GEO Group shares jump as stock rallies while employee shooting sparks calls for oversight

The GEO Group, a private‑prison operator listed on the NYSE, saw its shares surge 65.9% over the past 12 weeks, earning a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) and an average broker recommendation of #1 (Strong Buy). Analysts cited strong price momentum and improving fundamentals amid broader interest in the sector.

Separately, a GEO Group employee at an Aurora ICE processing center was charged with assault after allegedly shooting a protester in the foot. The 42‑year‑old employee, Brandon Booth, faces multiple felony counts, and the incident has renewed calls for congressional oversight of private‑prison firms. GEO Group placed the employee on unpaid administrative leave and pledged cooperation with law enforcement.