RICHMOND – Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Chad Dotson announced today that four VADOC facilities have officially closed, as previously announced in December 2023.
The decision to close Augusta Correctional Center, Sussex II State Prison, Haynesville Correctional Unit #17 and Stafford Community Corrections Alternative Program (CCAP) was made to enhance employee, inmate, and probationer safety, to address longstanding staffing challenges, and in consideration of significant ongoing maintenance costs.
The VADOC can confirm that every employee who wished to remain employed by the agency was able to stay with the Department, thanks to the diligence and dedication of the VADOC’s Office of Human Resources. This fulfills the goal set by the VADOC when the facility closures were announced.
Affected inmates and CCAP probationers were relocated to other VADOC facilities across the state, based on security level and classification.
“I want to place on the record a sincere thank you to the Virginia Department of Corrections team members, both past and present, who helped to make Augusta, Sussex II, Haynesville CU, and Stafford CCAP such positive forces for safety, security, and reentry,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “Where you work can help form your identity, and I know this decision was not an easy one for many corrections team members. I value their patience and professionalism as we navigated this difficult, but necessary decision that ultimately enhances public safety and increases operational efficiency.”
“I also thank our Office of Human Resources team for their commitment to ensuring every person who wanted to stay with the agency was able to do so. The VADOC is nothing without its corrections team members and I thank those who chose to stay. I hope the employees who accepted transfers are enjoying their new work locations, and wish those who either sought other employment opportunities or accepted enhanced retirement or severance benefits the best in their future endeavors.
The VADOC continues to uphold its mission of ensuring public safety by providing effective incarceration, supervision, and evidence-based reentry services. More information about the agency can be found on the VADOC website.
