New Deputy Warden of Security at Smith State Prison

Commissioner: Timothy C. Ward

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Joseph Hutcheson Promoted

FORSYTH, Ga. – The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Joseph Hutcheson to deputy warden of security at Smith State Prison (SP) effective July 16, 2019. As deputy warden of security, Hutcheson will be responsible for overseeing approximately 325 security staff members and 1,600 close-security male offenders.

“Hutcheson is a dedicated employee who has excelled in each position he’s held within the department,” Ward said. “We look forward to the knowledge and experience he will bring to Smith State Prison.”

Hutcheson began his career with the GDC in 2003 as a correctional officer at Georgia SP.  During his tenure at Georgia SP, he was promoted through the ranks of correctional officer II, canine handler, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and major.  In 2015, he was promoted to unit manager, where he currently serves.

Hutcheson is currently pursuing his degree in criminal justice.  He has completed the following departmental training: Basic Correctional Officer Training, Basic Management Training, Sergeants Academy, Advanced Management Training, Management I, II and III, Deputy Warden of Security Academy and the Professional Management Program through Columbus State University. 

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 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 478-992-5247 or visit https://gdc.georgia.gov.