New Deputy Warden of Administration Named

Commissioner : Brian Owens

Director of Public Affairs : Joan Heath

Lela Grier Promoted

FORSYTH, Ga.— Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Brian Owens announced the promotion of Lela Grier to Deputy Warden of Emanuel Women’s Facility, effective December 1, 2014. As Deputy Warden, Grier is responsible for oversight of budget, programs and activities, and investigations at the facility housing 347 medium security female inmates located in Swainsboro, Ga.  

“Lela has dedicated 23 years of faithful service to the Department,” said Commissioner Brian Owens. “She will bring a wealth of knowledge that will greatly benefit the staff and inmates at Emanuel Women’s Facility.”

Grier began her career with the Department in 1991 as a Correctional Officer at Hancock State Prison. In 1992, Grier transferred to Washington State Prison, serving as a Correctional Officer and has served the following roles while at Washington State Prison; in 1996, Grier was promoted to Correctional Sergeant, in 2002, Grier was promoted to Correctional Lieutenant, and in 2012, Grier was promoted to Chief of Security, where she most recently served.

Grier is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Columbus State University. During her time with the Department, Grier has completed the following departmental training: Basic Correctional Officer Training (BCOT); Basic Management Training (BMT), Professional Management Program (PMP); and Correctional Leadership Institute (CLI).

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 55,000 state prisoners and more than 160,000 probationers. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 12,000 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5247 or visit http://www.dcor.state.ga.us.