2019 Bobby Franklin Award Winner Named

Commissioner : Timothy C. Ward

Director of Public Affairs : Joan Heath

Leambrer Fudge recognized

FORSYTH, Ga. –  The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) honored Special Agent Leambrer Fudge, Office of Professional Standards, with the Bobby Franklin Award at the 15th Annual GDC Awards ceremony on September 24 at GDC headquarters in Forsyth, Ga.  Several key officials were on-hand for the ceremony, which was attended by more than 400 guests. Making the award presentation with Commissioner Timothy C. Ward were Alton Russell, Board of Corrections Chairman, Christopher Clark and Donnie Pope, Board of Corrections, and Assistant Commissioner Ricky Myrick.

“Special Agent Fudge has continuously shown her dedication to the agency and the community,” said Assistant Commissioner Ricky Myrick.  “Her bravery and commitment go above and beyond in ensuring the public’s safety.” 

Earlier this year, Special Agent Fudge encountered an individual running along the interstate, and immediately stopped her vehicle and identified herself as a law enforcement officer.  She determined the subject needed immediate medical attention and contacted 911.  Emergency Medical Services and local law enforcement officials arrived on the scene, at which time SA Fudge learned the individual was suspected of committing a felony offense moments before her encounter with him.

The Bobby Franklin Award was created to honor the memory of Correctional Officer Bobby Franklin of the Colwell Probation Detention Center. Officer Franklin died on August 20, 2003 while deployed in Iraq. He was a Staff Sergeant with the 210th National Guard Military Police in Franklin, North Carolina, and voluntarily lengthened his tour of duty to remain with his troops. He began his career with the Department of Corrections in 1987. 

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.