New Deputy Warden of Security at Ware State Prison

Martella Walker Promoted

FORSYTH, Ga. –  The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Martella Walker, Unit Manager at Wilcox  State Prison (SP), to Deputy Warden of Security at Ware SP, effective September 16, 2025. As Deputy Warden of Security, Walker is responsible for overseeing security staff members and 1,455 male offenders.

"Martella has worked her way up through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities along the way," said Commissioner Tyrone Oliver. "We are certain she will continue to uphold the GDC mission as she begins her role as Deputy Warden of Security."

Walker began her career with the GDC at Irwin County Parole Revocation Center in 2001 as a Correctional Officer, and in 2002, she transferred to Wilcox SP. During her tenure at Wilcox SP, she was promoted through the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, Chief of Security, and Unit Manager, where she served until her most recent promotion to Deputy Warden of Security at Ware SP. 

Her departmental training consists of Basic Correctional Officer Training, Management I, II, and III, Supervision I, II, and III, Sergeant's Academy, Lieutenant's Academy, Field Training Officer, Post Instructor Training, Chief of Security Academy, and Unit Manager Academy.  

###

About the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC)

The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising approximately 49,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 9,000 employees. For more information on the GDC, call 478-992-5247 or visit http://www.gdc.ga.gov.