Department of Juvenile Justice Commissioner and Conyers resident Albert Murray was recently appointed by Governor Sonny Perdue to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles.
Murray's appointment will be effective May 15 to December 31, 2016 and he will replace Milton E. "Buddy" Nix, whose term expired December 31, 2009.
"Commissioner Murray has done an outstanding job leading the Department of Juvenile Justice, including ending 11 years of federal oversight after demonstrating the care and education of Georgia's juvenile offenders has dramatically improved," said Perdue. "He is a compassionate public servant that understands our justice system well and will provide a perspective on the Board of Pardons and Paroles shaped by his considerable experience and knowledge in the field."
Governor Perdue is recommending current Pardons and Paroles Board member Garland R. Hunt to the Board of Juvenile Justice as Commissioner Murray's replacement. Hunt is resigning from the Pardons and Paroles Board effective May 15, and Perdue is appointing Rep. Barnard to fill Hunt's board seat. Rep. Barnard's appointment will be effective on May 15 and expires on December 31, 2010.
"Albert has left a lasting legacy at DJJ, and I am very thankful that Garland has agreed to step into this important role," Governor Perdue said. "Terry has been a faithful and respected public servant in the legislature, including his service as Chairman of the House State Institutions and Property Committee. By agreeing to serve the remainder of Garland's term, he has ensured that the Board will not have its work disrupted during this transition period."
Murray was sworn in as Commissioner of the Department of Juvenile Justice in 2004. Murray began his service to troubled youth in his native state of Tennessee, including being appointed to assistant commissioner of juvenile services for the state of Tennessee. He was later appointed as the first commissioner of the newly created Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority and he also served as Deputy Commissioner of Programs for the Alabama Department of Corrections.
Murray has a wife, Connie, and two adult daughters, Andrea and Camille.