Albert
During his three decades of incarceration, Albert became a leader among his peers. He earned a welding degree, taught welding classes, and was a hospice volunteer for 20 years. The 58-year-old says it was rewarding to “show others compassion in a place like prison.”
Louis
Louis, a 10/6 lifer, was incarcerated for more than five decades after being told he would only spend 10 and a half years in prison. Now 74, he is grateful to finally have his freedom, and is a reminder that other men and women who could be released are growing old in prison.
Chris
Chris was given a life sentence at the age of 33, but earned his second chance after 23 years. While in prison, he earned carpentry certifications but is most proud of overcoming the addictions that sent him to prison decades ago.
Darrin
Darrin, 59, was a promising football star in New Orleans prior to his incarceration in 1993. During his three decades of incarceration he became a mentor to other long-serving and younger men – helping them to better themselves inside prison.
Douglas
Douglas was given a second chance after his 99 year sentence was commuted. Known as “Red” for his hair color, he became a skilled electrician, welder, and plumber while in prison and hopes to use those skills to build a career.
John
John spent nearly 40 years in prison before earning his second chance through resentencing. While incarcerated, he earned his GED and certifications for carpentry and CPR. “It’s definitely not 1985 anymore,” he said, “but being free makes me feel young again.”
Darwin
Darwin was 18 years old when he was given a life sentence. During his nearly three decades in prison, he earned a bachelor’s degree and multiple HVAC certifications to become a mentor in the vocational program. Now 46, he is excited to move to Georgia to be with his family and use his skills to build a career.
Gregory
Gregory, also known as “Mack,” grew up in Tennessee. He was given a life sentence 25 years ago. While incarcerated, he exemplified his home state’s volunteer mentality as he tutored and mentored others to while leading by example.
Paul
Paul was given a life sentence in 1981 at the age of 22. After 43 years, he received his second chance. For the past few years, Paul worked as a caretaker at the warden’s residence. In addition to maintaining the property, Paul would often take care of the warden’s dog Louie. “I’m going to miss that dog,” he said.
Harry
After 34 years in prison, Harry was granted parole after his life sentence was commuted by the governor. While at Angola, he learned how to care for livestock and was a fixture with the prison rodeo’s Rough Riders group. Thankful for his second chance, he can’t wait to saddle up as a free man.
Chad
Chad spent more than half of his life in prison after receiving a life sentence in 1998. Over 25 years later, he said he is completely awed by the changes he is seeing in the world. “I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to fully catch up on what I missed,” he said, “but at least I know I won’t have to miss anything else.”
Timothy
During his 37 years in prison, Timothy became a skilled worker, earning a variety of trade certifications in carpentry, welding, and heavy equipment. “When I was 19, I made a lot of bad decisions,” he said, “but I’ve learned to be a better man and I’m proud of who I’ve become.” Now 56, he is ready to showcase his skills and growth he has obtained.
