Augusta County, VA - The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) revealed its plans to close multiple facilities across the state by 2024. The Augusta Correctional Center, Sussex II State Prison, Haynesville Correctional Unit #17, and Stafford Community Corrections Alternative Program (CCAP) are set to cease operations from July 1, 2024. This decision, according to VADOC Director Chad Dotson, aims to prioritize the safety of employees, inmates, and probationers, address staffing challenges, and alleviate maintenance costs.

The closure of these facilities will result in the need for job placement opportunities for affected VADOC employees. Reassigning personnel from Sussex II State Prison and Haynesville Correctional Unit #17, most notably to the neighboring Sussex I State Prison and Haynesville Correctional Center, is underway as an interim measure. Director Dotson emphasized his commitment to ensuring continuous employment for impacted individuals who choose to remain with the agency. Meetings have been scheduled for affected staff members to address their concerns and provide necessary support during the transition period.

In addition to the closures, the VADOC will assume control of Lawrenceville Correctional Center upon the expiration of the current contract term on August 1, 2024. Currently, the Lawrenceville Correctional Center operates as the only privately operated prison in Virginia. Governor Glenn Youngkin has plans to introduce a budget allocating additional funding to facilitate a safe transition of control to the VADOC. The Department intends to collaborate with the GEO Group, the current operator, to offer existing employees the opportunity to apply for state employment.

Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security, Terrance "Terry" Cole, expressed his support for Governor Youngkin's budget, citing the enhancement of public safety and operational efficiency within Virginia's prisons. These measures, Cole believes, will assist the VADOC in achieving its mission of promoting security and safety for staff members, inmates, and the wider Virginia community.

The VADOC, over the next six months, will work closely with employees affected by the closures, aiming to ensure continuous employment opportunities within the agency if desired. The Director of Communications for VADOC stressed that every effort will be made to support and assist impacted employees during this period of transition.

As the VADOC focuses on enhancing safety measures, addressing staffing challenges, and streamlining operations, these decisions reflect an ongoing commitment to public safety and operational excellence within the state's correctional system.