms available.
Valdosta State Prison correctional officer positions filled as of April 2024 Statistic
As of April 2024, GDC data showed that only 43 of 222 correctional officer positions were filled at Valdosta State Prison, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
43 filled positions vs. 222 total correctional officer positions
Valdosta State Prison staff and offender count (2016) Statistic
As Warden, Stanley Williams would oversee 419 staff members and 1,312 close security male offenders at Valdosta State Prison.
419 staff members vs. 1,312 close security male offenders
Mirrors added at Valdosta State Prison to increase visibility Policy
GDC's PREA Annual Report states that mirrors were added throughout Valdosta State Prison to increase visibility and reduce blind spots.
SCHR letter copied to Senator John Albers, Senate Public Safety Chairman Case detail
The October 1, 2026 SCHR letter of concern regarding Valdosta State Prison was copied to Senator John Albers, Chairman, Senate Committee on Public Safety.
VSP facility capacity 1312 Statistic
GDC's facility page for Valdosta State Prison lists capacity as 1312, constructed 1988/1956, opened 1989/1959, security level close, renovated 1989, population adult male felons.
1,312 beds
VSP correctional officer vacancy rate over 73 percent as of May 2026 Statistic
SCHR's letter states that as of May 2026, the correctional officer vacancy rate at VSP was over 73 percent.
73%
Four inmates suspected in Sept. 18, 2025 attack on Jamall Mathis at VSP Case detail
WALB reported that GDC officials believed four inmates were involved in attacking Valdosta State Prison inmate Jamall Mathis on Sept. 18, 2025, and if found responsible they would face aggravated battery charges.
Four former VSP officers sentenced Sept. 21, 2022 for beating handcuffed inmate and cover-up Case detail
On September 21, 2022, four former supervisory and deputy correctional officers at Valdosta State Prison were sentenced in federal court in the Middle District of Georgia for their roles in orchestrating, administering, and then seeking to conceal the beating of a handcuffed inmate in their custody.
Seven officers supervised more than 1,000 incarcerated people across 114 posts Statistic
SCHR's letter states that seven individuals on a VSP roster were charged with supervising more than 1,000 incarcerated people across 114 staff posts.
7 officers vs. 1,000 incarcerated people supervised
Ralph Shropshire promoted to Warden at VSP effective March 1, 2023 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Ralph Shropshire to Warden at Valdosta State Prison effective March 1, 2023.
Valdosta State Prison correctional officer vacancy rate as of April 2024 Statistic
As of April 2024, 80% of the correctional officer positions were vacant at Valdosta State Prison, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
80%
Lowndes-Troupeville Prison Branch figure (FY1962) Statistic
The Georgia Board of Corrections annual report for FY1962 lists the Lowndes-Troupeville Prison Branch, Valdosta, Georgia with a figure of 90 in a facility table alongside other prison branches.
90 inmates (figure in facility table)
Language line and investigation training at Valdosta State Prison Policy
GDC's PREA Annual Report states that at Valdosta State Prison, training was provided to staff regarding use of the language line, with additional training provided to ensure the quality of investigations, and examples were provided to show mental health follow-up for sexual abuse victims.
$9,000 officer pay increase retroactive to July 1; medium-security starting CO salary $40,044 Policy
Board of Corrections minutes record that all post-sworn officers would get a $9,000 pay increase retroactive to July 1st, and that a medium security facility starting correctional officer salary would be $40,044.
VSP mission statement Policy
GDC's facility page states Valdosta State Prison's mission is to protect the public by maintaining custody of close security offenders while providing academic and vocational education, mental health and mental retardation services and specialized evidence-based counseling programs.
GDC May 2026 vacancy rates at VSP: 73% COs, 68% security staff, 62% all staff Statistic
SCHR's letter states that GDC's official figures from May 2026 reflect vacancy rates at VSP of 73 percent for correctional officers, 68 percent for all security staff, and 62 percent for all staff.
73% vs. 68 percent (all security staff)
VSP lieutenant Lyric Oliver charged with oath violation and trading with inmates Case detail
The AJC reported that Lyric Oliver, a lieutenant at Valdosta State Prison, is charged with violating her oath as an officer and trading with inmates after allegedly receiving three payments totaling $1,880 from inmate Alfred Jones and sending him videos of herself committing sexual acts.
Sgt. Patrick Sharpe ordered assault of handcuffed inmate Dec. 29, 2018 Case detail
According to court documents and sentencing statements, on Dec. 29, 2018, Sergeant Patrick Sharpe, while on duty at Valdosta State Prison, instructed subordinate officers Ford and Scott to assault a handcuffed inmate in retaliation for an earlier altercation between that inmate and a female officer at the prison.
25 deaths at VSP between January 1, 2025 and August 13, 2026 Statistic
SCHR's letter states that between January 1, 2025, and August 13, 2026, 25 people died at VSP.
25 deaths
VSP warden role oversaw 416 staff and 1,186 medium and close security offenders (2023) Statistic
The GDC press release on Ralph Shropshire's promotion to Warden at Valdosta State Prison states he would be responsible for overseeing 416 staff and 1,186 medium and close security offenders.
1,186 offenders vs. 416 staff overseen
Valdosta State Prison had highest CO vacancy rate in GDC system Finding
Valdosta State Prison had the highest correctional officer vacancy rate in the GDC system, and the majority of the state's highest-security facilities had at least 60% of correctional officer jobs unfilled, per the AJC.
Capital Outlay Project at Lowndes-Troupeville Prison Branch (1964) Statistic
A Georgia State Board of Corrections annual report records a Capital Outlay Project at the Lowndes-Troupeville Prison Branch, Valdosta, Georgia with a total project cost of $2,098.48.
$2,098 USD
Prince Blige died after fight with another inmate Case detail
The Georgia Department of Corrections said it believed Prince Blige died due to injuries he suffered during a fight with another inmate, per WCTV.
AFY2025 capital bill: only Valdosta line is $1.5M Willis L. Miller Library, not VSP Statistic
The only 'Valdosta' line item in the AFY2025 Capital Projects and Bonds bill is $1,500,000 for major repairs to the Willis L. Miller Library in Valdosta, Lowndes County; it does not name Valdosta State Prison.
$1.5M USD
Weekend roster: 7 staff supervising over 1,000 people across 114 posts (144:1 ratio, >93% security vacancy) Statistic
SCHR's letter states that a weekend roster showed seven individuals charged with supervising more than 1,000 incarcerated people across 114 staff posts, amounting to an incarcerated-person-to-security-staff ratio of 144:1 and a security staff vacancy rate of more than 93 percent.
144 incarcerated persons per security staff vs. 93 percent security staff vacancy (minimum)
VSP officer Lyric Oliver resigned March, arrested June after GDC investigation Case detail
The AJC reported that Valdosta State Prison officer Lyric Oliver, a lieutenant, resigned in March and was arrested in June after a GDC investigation found she had improper dealings with inmate Alfred Jones, described in arrest warrants as a 'validated gang member.'
$2.2 million settlement in Jenna Mitchell suicide: largest in Georgia DOC history Case detail
Prison Legal News reported that on December 7, 2021, the parents of a 25-year-old transwoman who committed suicide while imprisoned in the Georgia Department of Corrections dismissed their federal civil rights lawsuit (Maree v. Igou) after accepting a $2.2 million settlement the preceding October 27. The settlement is described as the largest in state DOC history.
At least 14 of 25 VSP decedents aged 40 or below Statistic
SCHR's letter states that at least 14 of the men who died at VSP were aged 40 or below.
14 deaths vs. 25 total deaths
Roy Odum reassigned to Warden at VSP effective October 16, 2024 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the reassignment of Roy Odum from Warden at Ware State Prison to Warden at Valdosta State Prison effective October 16, 2024.
Melvin Towns stabbed to death at Valdosta State Prison Case detail
Melvin Towns was stabbed to death on April 21, 2024 at Valdosta State Prison, and six other prisoners were implicated in his death according to the incident report, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Prince Blige died Wednesday morning after fight Case detail
Prince Blige died Wednesday morning after a fight with another inmate at Valdosta State Prison, and was serving a life sentence following a 1990 rape conviction in Chatham County, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
GDC statewide correctional officer turnover 49% Statistic
GDC had a 49% turnover rate among correctional officers, statewide.
49%
January 27, 2026 GDC record: only two officers on duty for entire VSP compound Case detail
SCHR's letter states that a GDC record from January 27, 2026 indicates there were only two officers on duty for the entire prison compound on that date.
Jenna Mitchell suffered schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria Case detail
Prison Legal News identified the deceased Valdosta State Prison prisoner as Caleb 'Jenna' Mitchell, who suffered from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and gender dysphoria.
Youngest VSP decedent was 21, found two days after death Case detail
SCHR's letter states that the youngest man who died was only 21 years old and was not found until two days after he died, his body having begun to decompose.
VSP warden role oversaw approximately 1,163 male offenders (2024) Statistic
The GDC press release on Roy Odum's reassignment states that as Warden he would be responsible for overseeing all staff members and approximately 1,163 male offenders at Valdosta State Prison.
1,163 male offenders
Six prisoners disciplined, two charged with murder in Towns killing Case detail
Six prisoners received disciplinary reports for their roles in Melvin Towns' killing at Valdosta State Prison, and two have since been charged with murder, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Valdosta State Prison two-year maintenance expenditures FY10-FY11 Statistic
A State Auditor special examination on Maintenance of State Prisons reported FY10-FY11 two-year total maintenance expenditures at Valdosta State Prison of $1,616,672.14, of which 79.1% was in-house and 20.9% contractor.
$1.6M USD
GDC CO vacancy rate FY22 55.31%, FY23 54.47% Statistic
GDC's statewide Correctional Officers Vacancy rate was 55.31% in FY22 and 54.47% in FY23.
55.3% vs. 54.5 FY23 vacancy rate
Source
February 26, 2026 GDC record: no officers manning VSP solitary confinement units Case detail
SCHR's letter states that a GDC record from February 26, 2026 indicates there were no officers at all manning the prison's solitary confinement units that day.
Jenna Mitchell died Dec. 6, 2017 at VSP just shy of age 25 Case detail
The Advocate reported that the settlement goes to the family of Jenna Mitchell, who died December 6, 2017, at Valdosta State Prison when she was just shy of age 25.
Two former VSP officials including former Deputy Warden of Security spoke in August 15, 2026 video Case detail
SCHR's letter states that two former VSP prison officials, including the former Deputy Warden of Security, spoke in a publicly available video from August 15, 2026.
Curtis Carter promoted to Warden at VSP effective July 16, 2025 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Curtis Carter, Warden at Autry State Prison, to Warden at Valdosta State Prison effective July 16, 2025.
Shane Griffith killed six weeks after Towns in similar circumstances Case detail
Shane Griffith's death occurred six weeks after Melvin Towns was killed under similar circumstances in a similar barracks-type dorm at Valdosta State Prison, per the AJC.
Valdosta State Prison facility characteristics from 2012 audit Statistic
A State Auditor special examination on Maintenance of State Prisons listed Valdosta State Prison with a gross square footage of 397,925, a physical capacity of 1,510, 8 maintenance staff, a security level of Close, and a facility age of 23 years, in the Southwest region.
1,510 beds
GDC CO turnover fell to 40% in FY23 from 48% in FY22 Trend
GDC's statewide CO turnover decreased this fiscal year to 40% from 48% in FY 2022.
Source
Man in K1 lived with no working toilet for 10 days in mid-March 2026 Case detail
SCHR's letter states that a man in K1 reported living in a cell with no working toilet for 10 days in mid-March 2026.
Je'Vion Benham, 21, found dead in VSP cell Dec. 24; cause strangulation, manner homicide Case detail
WALB reported that a 21-year-old was found dead in his prison cell at Valdosta State Prison on Dec. 24, and the Lowndes County Coroner's Office pronounced Je'Vion Benham dead at 6 p.m. An investigation ruled the cause of death strangulation with a manner of 'homicide,' and the coroner's office estimated he died on Monday, Dec. 22.
SCHR requests GDC response by October 30, 2026 Legal fact
SCHR's letter states it respectfully requests a response from GDC by October 30, 2026.
VSP warden role oversaw approximately 1,184 male offenders (2025) Statistic
The GDC press release on Curtis Carter's promotion states that as Warden he would be responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 1,184 male offenders at Valdosta State Prison.
1,184 male offenders
Warden Ralph Shropshire fired for misconduct Case detail
Valdosta State Prison warden Ralph Shropshire was named warden in March 2023 after serving as deputy warden for the previous four years; he was fired in July 2024, and his personnel file obtained by the AJC states only that he was terminated due to 'misconduct.'
PREA audit cycle 2: facility description and mental health population Statistic
A PREA audit described Valdosta State Prison as a close security prison housing a capacity of 1159 male offenders, including a mental health population of approximately 600 during the audit period.
1,159 capacity vs. 600 mental health population (approx.)
Two inmates killed in suspected homicides on consecutive days Case detail
Two inmates were killed in suspected homicides on two consecutive days at Valdosta State Prison in summer: Lance Lumpkin died June 30 while Quoesent Bostwick died the next day, per CNHI/Valdosta Daily Times, with the Georgia Department of Corrections confirming the deaths.
Viral TikTok video shows flooded VSP cell, alleged poor conditions Case detail
WALB reported the TikTok video shows an inmate walking through a Valdosta State Prison cell filled with standing water, and the video also appeared to show a lack of lighting inside the unit.
Demolition at Valdosta State Prison to prepare for Mod Corr units Policy
Board of Corrections minutes state that demolition of the South Building, Flammable Storage, and Industries Storage at Valdosta State Prison is necessary to prepare the area for installation of new Mod Corr units.
Man in F1 had no working sink or toilet for 2-3 days in April 2025; urinated in bottles, defecated in bags Case detail
SCHR's letter states that a man in F1 reported living in a cell with neither a working sink nor a working toilet for two to three days in April 2025, during which he and his roommate urinated in bottles and defecated in bags.
Coroner Austin Fiveash: 'unfathomable that a prison can miss someone for two days' Finding
Lowndes County Coroner Austin Fiveash said in a statement regarding a Valdosta State Prison inmate death: 'It seems unfathomable that a prison can miss someone for two days. Thats [sic] a major security concern if nothing else. I understand these inmates deserve to be in prison but no one deserves to lie dead in prison for two days and begin to decompose. At some point, someone has to listen and do something. Enough lip service from Atlanta, Valdosta State Prison needs' [help].
Former VSP officials: 'Hundreds and hundreds are dying' Quote
SCHR's letter quotes former VSP officials as saying "Hundreds and hundreds are dying" and "thousands more are being subjected to some things that change them."
Shunda Woods promoted to Deputy Warden of Care & Treatment at VSP effective November 16, 2015 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the promotion of Shunda Woods as Deputy Warden of Care & Treatment at Valdosta State Prison effective November 16, 2015.
PREA audit cycle 2: standards exceeded and met Statistic
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison recorded Number of Standards Exceeded: 2 (standards 115.51 and 115.87) and Number of Standards Met: 43.
2 standards exceeded vs. 43 standards met
Jairus Dantzler died Feb. 14 at Valdosta State Prison Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times/CNHI reported that inmate Jairus Dantzler, 29, died Feb. 14 at Valdosta State Prison while serving a life sentence for rape, with no cause of death made available at the time.
GDC: inmate flooded own cell over lockdown placement Finding
The Georgia Department of Corrections said in a statement that it was determined the inmate flooded his own cell prior to recording the video because he was unhappy about being placed in lockdown.
Valdosta State Prison address and location Finding
Board of Corrections minutes identify the property as Valdosta State Prison, located in Lowndes County, Georgia at 3259 Val Tech Road, Valdosta, Georgia 31602.
Coroner: Benham pronounced dead ~6 p.m. Wednesday; estimated death Monday Case detail
Lowndes County Coroner Austin Fiveash said that around 6 p.m. on Wednesday, 21-year-old Javion Benham was pronounced dead at Valdosta State Prison, but the coroner's office estimated he died sometime on Monday, calling it 'unfathomable that a prison can miss someone for two days' and 'a major security concern.'
Cell flooded with waste and sewage including fecal matter Finding
SCHR's letter describes people living in a cell with such acute plumbing problems that the floor was flooded with waste and sewage, including fecal matter.
Charlie Marcus promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at VSP effective August 1, 2022 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Charlie Marcus to Deputy Warden of Security at Valdosta State Prison effective August 1, 2022.
Five Valdosta employees arrested in Operation Skyhawk contraband scheme Case detail
Five Valdosta State Prison employees were arrested, accused of helping an inmate move drugs and money as part of a contraband scheme uncovered in a GDC multiprison investigation dubbed 'Operation Skyhawk,' per the AJC. Shropshire's firing came after these arrests.
PREA audit cycle 2: standards not met Statistic
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison recorded Number of Standards Not Met: 0.
0 standards not met
Dewey Slayton found unresponsive Jan. 5, 2022 Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times/CNHI reported that inmate Dewey Slayton was found unresponsive on a cell floor at 3 a.m. on Jan. 5, 2022 at Valdosta State Prison, and an incident report labeled his death a suicide.
GDC denies alleged VSP conditions as false Finding
The Georgia Department of Corrections said the conditions the inmate alleged exist at Valdosta State Prison are false.
Mod Corr Units discussed at Dodge, Lee, Hays, and Montgomery State Prisons Finding
Board of Corrections minutes record that Commissioner Oliver discussed, among recent events, the Mod Corr Unit at Dodge State Prison, Lee State Prison, Hays State Prison, and Montgomery State Prison.
K2 cell flooded with water containing fecal matter in May 2026; staff failed to address for six days Case detail
SCHR's letter states that a man in K2 reported that his cell and the broader housing unit flooded with water containing large pieces of fecal matter in May 2026, and that despite conducting an inspection and personally observing the problem, prison staff failed to address the flood for six days.
WTXL article on coroner statement published 2025-12-26 Methodology note
A WTXL ABC27 article reporting the Lowndes County coroner's 'Valdosta State Prison needs help' statement was published in 2025, per its page metadata (2025-12-26T23:23:02.794).
Mold rampant in dormitories B1, D2, E1, E2, K2 per six individuals Finding
SCHR's letter states that at least six individuals housed in dormitories B1, D2, E1, E2, and K2 reported that mold was rampant on the walls, ceilings, air vents, and showers.
Delisha Bryant promoted to Deputy Warden of Security at VSP effective March 16, 2025 Case detail
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Delisha Bryant, Unit Manager at Valdosta State Prison, to Deputy Warden of Security at Valdosta State Prison effective March 16, 2025.
GDC systemwide CO vacancy rate around 50%, over 70% at ten largest facilities Statistic
GDC's systemwide correctional officer vacancy rate was around 50%, and over 70% at ten of the largest facilities, according to the DOJ findings report on Georgia prisons.
50% vs. 70 percent vacancy at ten largest facilities
PREA audit cycle 2: designated capacity and current population Statistic
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison listed Designated Facility Capacity as 1159 and Current Population of the Facility as 1013.
1,159 designated capacity vs. 1,013 current population
Wiley Tucker found unresponsive Feb. 1, 2022 Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times/CNHI reported that inmate Wiley Tucker was found unresponsive in his cell at 5 a.m. on Feb. 1, 2022 at Valdosta State Prison, and EMTs declared him dead at 5:20 a.m., with an incident report filed three days later calling the death a suicide.
GDC: video inmate had contraband cell phone disciplinary reports, placed in lockdown Finding
GDC said the inmate in the viral video had received numerous disciplinary reports for being in possession of contraband cell phones and had been placed in a lockdown unit as standard procedure.
ModCorr Units add 524 beds across four facilities Statistic
GDC's press release says ModCorr Units added 524 beds through installation of ModCorr MaxMod modular housing units at four facilities, plus one modular Medical Intensive Infirmary unit.
524 beds
At least six people reported rampant mold in VSP dorms B1, D2, E1, E2, K2 Finding
SCHR's letter states that at least six individuals who had been housed in a range of dormitories, including B1, D2, E1, E2, and K2, reported that mold was rampant on the walls, ceilings, air vents, and showers.
Threads post: Mr. Burke killed at VSP by cellmate (04/20/26) Case detail
A Threads post dated 04/20/26 states: 'Sending our condolences to the Burke family. Mr. Burke was killed today at Valdosta State Prison by his cellmate.' This is an unverified social media claim.
GDC 2025 auditors noted black substance on walls in dishwashing and shower areas Finding
SCHR's letter states that GDC's auditors conducting the 2025 assessment noted "a black substance on the walls in the dishwashing area and multiple shower areas" and called for "closer supervision with the pest control contractor."
VSP Deputy Warden of Security role oversaw 1,185 male offenders (2025) Statistic
The GDC press release on Delisha Bryant's promotion states that as Deputy Warden of Security she is responsible for overseeing staff members and 1,185 male offenders at Valdosta State Prison.
1,185 male offenders
GDC average CO vacancy rate 2021-2023 Statistic
GDC's average correctional officer vacancy rate systemwide was 49.3% in 2021, 56.3% in 2022, and 52.5% in 2023, per the DOJ findings report.
52.5% vs. 49.3 percent in 2021
PREA audit cycle 2: physical plant details Statistic
A PREA audit lists Valdosta State Prison's physical plant as 17 buildings, with 2 single cell housing units, 10 multiple occupancy cell housing units, 4 open bay/dorm housing units, and 161 segregation cells.
17 buildings vs. 161 segregation cells
George Buffkin died Feb. 13, 2022, cause listed as natural Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times/CNHI reported that George Buffkin died at Valdosta State Prison on Feb. 13, 2022, with the GDC's listing giving the cause of death as "natural."
GDC CO vacancy rate FY23 54.47%, FY24 50.92% Statistic
GDC's statewide Correctional Officers Vacancy rate was 54.47% in FY23 and 50.92% in FY24.
54.5% vs. 50.9 FY24 vacancy rate
Source
Heather Davis promoted to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Valdosta State Prison Finding
GDC Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Heather Davis to Deputy Warden of Care and Treatment at Valdosta State Prison effective April 1, 2022.
Cells with felt-heat values of 100 degrees or more Finding
SCHR's letter states that multiple men across a range of housing units reported living in cells with felt-heat values of 100 degrees or more.
SCHR: 25 people died at VSP between January 2025 and August 2026 Statistic
The Southern Center for Human Rights says 25 people died at Valdosta State Prison between January 2025 and August 2026, according to AJC reporting.
25 deaths
18 GDC prisons over 60% CO vacancy in December 2023 Statistic
By December 2023, the correctional officer vacancy rate was over 60% at 18 medium- and close-security prisons, and ten of these prisons had vacancy rates above 70%, per the DOJ findings report.
18 prisons vs. 10 prisons above 70% vacancy
PREA audit cycle 2: housing unit bed counts Statistic
A PREA audit describes Valdosta State Prison as consisting of 10 general population housing units with 500 beds, six mental health units with 264 beds, twenty-five isolation beds, 12 acute care unit beds and four crisis stabilization unit beds, with the Annex having 554 general population beds.
500 general population beds vs. 264 mental health beds
Darius Lowe found unresponsive April 13, 2022 Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times/CNHI reported that inmate Darius Lowe was found unresponsive in his cell by security staff at 1:17 a.m. on April 13, 2022 at Valdosta State Prison and declared dead by the coroner's office at 2:53 a.m., with an incident report characterizing the death as a suicide.
GDC post-Hurricane Helene facility status: no prisons flooded, no evacuations Finding
Following Hurricane Helene, Georgia DOC stated that some of its facilities temporarily lost phone/internet service and experienced a temporary loss of power, that no prisons were flooded, staffing was not affected, and no state prisons were evacuated, with water problems supplemented by potable and non-potable water tankers and bottled water.
Valdosta State Prison administrative staff listing Finding
GDC's Facility Directory List lists Valdosta State Prison & Valdosta Annex administrative staff as Deputy Warden Security Charlie Marcus, Deputy Warden Security Delisha Bryant, Deputy Warden C&T Heather Davis, and Deputy Warden Admin Len Gibson.
Multiple men reported VSP cells with felt-heat values of 100 degrees or more Finding
SCHR's letter states that multiple men across housing units reported living in cells with felt-heat values of 100 degrees or more during the summer.
Ricky Harris serving 15 years for aggravated assault at time of death at VSP Case detail
Ricky Harris was serving 15 years for aggravated assault out of Cherokee County, with a maximum release date of April 2035, at the time of his death at Valdosta State Prison following a fight.
July 2026 Valdosta Daily Times reported heat index exceeding 100 degrees Finding
SCHR's letter states that in July 2026 the Valdosta Daily Times reported "sweltering heat" throughout southern Georgia, including heat index values exceeding 100 degrees.
AJC: VSP cells without working lights leave men in virtual darkness Finding
The AJC reported that conditions at the South Georgia prison are so dysfunctional that men held there live in virtual darkness because so many cells are without working lights, as the facility has experienced a rash of preventable deaths, according to the Southern Center for Human Rights review.
GDC CO vacancy climbed from 11% to 18% (2014-2018), then to 60% by April 2023 Trend
From 2014 to 2018, GDC's annual average CO vacancy rate climbed from almost 11% to over 18%; between 2018 and 2023 staffing fell precipitously, reaching a systemwide CO vacancy rate of 60% in April 2023 with over 2,800 vacant officer positions. As of the end of 2023, GDC still had over 2,800 unfilled CO positions, per the DOJ findings report.
PREA audit cycle 2: staff employed and hired Statistic
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison reported the number of staff currently employed by the facility who may have contact with inmates as 289, and the number of staff hired by the facility during the past 12 months who may have contact with inmates as 161, with Shawn Emmons as Warden.
289 staff currently employed vs. 161 staff hired in past 12 months
Hakeem Williams fatally assaulted by cellmate Feb. 28, 2022 Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times/CNHI reported that inmate Hakeem Williams was fatally assaulted by his cellmate at 12:10 p.m. on Feb. 28, 2022 at Valdosta State Prison.
Two juveniles apprehended with contraband near VSP, Dec 7, 2023 Case detail
On December 7, 2023, at Valdosta State Prison, two suspicious individuals were spotted near the facility; a GDC Special Agent and the Lowndes County Sheriff's Office searched the area and apprehended two juveniles, one of whom had a black bookbag containing contraband; both juveniles were arrested.
$2.2 million settlement for death of Jenna Mitchell at Valdosta State Prison Legal fact
CNN reported that Georgia's prison system agreed to pay $2.2 million to the family of a transgender woman whose suicide threats were ignored at Valdosta State Prison, in a settlement described as one of the biggest wrongful death settlements in the history of Georgia's prison system.
VSP named among seven sites for new 'Fast Track' facility; to receive Homerville transfers Policy
The Valdosta Daily Times reported that Valdosta State Prison was named among seven state prison locations chosen to receive a new 'Fast Track' facility, and that it would also receive prisoners relocated from Homerville State Prison.
August 2026 National Weather Service alert referenced in VSP temperature discussion Finding
SCHR's letter states that in August 2026 the National Weather Service issued an alert referenced in the discussion of temperature conditions at VSP.
SCHR 14-page letter warns of 'humanitarian disaster unfolding at Valdosta State Prison' Quote
The AJC reported that the Southern Center for Human Rights sent a 14-page letter to Georgia Department of Corrections officials earlier in the month warning of a "humanitarian disaster unfolding at Valdosta State Prison," and that the center said the facility's conditions are illegal and violate the U.S. Constitution.
GDC HR Director acknowledges pay lags salary market Finding
GDC's Human Resources Director acknowledged that GDC still 'lag[s] behind in the salary market,' so pay remains 'a factor' in officer retention, per the DOJ findings report.
PREA audit cycle 3: designed capacity and current population Statistic
A later PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison recorded designed facility capacity of 1060 and current population of 841.
1,060 designed capacity vs. 841 current population
Medical assistance called for Derick Joshua Ferrell April 6 Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times/CNHI reported that at 9:46 p.m. on April 6, medical assistance was called to dormitory A2 at Valdosta State Prison for inmate Derick Joshua Ferrell, who was taken to the prison's medical bay.
FY2025 budget: 4% COLA (max $3,000), $3,000 POST officer enhancement, additional CO positions Policy
GDC's FY2025 budget funded a 4% cost-of-living adjustment for all state employees (not to exceed $3,000) and an additional $3,000 salary enhancement for selected POST certified law enforcement officers, plus funding for additional correctional officer positions.
Source
Jenna Mitchell died December 6, 2017 after suicide threats at Valdosta State Prison Case detail
CNN reported that Jenna Mitchell died at a Georgia hospital on December 6, 2017, after threatening suicide while an inmate at Valdosta State Prison.
Nobles v. VSP dismissed without prejudice (Aug. 2024) Legal fact
The docket for Nobles v. Valdosta State Prison, a multi-plaintiff prisoner prison-conditions case under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, shows the complaint was dismissed without prejudice because it did not appear the claims would be barred by the statute of limitations if refiled. Ordered by US District Judge W. Louis Sands on 8/13/2024.
Holding cages about size of telephone booth with no toilets, sinks, or beds Finding
SCHR's letter states that holding cages at VSP are about the size of a telephone booth, with no toilets, sinks, or beds, too small to accommodate substantial movement or allow people to lie down.
AJC: VSP cells infested with mold and vermin; temperatures exceed 100 degrees; 'shocking number' of cells lack functioning sinks or toilets Finding
The AJC reported that per the SCHR letter, cells at Valdosta State Prison are infested with mold and vermin, temperatures can exceed 100 degrees with no air conditioning, and a "shocking number" of cells are without functioning sinks or toilets, with floors covered with waste and sewage.
August 2021 sexual assault reported at Valdosta State Prison Case detail
In August 2021, a man at Valdosta State Prison reported that another incarcerated person choked him and forcibly penetrated his mouth in the cell where the man had been sleeping, which was not his assigned cell; he had been in this cell for about a week and was repeatedly physically abused by the other incarcerated person during that time, per the DOJ findings report.
PREA audit cycle 3: standards exceeded Statistic
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison recorded Number of standards exceeded: 2.
2 standards exceeded
Jenna Mitchell died of apparent suicide Dec. 4, 2017; lawsuit filed Case detail
Valdosta Daily Times/CNHI reported that on Dec. 4, 2017 inmate Jenna Mitchell died of apparent suicide at Valdosta State Prison, and a lawsuit was filed against the state prison system claiming her death was due to deliberate "indifference" to her medical and mental health needs.
GDC turnover reduced to 28% in FY25, down >11% since FY23 Trend
GDC reduced its overall turnover rate by more than 11% since FY23, bringing the rate to 28% for FY25.
Source
Correctional officer assaulted at VSP with homemade weapon Case detail
The Georgia Department of Corrections said multiple inmates assaulted a Valdosta State Prison Correctional Officer Wednesday afternoon with a homemade weapon, leaving him with serious injuries.
Jenna Mitchell was serving up to 10 years for 2015 robbery and held in men's prison Case detail
Jenna Mitchell was an inmate at Valdosta State Prison serving up to 10 years for a 2015 robbery conviction, and was being held at a prison for men.
Keyes v. VSP dismissed without prejudice for failure to prosecute (Mar. 2026) Legal fact
The docket for Keyes v. Valdosta State Prison shows the case was dismissed without prejudice for the plaintiff's failure to follow the court's orders and prosecute the action. Ordered by US District Judge W. Louis Sands on 3/9/2026.
13 of 15 interviewed reported seeing people held in cages for days to weeks Statistic
SCHR's letter states that 13 of the 15 individuals with whom it spoke reported seeing other incarcerated people at VSP in a holding cage for some amount of time, anywhere from two to three days to two to three weeks.
13 of 15 interviewed
AJC headline: 'Men live amid darkness, raw sewage at South Georgia prison, group says' Quote
The AJC headline for its article on the SCHR review of Valdosta State Prison, as stored, reads "Men live amid darkness, raw sewage at South Georgia prison, group says" with the dek "Inhumane conditions lead to suffering, death at Valdosta State Prison, Southern Center for Human Rights alleges in new review."
DOJ did not physically visit Valdosta State Prison during investigation Methodology note
The DOJ's findings report lists the prisons DOJ physically visited in 2022 and 2023; Valdosta State Prison is not among them, though Valdosta was included in the incident-data analysis covering January 1, 2022 to April 26, 2023.
PREA audit cycle 3: standards met and not met Statistic
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison recorded Number of standards met: 43 and Number of standards not met: 0.
43 standards met vs. standards not met
Potential expansion of 200 beds at Valdosta State Prison Statistic
A State Auditor report on GDC listed a potential facility expansion at Valdosta State Prison of 200 beds, male, medium security, operating status, at a projected cost to increase of $1 million.
200 beds
GDC CO vacancy rate FY23 54.47%, FY24 50.92%, FY25 47.24% Statistic
GDC's statewide Correctional Officer Vacancy rate was 54.47% in FY23, 50.92% in FY24, and 47.24% in FY25.
47.2% vs. 54.5 FY23 vacancy rate
Source
Kendric Jackson promoted to Warden at VSP effective June 1, 2026 Policy
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Kendric Jackson, Warden at Calhoun State Prison, to Warden at Valdosta State Prison effective June 1, 2026; as Warden, Jackson will be responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 1,151 male offenders.
DOJ confirmed Valdosta State Prison within scope of civil rights investigation Legal fact
The U.S. Justice Department confirmed that Valdosta State Prison was within the scope of its civil rights investigation into Georgia prisons.
Kersaint v. VSP dismissed as duplicative (May 2025) Legal fact
The docket for Kersaint v. Valdosta State Prison shows the case was dismissed as duplicative. Ordered by US District Judge W. Louis Sands on 5/14/2025.
Man held in E2 kiosk cage multiple days after suicidal ideation, urinated in bottles Case detail
SCHR's letter states that one man reported being held in a kiosk cage in E2 for multiple days in the spring of 2025 after expressing suicidal ideation, and the cage had no sink and no toilet so he urinated in bottles.
AJC: decomposing body of a prisoner at VSP found after two days Case detail
AJC reported that the Southern Center for Human Rights says 25 people died at Valdosta State Prison between January 2025 and August 2026, and that in one instance it took two days before the decomposing body of a prisoner was found, according to a letter by the Southern Center for Human Rights.
PREA audit cycle 3: standard 115.11 exceeds standard Legal fact
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison gave standard 115.11 (zero tolerance of sexual abuse and sexual harassment, PREA coordinator) an Auditor Overall Determination of Exceeds Standard.
Valdosta State Prison FY18 average bed counts Statistic
A State Auditor report on GDC listed Valdosta State Prison, male, Close risk level, with an average standard bed count of 778, average special-use bed count of 269, and average physical bed count of 1,047.
1,047 beds
FY25 budget highlights: $114.73M locking control systems, $100.0M capital outlay Statistic
GDC's FY25 Annual Report lists 'Budget Highlights for FY25' including 'Locking Control Systems and Support: Locking control systems design and construction, locking control systems tiger team, modular correctional units' at $114,730,817, and 'Capital Outlay: Vehicle replacements; new Washington State Prison furniture, fixtures, and equipment; design for new state prison' at $100,003,375.
$114.7M USD vs. 100,003,375 Capital Outlay (USD)
Source
Seven Georgia officers arrested in Operation Skyhawk contraband scheme Case detail
The AJC reported that seven Georgia correctional officers were arrested in Operation Skyhawk, accused in a contraband scheme run by a Valdosta prisoner.
Prior six-figure wrongful death payout was $1.2 million in 2016 for Thomas M. Fitzgerald Legal fact
Before the Jenna Mitchell settlement, the last six-figure wrongful-death payout in a Georgia prisoner's case was $1.2 million in 2016, for the December 1999 death of Thomas M. Fitzgerald, who died while strapped to a bed in an isolated cell.
Youngest VSP decedent, age 21, not found until two days after death; body had begun to decompose Case detail
SCHR's letter states that the Lowndes County Coroner determined that the youngest of the men who died, who was only 21 years old, was not found until two days after he died and his body had begun to decompose.
Duplicate Kersaint filing terminated; declaration docketed in 7:25-cv-38-WLS-ALS Legal fact
A duplicate Kersaint v. Valdosta State Prison filing was terminated and its declaration ordered docketed instead in the earlier case Kersaint v. Valdosta State Prison, 7:25-cv-38-WLS-ALS, filed March 27, 2025.
1,013 people incarcerated at VSP on June 1, 2026 Statistic
SCHR's letter states that on June 1, 2026 there were 1,013 people incarcerated at VSP.
1,013 people
All GDC prisons, including VSP, locked down after gang-related altercations Case detail
All Georgia Department of Corrections prisons, including Valdosta State Prison, were placed on lockdown "out of an abundance of caution" after multiple "gang-related" altercations, per a GDC spokesperson.
PREA audit cycle 3: staff currently employed Statistic
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison reported the number of staff currently employed at the facility who may have contact with inmates as 300.
300 staff currently employed
Elander Johnson died after altercation July 25 Case detail
Elander Johnson died as a result of injuries he received during an altercation with another inmate on July 25 at Valdosta State Prison, and GDC was investigating his death as a possible homicide, per WTXL.
FY25 emergency maintenance and major repairs: $76.93M Statistic
GDC's FY25 Annual Report lists 'Emergency Maintenance, Major Repairs & Support: Capital maintenance and repairs, facility maintenance personnel and regional support, project management resources, skilled craftsmen' at $76,932,752.
$76.9M USD
Source
Operation Skyhawk confiscated 87 drones, 273 cell phones, 51 lbs ecstasy, 12 lbs meth Statistic
Governor Kemp said in a news release that Operation Skyhawk had netted 150 arrests and imposed 1,000 criminal charges against inmates, officers and civilians, with investigators confiscating $7 million worth of goods including 87 drones, 273 contraband cell phones, 51 pounds of ecstasy and 12 pounds of meth.
87 drones
Valdosta State Prison officer assaulted by several inmates with homemade weapon Case detail
Several inmates assaulted a Valdosta State Prison officer around 4 p.m. on a Wednesday, and he was hospitalized before being sent home, according to a GDC statement. The officer appeared to have been attacked with a homemade weapon.
Je'Vion Benham, 21, found dead in VSP cell December 24, 2025, two days after death Case detail
SCHR's letter states that on December 24, 2025, Je'Vion Benham, who was 21 years old, was found dead in his cell two days after losing his life, and that at that point his body had begun to decompose.
Neal v. VSP dismissed without prejudice after prior warning (Feb. 2025) Legal fact
The docket for Neal v. Valdosta State Prison shows the action was dismissed without prejudice because the plaintiff again failed to comply with the court's orders and instructions after a prior warning. Ordered by US District Judge W. Louis Sands on 2/14/2025.
PREA audit cycle 3: total staff including full- and part-time Statistic
The same PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison separately reported the total number of staff, including both full- and part-time staff, employed by the facility as of the first day of the onsite portion of the audit as 233.
233 total staff
Sinjuan Harmon killed Jan. 12 after altercation Case detail
A GDC Director of Communications said Sinjuan Harmon was killed on Sunday, Jan. 12 after an altercation with another inmate at Valdosta State Prison, and his body was turned over to the Lowndes County coroner to be transported to the GBI crime lab to determine the official cause of death, per WALB.
VSP population 983; 87% violent offenses, 60% validated gang members Statistic
According to GDC, of the 983 inmates inside Valdosta State Prison, approximately 87% are convicted of violent offenses and 60% have been identified as validated gang members.
983 inmates vs. 87 percent convicted of violent offenses
Kersaint v. Daniel court order September 2025 Legal fact
In Kersaint v. Daniel, the court directed service on Defendant Lt. Daniel and terminated Defendants Valdosta State Prison and Valdosta Georgia from the case.
1,013 people incarcerated at VSP on June 1, 2026 Statistic
SCHR's October 1, 2026 press release states that on June 1, 2026 there were 1,013 people incarcerated at VSP.
1,013 people
Coroner Austin Fiveash: 'no one deserves to lie dead in prison for two days' Quote
SCHR's letter quotes Austin Fiveash, the Lowndes County Coroner who conducted the autopsy, as telling a local news outlet that no one deserves to lie dead in prison for two days and begin to decompose, and that Valdosta State Prison needs help.
Parker v. VSP dismissed without prejudice (Feb. 2024) Legal fact
The docket for Parker v. Valdosta State Prison shows the complaint was dismissed without prejudice by a judgment entered in February 2024. Ordered by US District Judge Hugh Lawson on 2/23/2024.
GDC staffing report June 5, 2026 shows seven people on shift at VSP Statistic
SCHR's letter states that a GDC staffing report from June 5, 2026 shows seven people on shift at VSP.
7 people on shift
Only 43 of 222 correctional officer positions filled at VSP as of April 2024 Statistic
As of April 2024, GDC data showed only 43 of 222 correctional officer positions were filled at Valdosta State Prison, which houses more than 1,100 men.
43 correctional officer positions filled vs. 222 total correctional officer positions
PREA audit cycle 3: staffing breakdown Statistic
The same PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison listed a staffing breakdown for the facility of Security Staff 315, Administrative Staff 37, Food Services 16, Care and Treatment 32, Contract Mental Health 21, Contract Medical 36, Part-time Dentist 2, and Dental Hygienist 1.
315 security staff
GDC investigating two inmate deaths at Valdosta State Prison Case detail
The Georgia Department of Corrections was investigating the deaths of two inmates at Valdosta State Prison, with official causes of death still undetermined, per a WALB report.
William Springer stabbed at VSP, died Sept 16, 2025; family says not notified Case detail
A Valdosta State Prison inmate, William Springer, was stabbed in his face and head inside the prison and later died at the hospital on Sept. 16, 2025; his family said officials never contacted them and they learned about the attack from other inmates inside the prison.
VSP physical capacity 1510, operational capacity 1326 Statistic
A GDC Facility descriptions document lists Valdosta State Prison & Annex as constructed 1988/1958, with physical capacity 1510 and operational capacity 1326, opened 1989/1958.
1,510 beds vs. 1,326 operational capacity
As few as 7 officers on duty at VSP during first weekend of June 2026 Statistic
SCHR's October 1, 2026 press release states that GDC's own staffing reports showed no more than 15 and as few as 7 officers on duty on any given shift during the first weekend of June 2026 at VSP.
7 officers vs. 15 maximum officers on duty
SCHR requests GDC response by October 30, 2026 Legal fact
SCHR's letter requests a response from GDC officials by October 30, 2026, calling the matter urgent and asking for immediate remedial action.
Cainion v. VSP: show-cause order on failure to serve (Apr. 2017) Legal fact
The Cainion court ordered plaintiffs to show cause by May 29, 2017 why the case should not be dismissed as to the remaining defendants for failure to serve, in an order entered 4/28/2017 by US District Judge Hugh Lawson.
People locked down 3 to 10 months not for discipline but for lack of housing Finding
SCHR's letter states that multiple people reported being placed in lockdown for lengthy periods ranging from 3 to 10 months, not for disciplinary reasons but because there was nowhere to house them in the general prison population.
VSP houses more than 1,100 men (April 2024) Statistic
As of April 2024, Valdosta State Prison housed more than 1,100 men, per AJC reporting citing GDC data.
1,100 men
PREA audit cycle 4: designed capacity and current population Statistic
A later PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison recorded designed facility capacity of 1319 and current population of 1245.
1,319 designed capacity vs. 1,245 current population
FY2027 GDC major repairs capital request Statistic
The FY2027 Georgia capital project request list shows a statewide GDC line "Major Repairs - MEP, Water/Wastewater, Paving, Building, Roof" at 95,747,000, not naming Valdosta State Prison or any specific facility.
$95.7M USD
GDC: next-of-kin notified Sept 15 when Springer's death deemed imminent Policy
GDC stated that per protocol, on September 15, when medical professionals advised that William Springer's death was imminent, facility leadership contacted the next-of-kin listed in the offender's institutional file.
VSP bed breakdown: 500 GP, 264 mental health, 25 isolation, 12 acute care, 4 crisis stabilization Statistic
A GDC Facility descriptions document states Valdosta State Prison consists of 10 General Population units with 500 beds, six Mental Health units with 264 beds, 25 Isolation beds plus 12 Acute Care Unit beds and four Crisis Stabilization Unit beds; the Annex contains 554 General Population beds, of which 100 are designated as Residential Substance Abuse Center beds.
500 beds
GDC classified ~12 VSP deaths as alleged homicides and 6 as alleged suicides Statistic
SCHR's letter states that the GDC's incident reports about most of the deaths at VSP are heavily redacted, so complete information is unavailable, but based on the limited information provided, the GDC classified approximately 12 of the deaths as alleged homicides and 6 as alleged suicides.
12 deaths classified as alleged homicides vs. 6 deaths classified as alleged suicides
Lockdown confinement 24 hours per day, 7 days per week in cells not much larger than parking space Finding
SCHR's letter states that men in lockdown were confined 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, to cells not much larger than a parking space, with only intermittent showers and occasional medical or legal visits.
Four homicides at VSP in first half of 2024 Statistic
Valdosta State Prison saw four homicides in the first half of 2024: Rufus Lane (killed in January), Ricky Harris (February), Melvin Towns (April), and Shane Griffith (May).
4 homicides
PREA audit cycle 4: standards exceeded, met, not met Statistic
GDC's PREA Facility Audit Report for Valdosta State Prison, final report submitted 01/03/2025, found 0 standards exceeded, 45 standards met, and 0 standards not met.
0 standards exceeded vs. 45 standards met
FY2027 GDC security systems capital request Statistic
The FY2027 Georgia capital project request list shows a statewide GDC line "Security Systems & Life Safety" at 95,837,800, not naming Valdosta State Prison or any specific facility.
$95.8M USD
Valdosta Transitional Center homicide/suicide case discussed Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes record that ASAC Robert Raymond briefly discussed a Valdosta Transitional Center homicide/suicide case from December 24, 2022.
AFY2022: $5,000 state employee pay adjustment; COs get additional $2,000 Policy
Georgia's AFY budget provided a $5,000 pay adjustment to state employees including state law enforcement officers, and correctional officers additionally received a $2,000 pay increase.
Warden Marty Allen presented VSP overview to Board January 2016 Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes record Warden Marty Allen presenting a Valdosta State Prison facility overview to the Board in January 2016.
VSP holding cages: telephone-booth sized, no toilets, sinks, or beds Finding
SCHR's letter states that holding cages at VSP are about the size of a telephone booth, have no toilets, sinks, or beds, and are too small to accommodate substantial movement or allow people to lie down.
PREA audit cycle 5: designed capacity and current population Statistic
The most recent PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison recorded designed facility capacity of 1339 and current population of 1197.
1,339 designed capacity vs. 1,197 current population
Valdosta State Prison has a Tactical Squad Policy
GDC's Special Operations fact sheet lists Valdosta State Prison among the facilities with Tactical Squads that conduct inspections to detect and prevent the introduction of contraband, prevent escapes and other disturbances, and discover hazards to health or safety that may go unnoticed during a routine inspection.
Don Blakely listed as VSP Warden April 2018 Case detail
Board of Corrections minutes list Don Blakely as Warden of Valdosta State Prison among attendees in April 2018.
SCHR attorney Alison Ganem attributes VSP conditions to GDC's years-long failure Finding
SCHR attorney Alison Ganem said the conditions at Valdosta State Prison are the foreseeable result of GDC's years-long failure to keep people safe, despite warnings from GDC's internal auditors, federal courts, the U.S. Department of Justice, and SCHR.
13 of 15 interviewed people saw others held in VSP cages for 2-3 days to 2-3 weeks Statistic
SCHR's letter states that 13 of the 15 individuals with whom it spoke reported seeing other incarcerated people at VSP in a holding cage for some amount of time, anywhere from two to three days to two to three weeks.
13 individuals (of 15 interviewed) vs. 15 total individuals interviewed
Suicide decedent harmed himself five days before death per GDC records Case detail
SCHR's letter states that according to GDC's own records, one of the men who reportedly died by suicide appears to have harmed himself just five days before his death, with the incident report classifying it as "attempted suicide, self-injurious behavior."
PREA audit cycle 5: standards exceeded Statistic
A PREA audit of Valdosta State Prison recorded Number of standards exceeded: 1.
1 standards exceeded
Valdosta State Prison mental health grievances increased 310% from 2002 to 2003 Statistic
The State Auditor's Inmate Health Care report found that from 2002 to 2003, Valdosta State Prison mental health services grievances increased 310% (from 10 to 41 per 1,000 inmates), and that the facility failed its fiscal year 2003 and fiscal year 2004 clinical audits.
310%
Valdosta State Prison listed with 200 beds in 2018 expansion plan Statistic
A Georgia Department of Corrections potential facility expansion plan listed in a State Auditor's Special Examination report shows Valdosta State Prison, 200 beds, Male, Medium security, Operating status, with a projected cost to increase of $1 million.
200 beds
Data gap: WABE Senate study committee article contains no VSP mention Data gap
A search of the WABE article 'Georgia Senate study committee agrees to reform prison conditions' for 'Valdosta' and 'VSP' returned no match.
GDC classified approximately 12 VSP deaths as alleged homicides and 6 as alleged suicides Statistic
SCHR's letter states that based on GDC's incident reports, GDC classified approximately 12 of the deaths at VSP as alleged homicides and 6 as alleged suicides.
12 alleged homicides vs. 6 alleged suicides
Contraband shakedowns at Valdosta State Prison and others Case detail
GDC Tactical Squads, Immediate Response Team, Investigators and Agents conducted unannounced full-facility shakedowns at Coastal, Central, Dooly, Lee, and Valdosta State Prisons, seizing more than 1,000 total contraband items.
AJC lists 11 homicides at Valdosta State Prison Statistic
The AJC's list of Georgia prison homicides, under the heading 'Valdosta State Prison: 11 homicides,' lists DyLance Montex Lampkin, age 41, died July 30, 2023, of multiple stab wounds to torso, and Quoesent Lamont Bostwick, age 35, died July 31, 2023, of homicide with death certificate not in.
11 homicides
One VSP suicide decedent harmed himself five days before death; incident report classified as attempted suicide Case detail
SCHR's letter states that one of the men who reportedly died by suicide appears to have harmed himself just five days before his death, and that the incident report classifies it as an attempted suicide, self-injurious behavior.
Data gap: HB 67 FY2025A capital projects contains no VSP mention Data gap
A search of HB 67 (FY 2025A) Capital Projects and Bonds, Governor House, for 'Valdosta State Prison' and 'VSP' returned no match.
GDC incident reports on most VSP deaths heavily redacted Data gap
SCHR's letter states that GDC's incident reports about most of the deaths at VSP are heavily redacted, so complete information is unavailable.
Data gap: Senate Appropriations Committee Substitute to HB 68 contains no VSP mention Data gap
A search of the Senate Appropriations Committee Substitute to H.B. 68 (FY2026) for 'Valdosta State Prison' and 'VSP' returned no match.
Contraband arrest of Medical employee Deborah Mason (December 23) Case detail
A GDC contraband report states that on December 23 at Valdosta SP, Medical employee Deborah Mason entered the facility and security staff found 2 cellphones hidden in a bowl of food, after which Mason was arrested. Lowndes County Sheriff's Office was notified, and Mason was transported to Lowndes County jail with pending charges.
SCHR letter signed by Alison Ganem Case detail
SCHR's letter is signed by Alison Ganem.
Man in E2 kiosk cage unable to get mental health assessment because not in ACU Case detail
SCHR's letter states that a man held in a kiosk cage in E2 had medical records showing providers were "unable to do [a] mental health assessment" because he was "not in [the] ACU," the mental health unit where a suicidal person would ordinarily be sent.
Maree v. Richardson dismissed (2021) Legal fact
The Maree v. Richardson case over a Valdosta State Prison inmate's suicide ended in a judgment dismissing the case following a stipulation of dismissal filed by plaintiffs Jeff Spiva and Sheba Maree. The order was by US District Judge W. Louis Sands on 12/7/2021.
SCHR lists cells regularly exceeding 100 degrees with no AC among unlawful conditions Legal fact
SCHR's letter lists among the unlawful conditions at VSP living in a cell where the temperature regularly exceeded 100 degrees with no air conditioning or other cooling mechanisms available.
GDC has ample notice from SCHR, internal auditors, federal courts, and DOJ Finding
SCHR's letter states that GDC has ample notice of the problems outlined in the letter, having been raised by SCHR, the Department's internal auditors, the federal courts, and the Department of Justice.
SCHR lists mold- or vermin-infested cells among unlawful conditions at VSP Legal fact
SCHR's letter lists among the unlawful conditions at VSP living in a mold- or vermin-infested cell.
GDC Incident Report No. 440771 dated May 23, 2026 obtained via Open Records Act Legal fact
SCHR's letter cites a GDC incident report, No. 440771, dated May 23, 2026, obtained via the Open Records Act.
SCHR asks GDC to address flooding immediately and install AC in all housing units Policy
SCHR's letter asks GDC to ensure that intermittent flooding is addressed immediately so that no person is forced into contact with human waste, that sanitation and pest control efforts are intensified, and that air conditioning is installed in all the housing units.
GDC Monthly Mortality Reports January 2025 to August 2026 obtained via Open Records Act Legal fact
SCHR's letter cites GDC's Monthly Mortality Reports covering January 2025 to August 2026, obtained via the Open Records Act.
GDC Inmate Statistical Profile All Active Inmates June 1, 2026 Legal fact
SCHR's letter cites GDC's Inmate Statistical Profile: All Active Inmates at 33, dated June 1, 2026.
GDC VSP staffing roster VSP_Roster_6.5.8___13.26 pages 1-9 obtained via Open Records Act Legal fact
SCHR's letter cites a GDC VSP staffing roster titled "VSP_Roster_6.5.8___13.26," covering pages 1-9, obtained via the Open Records Act.
GDC Vacancy Rates for Select Job Types February-May 2026 page 8 obtained via Open Records Act Legal fact
SCHR's letter cites a GDC document titled "Vacancy_Rates_for_Select_Job_Types_February_-May_2026" at page 8, obtained via the Open Records Act.
A shocking number of VSP cells have no running water or functioning toilets Finding
SCHR's letter states that a shocking number of cells at VSP have no running water or functioning toilets, so people urinate in bottles and defecate in bags.
Man in K1 had no working toilet for 10 days in mid-March 2026 Case detail
SCHR's letter states a man in K1 reported living in a cell with no working toilet for 10 days in mid-March 2026, so he had no ability to flush his own waste.
Man in F1 had no working sink or toilet for two to three days Case detail
SCHR's letter states a man in F1 reported living in a cell with neither a working sink nor a working toilet for two to three days.
Man in E2 solitary had 2-3 inch layer of odorous brown water on cell floor, locked in 24 hours per day Case detail
SCHR's letter states that a man in solitary confinement in E2 reported that there was consistently a two-to-three-inch layer of odorous brown water on the floor of his cell, and he was locked in the cell 24 hours per day.
Dorm security cameras broken or inoperable in B1, B2, G1 Finding
SCHR's letter states that people housed in B1, B2, and G1 reported that dorm security cameras were broken or inoperable.
2025 GDC auditors checked 106 locks, found 72 (68%) non-compliant Statistic
SCHR's letter states that in 2025 GDC auditors "checked 106 locks" and found that 72, or 68 percent, were "non-compliant."
72 non-compliant locks vs. 106 locks checked
State of Georgia allowed GDC to ignore federal court orders, DOJ warnings, and internal calls for change Finding
SCHR's letter states that the State of Georgia allowed GDC to ignore the orders of federal courts, "fire in the house" warnings from the Department of Justice and federal prosecutors, and clarion calls for change from within its own ranks.
VSP faces profound overincarceration, understaffing, and security crisis with life-threatening consequences Finding
SCHR's letter states that VSP faces a profound overincarceration, understaffing, and security crisis that has produced dire, in many cases life-threatening or fatal, consequences for people at the prison.
GDC auditors found VSP non-compliant with minimum lighting requirements in cells Finding
A letter from the Southern Center for Human Rights states that GDC auditors found that Valdosta State Prison was non-compliant with minimum lighting requirements in incarcerated people's cells.
FY2025 GDC audit again found VSP non-compliant on lighting with exposed wiring throughout prison Finding
A letter from the Southern Center for Human Rights states that by the time of a GDC audit in fiscal year 2025, Valdosta State Prison was again found non-compliant with minimum lighting requirements, with auditors noting both the lack of adequate lighting and the presence of exposed wiring throughout the prison.
Sources
106 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Alfred Jones
[person]
Alison Ganem
[person]
Antavious Bailey
[person]
Anthony Hann
[person]
Astair Holmes Jr.
[person]
Austin Fiveash
[person]
Autry State Prison
[facility]
Benjamin Snyder
[person]
Bill Hitchens
[person]
Board of Corrections
[organization]
Bobby Carpenter
[person]
Brandon McGee
[person]
Brian Kemp
[person]
Brian P. Kemp
[person]
Bryan Wilson
[person]
Burke
[person]
Cainion v. Valdosta State Prison
[case]
Calhoun State Prison
[facility]
Charlie Marcus
[person]
Clint Crowe
[person]
Curtis Carter
[person]
Darius Lowe
[person]
Darren Jackson
[person]
David Cordova
[person]
Deborah Mason
[person]
Delisha Bryant
[person]
Department of Justice
[organization]
Derick Joshua Ferrell
[person]
Dewey Slayton
[person]
Dodge State Prison
[facility]
Don Blakely
[person]
DyLance Montex Lampkin
[person]
Elander Johnson
[person]
Fast Track
[program]
George Buffkin
[person]
Georgia Building Authority
[organization]
Georgia Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission
[organization]
Gregory C. Dozier
[person]
Hakeem Williams
[person]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
Heather Davis
[person]
Homer Bryson
[person]
Homerville State Prison
[facility]
Hugh Lawson
[person]
Jahleel Horton
[person]
Jairus Dantzler
[person]
Jamall Mathis
[person]
Je'Vion Benham
[person]
Jeff Spiva
[person]
Jenna Mitchell
[person]
Joel Domingues
[person]
John Albers
[person]
Joseph Pagan
[person]
Joshua Roman
[person]
Kealy Williams
[person]
Kendric Jackson
[person]
Kersaint v. Daniel
[case]
Kersaint v. Valdosta State Prison
[case]
Keyes v. Valdosta State Prison
[case]
Kristopher Clayton Sweat
[person]
Lance Lumpkin
[person]
Lauren Curry
[person]
Lee State Prison
[facility]
Len Gibson
[person]
Lowndes County Coroner
[organization]
Lowndes County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Lyric Oliver
[person]
Maree v. Igou
[case]
Maree v. Richardson
[case]
Marty Allen
[person]
Melvin Towns
[person]
Milton Jones
[person]
Montgomery State Prison
[facility]
National Weather Service
[organization]
Neal v. Valdosta State Prison
[case]
Nobles v. Valdosta State Prison
[case]
Operation Skyhawk
[operation]
Orvonta Tillman
[person]
Parker v. Valdosta State Prison
[case]
Patrick Sharpe
[person]
Prince Blige
[person]
Pulaski State Prison
[facility]
Quoesent Bostwick
[person]
Quoesent Lamont Bostwick
[person]
Ralph Shropshire
[person]
Randy Robertson
[person]
Ricky Harris
[person]
Rico Watson
[person]
Robert Raymond
[person]
Roy Odum
[person]
Rufus Lane
[person]
Ryan Rumph
[person]
Senate Committee on Public Safety
[organization]
Shane Griffith
[person]
Shawn Emmons
[person]
Sheba Maree
[person]
Shunda Woods
[person]
Sinjuan Harmon
[person]
Smith State Prison
[facility]
Southern Center for Human Rights
[organization]
Stanley Williams
[person]
Steven Bryant
[person]
Thomas M. Fitzgerald
[person]
Timothy C. Ward
[person]
Timothy Ward
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Department of Justice
[organization]
Valdosta Daily Times
[organization]
Valdosta Transitional Center
[facility]
W. Louis Sands
[person]
Ware State Prison
[facility]
Wilcox State Prison
[facility]
Wiley Tucker
[person]
William Springer
[person]
Willis L. Miller Library
[facility]