Ep 5. Inside Wabash

Inside Wabash is the fifth episode of the first season of the documentary series Lockup. The episode explores the life of inmates at the Wabash Valley Correctional Facility, a maximum-security prison in Indiana.

As the episode begins, viewers catch a glimpse of the prison's razor wire fences and heavy metal gates. Inside, the inmates are subjected to a strict routine and a lack of freedom. The episode explores the different stories of several inmates and the challenges they face while behind bars.

One of the inmates featured is 25-year-old Vic, who is serving a 33-year sentence for murder. He describes his life before prison, where he grew up in a tough neighborhood surrounded by violence and drugs. He explains that he killed someone in self-defense and his sentence was a result of a plea bargain. Vic reflects on the difficulty of spending the rest of his youth incarcerated and his hopes for early release.

Another inmate featured is Damon, who is serving a life sentence for murder. Damon admits to his crime, but also expresses remorse and a desire to make things right. He finds solace in his religion and spends time studying the Bible. Damon shares his love for his family and hopes to make amends with the victim's family.

The episode also touches on the challenges of prison life, including the violence that can erupt at any time. One inmate recounts a brutal attack that left him with a broken jaw and several teeth knocked out. The inmates are constantly on alert, knowing that any dispute, no matter how minor, can escalate into a dangerous altercation.

Throughout the episode, prison staff discuss their efforts to maintain order and provide the inmates with opportunities for education and job training. The staff are aware of the challenges they face and the dangers of working with inmates who are often unpredictable and violent.

In addition to the stories of individual inmates, the episode provides a glimpse into the everyday life of a maximum-security prison. The prison is comprised of several cell blocks, each housing hundreds of inmates. The cells are small and cramped, with little room for personal belongings. Inmates line up for meals and are escorted to their assigned work assignments throughout the day.

As the episode concludes, viewers are left with a sense of the difficulty of life behind bars. The inmates face long sentences and a lack of freedom, but they are also forced to confront the harsh realities of violence and danger inside the prison walls. Despite the challenges, some of the inmates find meaning and purpose behind bars, hoping to one day rejoin society and make a positive impact.

Overall, Inside Wabash provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of maximum-security prisons and the challenges of life behind bars. The episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of prison reform and the need to provide inmates with meaningful opportunities for education and rehabilitation.