Governor Perdue Announces Recommendation for Commissioner of the Department of Juvenile Justice

Atlanta - Governor Sonny Perdue announced today his recommendation of Albert Murray to serve as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). Murray will assume the duties of DJJ Commissioner upon approval by the Board of Juvenile Justice.

"Our troubled youth deserve an environment that will help get them back on the path toward a bright and prosperous future," said Governor Sonny Perdue. "Georgia's juvenile justice system needs a leader that will work tirelessly to prevent young people from ever entering the criminal justice system. Albert Murray has dedicated his career to making a difference in the lives of young people, and I believe he is the right person to lead this agency."

Murray, 57, is currently the Deputy Commissioner of Programs for the Alabama Department of Corrections and has over thirty years of experience with youth correctional programs. Previously, he served as Commissioner of the Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority and was responsible for the management of the newly established agency. From 1970 to 1997, Murray worked in various juvenile justice capacities for the State of Tennessee, including Assistant Commissioner for the Department of Children Services, Assistant Commissioner of the State Department of Youth Development, and Superintendent of the Tennessee Youth Center.

As a certified auditor for the American Correctional Association, Murray has conducted accreditation audits of juvenile systems in many states throughout the nation, including Alaska and Hawaii. Murray received a Bachelor of Sciwence in English from Tennessee State University and a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling from Middle Tennessee State University.  He and his wife, Connie, have two daughters.

"I want to extend my gratitude and appreciation for the fine service provided by Acting DJJ Commissioner Greg Maxey," said Perdue. "Greg's leadership and direction during this interim period positively impacted the department and will make it that much easier for the new Commissioner. I commend him and his staff for their excellent work."