January 13, 2023
More than 23,000 Contraband Items Confiscated in Calendar Year 2022
Commissioner: Tyrone Oliver
Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath
Over 120 Full Facility Shakedowns Conducted
FORSYTH, Ga. – In its continued commitment to eradicating facilities of dangerous contraband, the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) has completed multiple shakedowns across the state. As of January 1, 2023, through the dedication and commitment of the GDC Tactical Squads, Immediate Response Team, Investigators and Agents, more than 120 full-facility shakedowns have been completed, resulting in more than 23,000 contraband items being removed from facilities.
During calendar year 2022, the following illegal contraband was confiscated:
- 8,074 cell phones
- 3,241 cell phone chargers
- 11,687 weapons
- 111,445 grams of marijuana
- 520 grams of cocaine
- 373,663 grams of tobacco
- 21,088 grams of methamphetamine
- 993 gallons of alcohol
- 3130 pills
"We are determined to actively fight the threat that contraband poses to the safety of the public, our staff, and inmates," said Commissioner Tyrone Oliver. "Our efforts will not only increase in number but will become more apparent as we continue to be steadfast in upholding our non-negotiable mission of protecting the public."
In a multifaceted approach to halt illegal contraband from entering our facilities, the GDC continually evaluates and implements security processes such as full-facility shakedowns, "Quick Strike" health and wellness checks and state-of-the-art technological systems.
We will continue reporting the results as full facility shakedowns are completed throughout the state.
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 approximately 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 https://gdc.georgia.gov.