Ep 6. Nothing But Time

In Lockup: Raw season 4 episode 6, titled "Nothing But Time," viewers are taken to the Western Youth Institution in Morganton, North Carolina. This youth detention center holds some of the state's most violent and troubled teenage offenders.

The episode starts with an introduction to the facility and the young inmates incarcerated there. We meet Wayne, a 19-year-old inmate who has already served three years of his 25-year sentence. Wayne's case manager, Mr. Smith, discusses the challenges he faces while working with Wayne, who has a history of disciplinary issues and aggressive behavior. Wayne talks about the struggles he faces being confined and the longing he has for freedom.

Next, the show focuses on the gang activity within the facility. The inmates detail how gangs are an intricate part of prison life, and members have to be tough to survive. We meet Josh, a 17-year-old who is serving time for robbery. Josh is known to have ties to one of the most significant gangs in the prison and is often singled out by other inmates because of it.

The prison's tight security measures are put on display when the episode delves into the lockdown procedures. A few inmates talk about how lockdowns are essential to maintain order and security if an incident occurs.

Another significant theme in the episode is the relationship between the guards and inmates. The show portrays the exchange between the two, highlighting the tension and the respect both parties have for each other. The inmates explain that the guards' role is to keep them safe, and they rely on them for protection. At the same time, guards recognize that they are dealing with troubled young adults, and their job is to help rehabilitate them.

We also get a glimpse into the rehabilitation programs that the prison provides; the episode showcases a music therapy sitting. We see how music is an excellent way to express emotions and connect individuals from different backgrounds. The program is said to have a positive impact on the inmates, and they feel that it provides them with an opportunity to express themselves creatively.

The episode concludes by painting a picture of life in prison and the toll it can take on an individual. In many ways, the prison becomes the inmate's universe, and they spend years of their life there. For some young offenders, this is all they know; they have grown up in this system and are ill-prepared for life outside of it. The narrative suggests that the system should focus more on rehabilitation and not just punishment.

Lockup: Raw season 4, episode 6, "Nothing But Time," provides viewers with an inside look into the Western Youth Institution, exploring gang activity, lockdowns, rehabilitation programs, and more. While the show doesn't necessarily offer any solutions to the problems within the prison system, it does offer a glimpse into life behind bars and the challenges faced by all involved.