New Warden at the Special Management Unit

Eric Cox Promoted

FORSYTH, Ga. – The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) Commissioner Tyrone Oliver announced the promotion of Eric Cox, Warden at Dodge State Prison (SP), to Warden at the Special Management Unit (SMU), effective January 16, 2026. As Warden, Cox will be responsible for overseeing staff members and approximately 150 special mission male offenders.

"Eric has consistently demonstrated his commitment and professionalism throughout his tenure with the agency," said Commissioner Oliver. "We appreciate his dedication and we support his continued success as he takes on this significant leadership role as Warden at the SMU."

Cox began his career with the GDC in 2008 as a Correctional Officer at Smith SP. During his tenure at Smith SP, he was promoted through the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Chief of Security.  While at Smith SP, he also served on the Tactical Squad (TACT) and was the TACT Squad Commander.  In 2019, he was promoted to Unit Manager at Smith SP, and in 2021, he was promoted to Deputy Warden of Security. In 2022, he was reassigned to Ware SP as Deputy Warden of Security, and in 2025, he was promoted to Warden at Dodge SP, where he currently serves. 

Cox has completed the following departmental training: Basic Correctional Officer Training, Fire Inspector Training, Supervision I, II and III, Sergeant’s Academy, Special Operations Commander’s Training, Deputy Warden of Security Training, and Warden’s Pre-Command.

###

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 50,000 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 .