Ep 8. Inside Utah State Prison

Inside Utah State Prison, which aired as the eighth episode of Lockup's first season, takes viewers on a journey into one of the most secure and challenging correctional facilities in the United States. Located in Draper, Utah, this prison houses approximately 4,000 inmates, many of whom have committed violent crimes.

The episode starts with a tour of the prison led by Officer Ken White, who has worked at the prison for over three decades. Officer White explains the prison's strict rules and procedures, including the use of segregation units for inmates who pose a threat to other prisoners or staff. We also see the prison's Security Threat Group (STG) unit, where gang members are housed separately from the general population.

Throughout the episode, we meet several inmates who share their experiences of life in prison. One of them is a man named Carl, who has been incarcerated for over 20 years for armed robbery and kidnapping. Carl talks about the challenges of being separated from his family and loved ones, and how he copes with the isolation and loneliness of prison life.

Another inmate, a young man named Jeremy, is serving time for drug possession. Jeremy talks about his regrets and the mistakes he made that led to his incarceration. He also shares his hopes for the future and his plans to turn his life around after his release.

One of the most compelling segments of the episode is an interview with a former prison gang member who has since turned his life around. He talks about the violence and fear that permeated his life inside the prison, and how he eventually realized that he needed to change his ways if he ever hoped to get out.

Overall, Inside Utah State Prison is a fascinating look inside a challenging and complex correctional facility. Through interviews with staff and inmates, viewers get a glimpse of what life is like for those living behind bars, and the struggles they face on a daily basis. Whether you are interested in criminal justice or simply curious about life inside a prison, this episode is sure to captivate and inform.