Hamm Steps Down, Lovelace Takes Helm at Alabama Corrections

0:00It's April 28th, I'm Cory with the story, and this is Birmingham News Today, your AI-powered local news. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announced that John Ham is stepping down as Commissioner of the Department of Corrections. Ham's led the department since January 2022, after more than 30 years in law enforcement, she's tapped Greg Lovelace, a seasoned official, to step in. Ham's time in charge saw real moves forward, like pushing construction on two new men's cousins, ramping up hiring and keeping corrections officers, on board, and cracking down harder on rules for staff and inmates. Ivey gave Ham props for those gains, but stressed their still work ahead. Ham called the gig one of his biggest career honors, thanks to her support and the team. Lovelace echoed that, stressing steady progress through big projects. Lovelace, right now the Chief Deputy Commissioner, packs over 30 years in the field. He's handled prison ops, maintenance, and builds, including the new governor Kay Ivey correctional complex.

1:00He takes the helm May 1st, 2026, setting up seamless handoff as they wrap facilities and eye the next governor's term.