Ep 4. Hackensack, NJ: Mama's New Boy

In this episode of Lockup season 18, viewers are transported to the Bergen County Jail in Hackensack, New Jersey where they are introduced to a new inmate who has never been incarcerated before. The focus of the episode is not only on this new inmate, but also on some of the challenges that come with being incarcerated for a long period of time.

The new inmate in question is a young man named Grady, who is in jail for stealing a car. Throughout the episode, viewers witness Grady struggling to come to grips with the reality of being locked up and separated from his family. The young man is already dealing with some physical health issues that make his time behind bars even more difficult. As he tries to find his footing in an unfamiliar environment, the audience gets to see how he copes with his situation, what he misses most about being outside, and how he interacts with his fellow inmates.

One of the things that becomes clear as the episode progresses is the intense bond that can form between inmates in prison. Many of those interviewed by the Lockup crew talk about the brotherhood that comes from being locked up together and how that connection can help them get through even the toughest times. Grady is no exception to this, and viewers can see how he starts to build relationships with other inmates, including a man who has been in jail for over 20 years.

Throughout the episode, the audience also gets to see some of the challenges that come with being a correctional officer in a jail like Hackensack. Some of the officers share their experiences dealing with difficult inmates, including one who has a history of violence. The officers are responsible for not only maintaining order and ensuring the safety of everyone in the jail, but also for helping inmates like Grady who may be struggling to cope with incarceration.

One of the most touching moments of the episode comes when Grady's mother comes to visit him in jail. The two have a heartwarming conversation where Grady tells his mother how much he misses her and how he wishes he could be there for her. As the two speak, viewers can see the pain and guilt on Grady's face, as he realizes how his actions have hurt the people he loves. For many viewers, this may be one of the most relatable moments of the episode, as it drives home the fact that the people in jail are not just criminals, but are also family members, friends, and loved ones.

Overall, Lockup season 18 episode 4 delivers a poignant look at what life is like inside the Bergen County Jail. While the focus is on Grady and his experiences, the show does a great job of highlighting the challenges and realities that come with being incarcerated for long periods of time. Viewers will come away from the episode with a greater understanding of what it's like to be locked up, as well as a newfound appreciation for the men and women who work in correctional facilities across the country.