Atlanta’s fight against corruption continues with Judge Blackett leading internal investigations and oversight

Atlanta, Georgia – Mayor Andre Dickens announced the nomination of Judge LaDawn “LBJ” Blackett as the Interim Inspector General for the City of Atlanta in a major step toward increasing openness and ethical behavior.

The decision reflects the resignation of the former Inspector General, which calls for a quick change to preserve the integrity of city activities. Effective Monday, March 3, 2025, Judge Blackett—who brings almost two decades of legal and political experience—will take on her new duties.

Mayor Dickens highlighted the significance of this appointment in his dedication to maintain the best ethical standards within the municipal government.

“I am committed to ensuring we uphold the highest ethics in City government, which is why I made it a point to make the fourth pillar of my admiration creating an Ethical and Effective government and continue to focus on providing the best service to our employees,” said Mayor Andre Dickens.

“I have championed the Office of the Inspector General and look forward to working with Judge Blackett and the Office to strengthen how internal investigations are handled in the future.”

Appointed immediately by the Mayor based on Sec. 2-184 of the Municipal Code of Atlanta, the Interim Inspector General plays a vital role in maintaining the city’s free from operational waste and corruption. The nomination of Judge Blackett is considered as a strategic step to improve the city’s initiatives in building a moral government structure.

“Keeping the City of Atlanta free from waste and corruption is crucial for preserving the best possible quality of life for its residents and businesses. I’m excited to support the City of Atlanta’s ethical government framework and bring my diverse experiences to ensure that we are collaborative, positive and transparent,” said Judge Blackett.

Despite her temporary status in this role, Judge Blackett is determined to make a significant impact. She told Mayor Dickens that although she plans to stabilize the office during her Interim Inspector General term, she does not want to seek the permanent post of Inspector General.

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The career of Judge Blackett is distinguished by some notable successes and responsibilities. As a proud graduate of Tulane Law School and Tennessee State University, she began her legal career working for the Fulton County District Attorney’s office. She climbed fast to become the first Director of the Community Prosecution unit and Chief Senior Assistant District Attorney. After her public service, she started The LBJ Law Group, LLC, focusing in intellectual property and high-profile criminal defense cases.

Her dedication to public service goes beyond her professional roles. From 2013 to 2016, Judge Blackett represented Atlanta and South Fulton among other areas as a Georgia State Representative for House District 62. After the City of South Fulton was founded in 2018, she also became a charter member and City Solicator.

Blackett’s contributions to community and service have been recognized with several awards, including the Innovator in Technology award for her creative use of technology in South Fulton court procedures and ranking among Atlanta Business Chronicle’s top 40 under 40 in 2018.

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Atlanta embraces this new chapter in its quest of ethical government, and the people are awaiting to see how Judge Blackett will direct the Office of the Inspector General toward with more responsibility and integrity.

To learn more about the City of Atlanta Office of the Inspector General, click here.