Summary
Highlights
Greg Ulley, convicted at 15 for murdering his parents, was the youngest person in Indiana to be sentenced as an adult, directly placed into the adult population. He describes the prison environment as 'ugly' and 'sick,' recalling how others tried to exploit his youth, underscoring the dangers young inmates face without separation.
17-year-olds Aaron Gabriel and Harrison Shephard are processed into Wabash, becoming part of the nearly 10,000 minors nationwide held in adult facilities. Their initial reactions range from nervousness to bravado, reflecting the daunting reality of their new environment.
The Wabash Valley Correctional Facility, a maximum-security prison in Southwest Indiana, houses over 2100 prisoners, including a special unit for 53 juveniles sentenced as adults. These young inmates, some as young as 15, face overwhelming sentences and a harsh reality, often feeling misunderstood and judged for their past actions.
At 15 years old, Colt Lundy began a 30-year sentence for conspiracy to commit murder in the shooting death of his stepfather. Despite his crime, he feels misrepresented and struggles to accept his prison reality, lamenting the loss of freedom and the grim environment. He is separated from adult prisoners but acknowledges the pervasive danger within prison walls, even amongst the young inmates.
Miles Folsome, then 16, was sentenced to 36 years for felony robbery and criminal confinement. Overwhelmed by his sentence, he attempted suicide in jail. However, in Wabash, he transformed, becoming a high-performing student, earning his GED, and tutoring other young inmates, demonstrating a commitment to change despite his past.
Robert Beer, 18, is serving a 2-year sentence for battery and threatening a police officer. His history is marked by early aggression and a family deeply entrenched in the correctional system, with multiple relatives incarcerated. His father died violently in front of him, exacerbating a cycle of trouble for Beer since childhood.
Experts and former inmates question the appropriateness of incarcerating juveniles in adult facilities, highlighting concerns about their vulnerability, developmental stage, and the negative learning environment. The focus often shifts from rehabilitation to survival, impacting their long-term prospects.
Michael Stanley and Aurelius Woods, both serving three-year sentences for robbery, are friends and cellmates in the juvenile block, facing eventual transfer to the adult population. They express mutual support and concern for each other as they anticipate this transition.
Paul Gingerich, 12, was sentenced to 25 years for his role in Colt Lundy's stepfather's murder. Due to his age, he was placed in a juvenile facility, Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility, a maximum-security prison for minors, sparking a legal battle for his appeal and permanent placement in the juvenile system.
Michael Stanley and Alexander Ranken, both 18, transition from the juvenile unit to an adult cell block of 200 adults within Wabash. Prison staff note that new transfers often mask fear with bravado, illustrating the psychological toll of this move.
Paul Gingerich and his lawyer, Monica Foster, continue to appeal his adult sentence, arguing for his placement in the juvenile system where he is thriving academically and emotionally. Paul reflects on his growth and maturity since his incarceration, acknowledging the impact of his past actions.
Monica Foster explains to Paul the legal arguments for his appeal, including his competence at trial, inadequate preparation time for his defense, and the juvenile court judge's failure to gather his social history. The core argument is to keep Paul within the juvenile system due to his age and developmental stage.
Colt and Miles discuss the importance of external connections and maintaining a positive mindset. While Miles communicates with people globally, Colt finds visits painful reminders of the outside world. They both highlight the value of genuine support in navigating prison life.
Miles believes his long sentence, though harsh, forced a mental shift, unlike shorter sentences that might not prompt real change. He now aims for a productive life, recognizing his growth and questioning why he shouldn't be allowed to contribute to society.
Colt expresses fears about his past hindering his future success, particularly in professions like mentoring troubled youth. He discusses his journey of self-improvement through reading and exercise, influenced by Miles, emphasizing the importance of staying busy and purposeful to avoid despair.
Colt discusses his struggle to understand the 'why' behind his crime, feeling it came 'out of the blue.' He attributes his past actions to a lack of individual thought and succumbing to peer influence, recognizing the danger of simply 'going with the flow.'
Colt Lundy prepares for his transfer from Wabash Valley. Despite his youth, he's spent over four years at the facility. He expresses mixed feelings including hope for new opportunities at his new camp, CIC, while leaving behind friendships including Miles.
Colt says an emotional goodbye to Miles, his cellmate and close friend, symbolizing the end of a significant chapter in his incarceration. They vow to stay in touch, highlighting a bond forged in adversity, akin to a brotherhood.
Miles reflects on Colt's departure, acknowledging the void left but expressing hope for their continued connection. He notes the positive improvements in another young inmate, Levi Park, whom he and Colt have mentored, highlighting their impact on others.
Colt is transferred to CIC, a more laid-back facility, emphasizing the drive as a chance to see the world outside prison walls. His counselor praises his proactive planning and adaptability, highlighting his ability to thrive despite his circumstances.
Miles prepares for his college graduation, seeing it not as an end but a 'waypoint' in his mission to help others. He reflects on his journey to higher education and the profound impact of external support, particularly from pen pals, in keeping him grounded and hopeful.