Press Releases

Georgia Department of Corrections
Brian Owens, Commissioner

Director of Public Affairs
Joan Heath

Contact: Office of Public Affairs (478) 992-5247

STATE OF GEORGIA

For Immediate Release

Individual Fitness Award Recipient Named - Eric Johnson Honored

FORSYTH - Ga. - The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) presented Eric Johnson of Douglasville Probation Office with the Individual Fitness Award at the Tenth Annual GDC Awards ceremony on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at the State Offices South at Tift College in Forsyth, Georgia.

"Eric's commitment to the Department's physical fitness program as well as his personal fitness regimen should be an inspiration to all," said Commissioner Brian Owens. "As employees of the Department, we should strive to follow in Eric's footsteps towards the pursuit of personal fitness."

The recipient of the Individual Fitness Award must be involved in a personal fitness plan and must diligently work towards achieving a positive health goal.

Surveillance Officer Johnson lives and promotes a healthy lifestyle. He serves as the Fitness Coordinator for the Douglasville Probation Office and motivates others through his actions. Being a man of fitness of both the mind and the body, he constantly inspires others to live a healthier lifestyle in addition to assisting them through education and instruction. As a result of his efforts, the Probation Division recently saw its first victory at the 5th Annual TACT Challenge.

Several key officials were on hand for the ceremony, which was attended by more than 200 guests. Making the award presentation with the Commissioner were Assistant Commissioner Timothy C. Ward, Board of Corrections Vice Chair Rose Williams, and special guest speakers Mercer University Athletic Director Jim Cole and Mercer University Men's Basketball Head Coach Bob Hoffman.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 55,000 state prisoners and more than 160,000 probationers. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 12,000 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5247 or visit http://www.dcor.state.ga.us.

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