2013 Probation Officer of the Year Named

Commissioner : Brian Owens

Director of Public Affairs : Joan Heath

Justin Ussery Honored

FORSYTH - Ga. - The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) honored Justin Ussery of the Dahlonega Probation Office as Probation 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.

"Justin is a proactive employee who constantly strives for improvement," said Commissioner Brian Owens. "He is a model member of our agency," added Owens.

The Probation Officer of the Year award is presented to an officer who consistently demonstrates the ability to prioritize responsibilities, leadership qualities and the appropriate balance between probation's law enforcement and treatment role.

Officer Ussery began supervising the sex offender caseload in the Enotah Circuit in January 2013. As shown in annual audits on his caseload, Ussery made a noticeable improvement from the previous year by achieving a 32% increase in score. He has gone above and beyond the call of duty by establishing and maintaining professional interagency relationships throughout the Enotah Circuit. Ussery's devotion and dedication to family and community reflect credit upon himself and the 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.