New Superintendent at Turner Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Center

Commissioner: Timothy C. Ward

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Jerry Blackshear, Jr. Promoted

FORSYTH, Ga. – The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) Commissioner Timothy C. Ward announced the promotion of Jerry Blackshear, Jr. to Superintendent at Turner Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Center (RSAT), effective July 1, 2022. As Superintendent, Blackshear will be responsible for overseeing all staff members and approximately 200 probationers.

"Jerry has continually demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities in each position he has held within the agency," said Commissioner Timothy C. Ward. "We look forward to his continued support and dedication to the GDC mission."

Blackshear, Jr. began his career with the Department in 2003 as a Correctional Officer at Wilcox State Prison (SP). In 2006, he joined the Correctional Tactical Squad.  In 2008, he was promoted to Sergeant at Turner Pre-Release Center and in 2011 he was promoted to Lieutenant/Chief of Security.  Blackshear, Jr. was promoted to Assistant Superintendent at Turner RSAT in 2016, and in 2021, he was promoted to acting Superintendent, where he currently serves.

Blackshear, Jr. is currently pursuing his bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. He has completed the following departmental training: Basic Correctional Officer Training, CERT Basic Training, Sergeants Academy, Basic Management Training, Professional Management Program through Columbus State University, Advanced Management Training, and Assistant Superintendent Training.  

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 47,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 9,000 employees. For more information on the GDC, call 478-992-5247 or visit http://www.gdc.ga.gov