The Georgia Department of Corrections has appointed a new warden for Smith State Prison. Charles Mims, the current head at Wilcox State Prison, is set to take over the responsibilities as Warden at Smith SP starting July 16, 2025. In a recent announcement made by GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver, it was noted that Mims will be at the helm of managing the staff and approximately 1,145 male offenders housed at the facility. His promotion comes after a career spanning 18 years with the GDC, where he has systematically risen through the ranks.
Throughout his tenure with the Georgia Department of Corrections, Charles Mims has accumulated a wide scope of experience. He began his career in 2007 as a Correctional Officer and has since served in various capacities, including as a member of the elite Cobra Squad and as a Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT) Sergeant. His journey to warden was paved with promotions to increasingly responsible roles such as Lieutenant, Captain, and Deputy Warden of Security at Valdosta State Prison, as per a statement from the GDC. Mims has also been the Special Assistant to the Warden at Wilcox SP before stepping into his current role there.
Commissioner Tyrone Oliver expressed high confidence in Mims’ abilities, stating, "Charles has worked his way up through the ranks and excelled at each position he has held with the agency. We are confident that his experience and professionalism will serve him well while he continues to uphold the GDC mission as Warden at Smith SP." This sentiment affirms the GDC's belief in his competence to manage the diverse challenges of prison administration.
Mims' extensive training background includes an array of departmental programs such as Basic Correctional Officer Training, Advanced Management Training, and the Warden's Pre-Command. He has also completed the Professional Management Program through Columbus State University, which has equipped him to effectively lead in various roles within the GDC. With an extensive background in security and tactical operations, Mims aims to bring his experience in the field to ensure effective administration and security at Smith State Prison.
