Eric Cox, the Deputy Warden of Security at Ware State Prison, is set to take over as the new Warden at Dodge State Prison starting July 16. This announcement comes directly from the Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Tyrone Oliver. Cox, who has been part of the GDC since 2008, is tasked to supervise a staff and roughly 1,236 male inmates at Dodge SP.
"Eric has been a dedicated team member who consistently leads by example. We are confident his vast correctional knowledge will help ensure success for both the staff and offenders Dodge SP," Oliver said, according to the official press release. He brings to the table over 17 years of experience in various capacities within the department, climbing the ranks from Correctional Officer to his current position.
During his tenure at Smith State Prison, which marked the beginning of his corrections career, Cox garnered promotions through the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Chief of Security. He was also a part of, and eventually led, the Tactical Squad (TACT), exhibiting leadership and strategic operational capabilities within high-pressure environments.
In 2019, Cox's trajectory within the GDC continued to ascend as he was promoted to Unit Manager at Smith SP. By 2021, he achieved the role of Deputy Warden of Security and was eventually reassigned to Ware SP. Alongside his hands-on experience, Cox has engaged in extensive training programs—ranging from Basic Correctional Officer Training to Warden’s Pre-Command—which are anticipated to be instrumental in his new role at Dodge SP, the department believes. His background in fire inspection and special operations command will quickly prove to be a vital asset in managing the complex ecosystem that is a state correctional facility, as per the Georgia Department of Corrections.
The change in leadership comes during a time of heightened scrutiny on correctional institutions. As the new Warden, Cox is expected to navigate the intricacies of prison management, upholding the GDC's standards and improving upon the facilities' operations to meet contemporary correctional demands.
