Commissioner : Homer Bryson

Director of Public Affairs : Joan Heath

6 dogs adopted following graduation

FORSYTH, Ga. – On April 5, seven detainees graduated from RESCUED, a dog rescue and rehabilitation program at Colwell Probation Detention Center in Blairsville, Ga. All six dogs, from this class (or group 15), were adopted following the graduation.

“The Rescued Program gives these detainees a sense of purpose,” said Commissioner Bryson. “Not only do they support the rescue and rehabilitation efforts, but they gain beneficial job skills that will greatly assist them as they transition back into society.” 

RESCUED began in June 2012 and is the first dog rescue program within the Department. The mission is to save dogs from Colwell’s partners (Humane Society’s Mountain Shelter and Castoff Pet Rescue), which would otherwise be euthanized, while providing a positive impact on the detainees who then take care of the dogs for ten weeks. 

The following courses are completed during the ten-week program: “Good Manners” (dog obedience techniques), Pet First Aid and CPR, On the Job Training in Grooming, Basic Animal Health, Basic Computer and Resume Building, Problem Solving Based on Spirituality, Workforce Development Career Coach, “How to Start a Small Business/Money Management”, and Anger Management. Detainees must also be enrolled in a GED courses if they do not possess one. 

Detainees selected to be a part of this program undergo an extensive selection process where they must write an essay, pass a thorough background check, and face an interview board that consists of but is not limited to the Superintendent, lieutenant, and recent graduates. 

“We know that if we do nothing, we cannot effect change,” said Superintendent Diane Hassett. “However, if we do something, the possibilities of change are endless.” 

This is the 15th group that has completed the Rescued program. For more information on RESCUED visit: https://www.facebook.com/Rescued-Program-527436114104038/

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5248 or visit https://gdc.georgia.gov.