New Deputy Warden of Security at Lee Arrendale State Prison

Commissioner: Timothy C. Ward

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Heather Russell Promoted

FORSYTH, Ga. – The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Heather Russell to Deputy Warden of Security at Lee Arrendale State Prison (SP) effective January 1, 2022. As deputy warden of security, Russell will be responsible for overseeing security staff members and over 1,700 special mission female offenders.

“Russell has risen through the ranks during her 18-year tenure with the department,” said Commissioner Timothy C. Ward. “We are confident her correctional knowledge and leadership skills will prove beneficial to upholding the mission at Lee Arrendale SP.”

Russell began her career with the GDC in 2004 as a Clerk II at Lee Arrendale SP.  During her tenure at Lee Arrendale SP, she was promoted through the ranks of Correctional Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Unit Manager, where she currently serves.  

Russell attended Emmanuel College, and her departmental training consists of Basic Correctional Officer Training, Basic Management Training, and Sergeants 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 nearly 47,000 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 https://gdc.georiga.gov.