LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Louisville Metro Department of Corrections has its next director. Mayor Greg Fischer appointed Lt. Col. Jerry Collins to replace Dwayne Clark. 

Collins is currently jail commander of the Clark County Sheriff’s office. He’s a U.S. Army veteran who previously worked for LMDC in several roles before retiring in October 2021. He joined LMDC as a correctional officer in 2000 and was a correctional major overseeing operations and training when he retired.

In a statement, Fischer said, “Jerry has the vast experience and skill set to lead the Corrections staff. He knows our community, he knows LMDC, having worked his way up through every position there, and is considered an innovative thinker with an extensive background in training. He has both the skills and the passion needed in this time of challenge.”

Collins says he looks forward to the opportunity to “come home” and serve as the new director.

“I know and value the team at Metro Corrections, and I’m well aware of challenges facing jail officers and employees here and across our nation right now,” Collins said in a statement. “I am confident that we can overcome those challenges and build on the team’s good work and commitment to sound, compassionate correctional care. I appreciate Mayor Fischer’s support, and I’m eager to get to work!”

The mayor’s office said Collins helped the jail earn accreditations from the American Corrections Association and the National Commission on Correctional Health Care.

Current director Clark retires from LMDC next month. LMDC has been under scrutiny because of seven deaths since November. Metro Council passed a “no confidence” resolution of Clark in February. He joined LMDC in 2004.