Beyond Scared Straight
Observing programs for troubled teens in which inmates reveal the realities of prison life in the hope of deterring them from a life of crime.
Overview
Observing programs for troubled teens in which inmates reveal the realities of prison life in the hope of deterring them from a life of crime.
Episodes
1. Chowchilla
Inmates at the Valley State Prison for Women use a combination of confrontation, information, and communication to try to keep five young girls from becoming convicts.
2. Jessup
Five teens learn the harsh realities of prison life at the Maryland Correctional Institution at Jessup, where dozens of menacing inmates, including convicted murderers, surround the kids and taunt them. The teens include Steve, 17, who likes the "outlaw" life; Brandon, 17, who's been arrested five times; Dion, who admits to selling drugs; and Sahn, 13, who steals polo shirts because he's got a "passion for fashion.
3. Corcoran
Hardened criminals at the California prison that is home to Charles Manson give teens a taste of life on the yard, where any prisoner can approach the kids and give them a feel for the dangers of prison life. The teens include Stephen, 16, a violent youth who threatens his teachers; Josh and Armando, 16, twin brothers and gang members; Elijha, 15, a car thief; and Abraham, 16, who thinks that going to jail is no big deal.
