Press Releases

FORSYTH, Ga. - The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) honored Aaron Cobb and Harris Gaines of the Hartwell Probation Office as Probation Officers of the Year at the 11th Annual GDC Awards ceremony on July 7at State Offices South at Tift College in Forsyth, Ga.

“Cobb and Gaines represent the best and brightest of the Georgia Department of Corrections and the Probation Division,” said Commissioner Homer Bryson. “Their skills and abilities will continue to serve them well as part of the new Department of Community Supervision.   

Cobb and Gaines served with the Georgia Department of Corrections until the transfer of Probation Operations and personnel to the new Department of Community Supervision on July 1, 2015.

The Probation Officer of the Year award is presented to an officer who consistently demonstrates the ability to prioritize responsibilities, leadership qualities and the appropriate balance between probation’s law enforcement and treatment role. This year, Officers Cobb and Gaines were both nominated for these qualities, and for their heroic actions during a critical incident assisting local law enforcement.

On September 17, 2014, the Hart County Sheriff’s Office received a report that shots were being fired at the residence of a probationer. Officers Cobb and Gaines, who were at the Sherriff’s office at the time of the call, recognized the address and immediately proceeded to the residence as back up. After firing at officers and a brief standoff, the offender was apprehended with the help of Officers Cobb and Gaines.

In the ensuing investigation, Georgia Bureau of Investigations, Special Agent in Charge, Mike Ayers, acknowledged that the actions and awareness of the two officers most likely prevented other officers from being injured.

Several key officials were on hand for the ceremony, which was attended by more than 200 guests.  Making the award presentation with Commissioner Homer Bryson were Assistant Commissioner of Administration & Finance Scott Poitevint, Assistant Commissioner of Facilities Division Timothy C. Ward, and Board of Corrections Chair Rose Williams.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 55,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5247 or visit http://www.gdc.ga.gov/