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Fort Madison Today
By the People, for the People
Iowa State Penitentiary Warden Resigns Amid Challenges
Mark Foreman steps down after less than a year as warden, amid staff shortages and inmate violence
Published on Feb. 19, 2026
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The Iowa Department of Corrections has confirmed the resignation of Mark Foreman as warden of the Iowa State Penitentiary in Fort Madison. Foreman's resignation took effect on Friday, and the department has named Michelle Waddle as Interim Warden until further notice. Foreman was appointed warden in May 2025 and took on the role in June, amid ongoing challenges at the prison including staff shortages and a rise in inmate assaults on employees.
Why it matters
The resignation of the warden at the Iowa State Penitentiary comes at a critical time, as the facility has faced significant staffing and security issues. Foreman's departure raises questions about the prison's ability to maintain safe and secure operations, and the broader challenges facing the state's correctional system.
The details
According to an email from Iowa DOC Chief of Staff Paul Cornelius, Foreman's resignation took effect on Friday. Rumors have circulated that Foreman was placed on administrative leave nine days before stepping down and was escorted from the facility, but these reports have not been confirmed. Foreman was appointed warden in May 2025 and formally assumed the role in June, taking on the leadership post amid ongoing challenges at the prison, including staff shortages and a rise in inmate assaults on employees. Last month, two staff members were injured in near-fatal attacks.
- Foreman was appointed warden in May 2025.
- Foreman formally assumed the warden role in June 2025.
- Foreman's resignation took effect on Friday, February 17, 2026.
The players
Mark Foreman
The former warden of the Iowa State Penitentiary in Fort Madison, who resigned from his position on February 17, 2026.
Michelle Waddle
The Interim Warden of the Iowa State Penitentiary, appointed by the Iowa Department of Corrections after Foreman's resignation.
Paul Cornelius
The Chief of Staff for the Iowa Department of Corrections, who confirmed Foreman's resignation in an email.
What’s next
The Iowa Department of Corrections has not yet announced a timeline for selecting a permanent replacement for the warden position at the Iowa State Penitentiary.
The takeaway
Foreman's resignation as warden of the Iowa State Penitentiary highlights the ongoing challenges facing the state's correctional system, including staffing shortages and inmate violence. The Department of Corrections will need to act quickly to find a permanent replacement and address these critical issues to ensure the safety and security of both inmates and staff.
