2013 Correctional Officer of the Year Named

Commissioner : Brian Owens

Director of Public Affairs : Joan Heath

Charles Stone Honored

FORSYTH - Ga. - The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) named Charles Stone of Patten Probation Detention Center (PDC) as Correctional Officer of the Year at the Tenth Annual GDC Awards ceremony on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at State Offices South at Tift College in Forsyth, Georgia.

"Charles is a model Officer, showing devotion and good character both on and off duty," said Commissioner Brian Owens. "It is his determination to enforcing our agency's mission that makes him deserving of this high honor."

The Correctional Officer of the Year award is presented to an officer with first-rate knowledge of inmate behaviors and policy and procedures. The recipient of this award must display an outstanding effort and motivation towards job performance and duties.

Officer Stone began his career with the Department in 2010 at Patten PDC. His loyalty to the Department is evident. He is the first to volunteer when a shift is short, and is always available to come in early or stay late. Officer Stone has been an integral part in the successful implementation of the greenhouse operation and horticulture program at Patten PDC. Officer Stone's proficiency in our agency's policies and his willingness to place the needs of the facility before his speaks to his level of commitment to the team and Department.

Several key officials were on hand for the ceremony, which was attended by more than 200 guests. Making the award presentation with the Commissioner were Assistant Commissioner Timothy C. Ward, Board of Corrections Vice Chair Rose Williams, and special guest speakers Mercer University Athletic Director Jim Cole and Mercer University Men's Basketball Head Coach Bob Hoffman.

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 https://gdc.georgia.gov.