Commissioner: Homer Bryson

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Activity monitored by Center staff

FORSYTH, Ga. – Residents at all of the state’s 13 Transitional Centers (TC) were given the opportunity to carry a cell phone, beginning July 1st. This program has been implemented in an effort to improve timely communication between the Center staff and the residents while they are at work. Additionally, the residents will now have the ability to communicate with family at any time, which will help in strengthening family bonds.

“These individuals are in the process of returning to their communities, and we believe it is important that they begin learning the responsible use of technology,” said Commissioner Homer Bryson. “They have earned this opportunity, and understand it comes with an expectation of accountability.”

Procedures have been developed at each facility to address compliance with proper and appropriate usage. Each resident must sign a waiver acknowledging that their phone is subject to search by Georgia Department of Corrections staff, at any time. Residents are responsible for the purchase of their phone and a record of the phone number, SIM information, and carrier is kept at the facility. Prior to the issuance of cell phones, residents were able to take activity passes to local libraries where they could use Internet connections to search and apply for jobs, and access email, social media and other sites. 

To have the opportunity to transfer to a TC, an offender must receive a referral from either the Board of Pardons and Paroles or the Classification Committee within a state prison. Selection of offenders is based on, but not limited to, criminal history, behavior while incarcerated, and release date.

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.