Who Conducts a Georgia State Prison Inspection?

A division of the Georgia Department of Corrections' Office of Investigations and Compliance (OIC) -- the Compliance Unit -- conducts Georgia state prison inspections. Officers from the Compliance Unit inspect and evaluate prisons based on the department's standards that include safety, security and efficiency.

History

• In 2005, the Georgia Department of Corrections combined several existing groups to form the OIC. The merge of divisions streamlined the investigative process, making prison inspections and other responsibilities more efficient.

Purpose

• The Compliance Unit inspects prisons and correctional facilities for a number of reasons, the majority of which involve assessments of safety and the prison's adherence to policies and standards.

Process

• Georgia state prison inspections vary according to the facility. Most prisons undergo yearly evaluations unless the OIC inspector determines non-compliancy. In the case of non-compliancy, the OIC provides the prison with 90 days to bring the facility up to code. After the 90 days, another inspection by the Compliance Unit ensures everything is up-to-date and according to Georgia Department of Corrections standards.