I hit juvenile prison at 15 years old and did 7 months inside. I didn't find it hard as i was crazy at the time. But i met some great role model's that convinced me crime isn't the way. After i got out i had to find something to do 18 hours a day and i started working in a kitchen and did 4 years apprenticeship to become a qualified chef .And worked in Europe and China and I'll be 45 in December and i haven't been in trouble since i got out. I earned my way in life.
Same here, went away at 17 and got out at 20..not near as much time you’ve done but what we share in common is that I too have not been in trouble since, and I’m 32 years young
This reporter is phenomenal. I learn so much from watching his videos. He asks empathetic and important questions and he he makes everyone feel comfortable.
HA HA HA! Yes, you are so right. I'm just laughing because I imagined someone going into prison like this and not treating the prisoners with dignity and respect. Now _THAT_ would be a good show!
No this is very English we do not judge by colour, the Royal family knighted him this i why he is a Sir, there many like him in Britain that do good work including the Royal family they are not Political neither do they judge,many black people work at the Royal households, and guards in the beautiful red Uniforms. The Royals never judge as anyone of colour.
@@Katie-mw7pd trust me, it gets deep! I was grooming his st grand daughter since she was 12 or 15 something like that, then he married her while she had a boyfriend her age when she was legal age, she told her boyfriend it’s been going of when she was little. The boyfriend ended up ki!!ing her and himself over it. Look it up on UA-cam. Morgan freeman and his granddaughter
This guy is an amazing interviewer. His genuineness allows him to connect with nearly anyone. The way he interacts with people is incredible- with empathy and respect and a true interest in each person and a regard for their dignity. What's amazing is that as much as this documentary revealed I still have so many questions. I think a well-done piece like this not only teaches many things but peaks a curiosity that may have not existed in one's mine prior.
Absolutely Karen!! The Queen of England actually knighted him, "Sir Trevor McDonald" he is one of England's best journalists' investigators and one of the only black men I know of with blue eyes!!!!
This was one of the best prison documentaries i ever seen! I have seen a lot too. It provided a very laid back view into the life and mindset of the prisoners. Amazing work!
Sir Trevor McDonald handled these interviews like a boss. There is a wealth of education on human behaviour and the correlation to childhood psychology.
Hehehe 😂 I was just thinking that I appreciate it when they are honest about the crimes they committed and the punishments they will ultimately receive.
I disagree. I don’t believe the woman who claims she set a fire that killed 6 people so she could run away when they all came outside. It’s illogical. The same way she sneaked and set the fire, she could’ve just run away. Plus a fire would get attention from neighbors and passers-by and wouldn’t make a good scenario for running away. She just killed those people.
Probably the very best prison documentary ever done. Sir McDonald's manner draws out the stories of the people who made very wrong decisions in their journey through life.
I absolutely love listening to Sir Trevor McDonald speak and really listen to a person's story. They simply don't make 'em like you anymore sir. You are the embodiment of what it means to have real respect and empathy for all human beings without passing even the finest sliver of judgement on them. Thank you for sharing all the knowledge you gather by doing these documentaries and for setting the example you have for all who watch.
Very well said. . . .I agree 💯% with all you said. This man is just as you say and no they don’t make them like Sir Trever McDonald anymore. The way he speaks so kindly, respectful, interested to know their stories really listened to everyone he spoke too with empathy & patience, can tell he truly cares regardless what put these prisoners in Prison Can tell Sir McDonald is very Humble and Blessed both w/ God & in his life. . . God Bless 🙏🛐🙏 MuchLove from Santa Clarita, California - Angel 🌹♥️
There’s so much failure in the systems, so many from ones that need help, mental, addiction, etc. it’s all so wrong. In one second, anyone’s life will change, that’s a creepy, threatening thought of just that second... It’s so sad that some choose to go pack to prison because that’s their home feel... that speaks in loud volumes, that’s emptiness beyond, pretty unreal of how that emptiness could possibly feel like, then some, they hate all, it’s so unreal, the system is so messed up.
ive watched this a few times, this is one of the best prison docs there is. i wish Trevor would do an entire series inside prisons. He's great and his few episodes are like how LockUp used to be in it's early days with John Siegenthaler... inside prisons, interviewing prisoners, as opposed to focusing on guards who act for cameras, or being inside jails, creating a story with a beginning middle and end. Louis Theroux has a season or 2 of prison docs that are really good.
Now we have movies like 2,000 Mules in theaters. Literally a movie trying to convince the country that a made up event happened, and they believe it. It doesn't get much worse than that.
I came to comment about him and how he is the most eloquent and amazing interviewer Ive ever seen and he has such a genuinely non-judge mental sweet and innocent way about him.
What a profound documentary! every subject/ convict's soul ripped open and bared for all to perceive and taste the rawness of humanity by an absolutely brilliant interviewer.
I go to work every day, feeling grateful that I get a chance to, and grateful that I have a job. When some would complain about anything, I would always say…somewhere someone has it worse than you, be thankful.
I thought I was strange for that exact reason. Nice to see! Gaining a new perspective to maintain a grateful position is actually a pretty healthy exercise.
The man that killed at 13 is so well spoken and articulate. Really such a shame that he made that choice but I do not forget the victims. How horrible bc they said they didn’t want their grass mowed! So senseless
@@rayanbe84 well if he ever gets out let him stay by you then. I don't want no killer staying by me regardless of what age they killed a killer is a killer and should be killed period!
@@rayanbe84 that’s not an excuse. Plenty of underdeveloped, impulsive brains refrain from killing effortlessly. You are a part of the problem. People like him who have killed young and were later released, have killed again.
@@rayanbe84 Exactly. I told another one,that the last thing developing,is the part where you understand consequenses. That happens at age 22-24. In a 15 year old it is a lot that is missing. And, wtf , a child that do such a crime,shouldnt one investigate what happend? I mean, there got to be something wrong. He needs of course jailtime. But he shouldnt have been put in ordinary jail before he was 18,meaning he should have been in juvenile prior. When they handle it like it was from 1700', not 2022, the price is even worse. If someone put a child like that, in a regular jail, in my country, it would be a riot that would be over until they changed it. Its sad seing science not being aknowledge in this area in several country's. I react stronger when it is usa, i KNOW they normally know more/better. But then again, look at what they do with abortion... It seems usa is going back in time ... And dont aknowledge science and facts in the procedure...
God Bless You Rob! 🙏❤😇 In the early 90's I was arrested one nite. I was put in a large cage that looked like it was for a large animal! It was sitting right in front of the front desk in the Police Station as you walked in! It was for a Domestic incident, which later a Judge dropped all the charges! The male cops were all "A" Holes to me! They even made me take a shower,, and one of the officers took the paper off the little window on the window of the door and watched! 😡 I would Never make it in a prison! It's just best to keep obeying the law! 👍🙏🙂
That seems like what would Be for most and unusual way to change your life around I hope you have found love also as I believe it is a main factor and turning your life around
Not excusing any of these inmates for their crimes, but what an amazing look into humanity itself. How each person searches for meaning and purpose even when confined to a cage for life. This prison is quite impressive - seems to be a model of a well-run establishment. I am shocked at the lack of chaos and violence among potentially seriously dangerous criminals. Amazing!!
Are you serious lol. Michigan City ISP is a freaking jungle. Indiana just keeps all that goes on in DOC behind that 30 foot wall. Maybe the women's prison but not ISP
@@NonBathingApe6969 Yeah I think I spoke too soon. I watched the rest of it and saw a little bit of a different perspective. I stand by the first half of my comment but agree I spoke too soon about the prison itself. 🤦🏼♀️
@@jamesharris203 I disagree, in that some of them may be but certainly not all. You can't judge the decisions one makes based on the lives they've lived. I draw the line with a lot of things but I don't think it's fair to call them all monsters.
@@karenmilford7809 I agree with you on this one. James Harris is what I like to call a stereotypical thinker. Judging people all in a group; there is a lot more to life than just black and white.
Some of these men seem like they find more purpose in jail than they did on the outside. I can admire that. It’s sad though that it took this terrible journey and others were harmed to reach this point.
@@james1795All you get out of this documentary (and the comments is the opportunity to correct someone’s words) - that is almost as bad as me commenting about you commenting about someone’s choice of words😂😂😂.
The barbershop job is a sweet assignment in prison. Nobody's gonna mess with you, and you have a solid re-entry career opportunity if you ever get paroled.
I can’t get past the guy that committed a double homicide at 13. The heart breaks for all involved. Two people lost their lives over a lawn. Just a kid and he destroyed his life over that so he basically killed three people (including himself) before he was old enough to even understand the meaning of that
@@bunnybubson1665 they don’t understand the nuances and consequences of it though. They don’t have the mental capacity to fully understand what they are doing - there’s a reason you aren’t tried as an adult until later on now.
The program with the pets should most definitely be in every state. It’s not just a sense of purpose but the companionship it holds with an individual. It can help with anxiety, depression, trauma everything
@WoodysOpinion101 it's better than being in a shelter with no human interaction at all, the critters also get something out of this I assure you this is better than being in a shelter stuck in a cage alone they don't know they're in jail LOL they just know they have a person now someone to play with food to eat and a roof over their head and they're no longer in a shelter that's incredibly stressful for all animals, a shelter is a jail for animals..
Most news interviews kinda annoy me, a man loses his entire family in a house for "so tell me, how do you feel knowing you won't see your family again." Bro are you serious!
Teach your children impulse control and delayed gratification - this is exactly what a lot of this is- teaching patience is absolutely necessary esp with boys. I saw it in my son early on- with lots of hard work and teaching skills to deal with his frustration - he’s learned to be patient and THINK before he reacts. Once the mind is engaged in an adverse way it’s nearly impossible to change a persons mind. This is why people commit suicide as well.
This a great point that's not easy to put into words, as you've done. I love it! And completely agree. I mean, I don't have kids cuz my parents taught me this well. But if I ever do...🤣🤣 My pea brain will try to remember your phrasing...
I agree. You should do a TED talk on patience, impulse control, delayed gratification, and your actual experience with your son. Seriously, thank you for sharing.
@M SD I think it applies to some (very few) people's experience with suicide and/or suicidal thoughts but definitely not the majority. Every situation in life has many possible variables for each individual. I have to agree with you for the most part here. I feel like too often people view suicide from outside the window and immediately begin looking for an answer, an explanation that is almost tangible. People have this need to rationalize things in ways that they personally can understand. This leads them to list out minor life struggles that stacked up for the reason behind it. It's not at all that simple and that perspective can be quite patronizing, ostracizing, and degrading. There's not a day that passes without reminders of how neglected awareness and education of such subjects are.
The guy who committed his crimes at 13 is really well spoken, in different circumstances who knows how his life could have turned out, yes the crimes committed that day were terrible, really a sad situation all round.
He shouldn't even be in there. If I heard correctly he was an accomplice so idk if he did the actual murders. And no one under the age of 18 should be tired as an adult, just sick.
@@two-bit8502 true, but at 13 years of age, is a super long sentence really fair in the long run? In no way am I trying to downplay anything. At that age, kids don't always think of long term consequences like adults do. At that age, the brain is still developing.
@@two-bit8502 murder is unforgivable and 150 years is better than the death penalty, but does a 13 year old really deserve to be in prison for the rest of their life? There's probably more to the story than is told on camera.
At 2:57:10 This woman killed her three (3) month old son she should never be allow to get out of jail ever again, look at the way she smiles while telling the story of the way her son died. I wish her the worst life possible if this monster is to be released from prison.
I was touched by Cindy's story. So many women are in this, and every prison for just trying to get help. The final result was six people died, and no parole board will ever see past that. A woman who abused and lost custody of 2 children, then killed a third is going home, and her post-partum was taken into consideration. But Cindy had been repeatedly abused by her father, then in the home she burnt. I truly believe she never wanted to hurt anyone she was just trying to get anyone to listen and help.
All she had to do was run away, there was absolutely zero reason to set fire to the house. I know many women who were abused and they never took the life of another person, or even thought about taking the life of another person.
Like I said in a reply earlier this man, Sir Trever McDonald is definitely one extra special exceptional man the way he is so polite, up-close and personal with both men and women he truly cares to get to know them and their stories. And he’s respectful, doesn’t appear to be scared approaching inside their cells, he fits right in and they liked Sir McDonald (can tell he’s a very humble, blessed man very much a likable guy. . .) They were very open and welcoming to him. I think these prisoners are very lucky and blessed to be able to have sucha humble respectful man visit them on Deathrow and felt they needed it. They were so welcoming to Sir Trever McDonald and so open talking to him so freely in telling him their stories. Especially when he went back wanting to visit the man a 2nd time that murdered a woman, a mother of a 4-1/2 y.o.babygirl, he told him he went there to rape the mom (which he had denied yrs prior when caught) - he admitted to slicing both the lil girl and her mothers throats leaving them for dead. Damn, Soooo cold blooded it shook me to my core when I watched him telling Sir McDonald about it, WOW could see it did bother the murderer (I forget his name) he appeared to be a bit remorseful especially for the 4-1/2 y.o. girl while telling his gruesome story. Then Sir McDonald went to visit a woman’s prison. This is a great Documentary one of the best “Prison Documentaries” I’ve seen yet. This man Sir Trever McDonald is AWEsome. . . If by chance you’re on the fence about this Documentary I highly recommend you watch it, it’s Good. You all be safe outthere! God Bless 🙏🛐🙏 - Angel 🌹♥️🥰 MuchLove
Sir Trevor MacDonald did a wonderful job. He was polite, fair and respectful but you could tell he knew exactly who he was dealing w. Intelligent investigative journalism.
Yooo me and my boyfriend were literally just saying how did 750k people watch all 3 hours of this all the way through and how we couldn’t. Now I understand how. 😂😂😂
This woman who killed her baby son, refers to him as being " another life!". She's busier speaking about her attempted suicide, than killing her own child. She seems cold!
Like, she shows no remorse. All smiling that she will be getting out in two years! I don’t understand how she can live with herself. But I pray for her and her precious angel!
Well, she's right. She has a life and she took another life. Did you miss all the times she called him "her son"? Probably not. You just cherry picked and created a fake outrage. And you must have also missed that it had been about 15 YEARS! That's almost 5,500 days. Do you expect her to still be crying on the 5,500th day? That would make anyone go insane. She's coping with her crime the best she can. People like you are insufferable.
@@BornIn1500 Only 17 years for killing an innocent child? Women are privileged. A man would have gotten death sentence or atleast life in prison without parole.
@@akshay9602 I agree with that. There is absolutely discrimination against men in the justice system, but you'll never hear about it from the BS "equality" groups. My comment was referring to the armchair psychologists who think when someone says "the baby" or when they say "another life" it means they don't care about the person. Some people just speak differently. I've heard many loving parents refer to their child as "the boy" or "the kid" or "the baby".
This gentleman is the mist incredible interviewer I have ever listened to. So sad that any of this had to happen. The one that breaks my heart the most..the 3 month old baby. 😢
I really respect how the superintendent and interviewer both treat those men. They understand what they are capable of. But they treat and speak to them respectfully. And they seem to respect them as well.
I agree, but people should always remember that serious criminals are often capable of putting on a good front and some can lie really good. Getting taken in by the charm of a perpetrator leads to people siding against victims sometimes. "He's not capable of doing something like that"...
I'm glad the guy who killed the lady and her 4 y.o. girl told the truth and admitted what he'd done instead of sticking to his original story of not being guilty.
Yes, but to see one remorseful for what they've done allows you to view them as a human being and not just a monster. Unlike the ones who deny or make excuses for what they've done. They're simply monsters. He still deserves the death penalty, but I hope the victims family can find some sort of peace somewhere knowing the person responsible is remorseful also and not just dead. Hope that made sense.
Still can’t stand the guy - even once he admits the truth don’t forget his “ girlfriend “ in Germany, who he’s allowed to discuss “his pains with” compliments of us taxpayers.
This is the 2nd time I've watched this & Trevor McDonald is the most sensitive, compassionate interviewer I've ever come across. He manages to get to the point of the matter whilst remaining considerate of his interviewee's feelings. I absolutely adore his perfect diction & his vocabulary is beyond that of any other interviewer I've seen. Thank you for an excellent documentary.
Sir Trevor McDonald is an awesome Journalist. He treats the prisoners with respect and truly listened to their stories. I´m at aw how these prisoners can do such horrific crimes. Thank you Sir Trevor McDonald for sharing this video.
I've been to Rockville and it is absolutely so intimidating when you first get there. That's the place the literally made me decide right then that I was going to do whatever I had to to change my life and never go back.
Sir Trevor McDonald's voice is soothing, non-judgmental and caring. He shows the inmates respect, thus the inmates show him respect and thus allowing the incarcerated men, women to open up truthfully. Excellent documentary.
I am a former lifer who did 36 yrs in the California prison system. I can relate to these fellas about what emotions we have to deal with on a daily basis basis. Wish them all good luck on their journey of living in prison...is rough.
My husband did 20 at San Quentin. He was also LWOP. But the Stanford Law Clinic facilitated his release. Non-violent crimes, he went in under 3 strikes. We have a peaceful life and home. He goes back every Saturday to support chapel. God bless you, brother and your family
@2:30:40 the way that girl smiles while telling her story makes me feel she doesn't care. It might be a nervous reaction but it made my stomach hurt because an innocent man is now blind for something that should have never happened.
A lot of the women interviewed for this film smiled as they told their story. Could be the presence of cameras. Could be they are not used to being asked about their experience in a humane and caring manner. Could be embarrassment. Could be nerves. Could be that smiles are what gets them through each day. Prison being what it is, most of these women cannot possibly be as cheerful as they come off, so there must be something else going on behind those smiles.
Bill Toney was the police officer that Benjamin Ritchie killed. Officer Toney's younger brother was named Todd and he was in jail for drug charges and found out his brother had been killed in the line of duty on the news. The sheriff deputies in Hamilton Co IN allowed Todd to go to the funeral because some of them were in the police academy with Bill. The real loser this situation is their mother, she lost one son in the line of duty and lost another son to a drug overdose. Truly a sad situation.
One inmate explained losing a (loved one) cell mate perfectly. He said, you spend years getting to know someone. Spending everyday with them. Then one day they call their name take them down the hall and you know they are dead. When losing a loved one you spend everyday with them, then one day you don’t hear from them, then you have to imagine how they were tragically murdered or in pain in their last moments and you never see them again. I have no pity for those who have taken another life.
To see the difference between an inmate who has the ability to ‘escape’ via books vs. the one who’s options are reruns on TV and cleaning makes one take pause.
This host is excellent. I could listen to him speak about any topic. I am in the process of becoming a corrections officer and this documentary is very insightful. Thank you to everyone involved.
12:40 oh wow....those words really hit me hard. Idk if there could be a better way to make someone actually realize and put into perspective the situation that man and others like him are in...."I`ve been so long in prison it feels like I`ve never been free." Literally sent chills down my spine.
Your handle is hilarious Just next time please watch those split infinitives But no worries … top levels of grammar watchers find ourselves in endless puzzles
@@markkunkel8456 XD I sure do appreciate you find it funny usually it`s crazy ppl who use it as an argument to discredit me (which is funny in itself tho :D ) Split infinitives? Perhaps you can elaborate? Grammar has always been my weakness when it comes down to english (though at times it seems it`s actually better than the one some native speakers posses :D) and don`t worry no offense taken. In fact I can understand you more than well. When texting with my friends in my native language I just can`t help it but correct them when they make a mistake lol. edit: oh do you mean that bit that was " to actually to realize"? Or does it have to do something with the tense? I just read my comment and if it`s the former it was just an honest mistake cz I probably got distracted or smth.
Yup, that statement caught my attention too. I honestly feel so sorry for him and in my personal opinion, I feel that his sentence was WAY TOO harsh on him. For one, he was only 14 or 15 years of age when he and his friend committed the crime. People at this age their mind is still developing, still don't grasp the severity of their actions, very immature thinking, act on impulse without thinking first, their hormones are everywhere and run strictly on peer pressure. Yes, what they did was horrible, absolutely horrible. But we don't know the circumstances of how everything took place. How their neighbors reacted when they asked if they could mow their lawn. Life is hard and it's even harder when one is born a minority. They didn't go out and have murder on their mind, they were thinking "let's work, make money and go to the fair!!" I'm not excusing what they've done, not at all. I'm just saying the punishment does not fit the crime. I have seem way worse offenders who were adults, who have planned out thier crimes go FREE! So to see this....its disgusting. He should of been out by 20 or 23 years of age. Life isn't easy for ex-inmates by the way, even if he were to of gotten out by 20years, just getting employment alone would be punishment. He would be punishment for the rest of his life because people DON'T CARE about rehabilitation, people are A LOT MORE INTERESTED in PUNISHMENT.
As far as I`m aware the main reason for this in the US particularly is that prisons are private businesses meaning it makes a lot of ppl very rich. I do wonder when will we begin to deal with prevention and more importantly - rehabilitation as well.
I don’t understand how they’re letting people with attempted murder and murdering your own child out of jail after a few years or not at all like Casey Anthony. I just don’t understand how hurting a child or innocent people who can’t defend themselves get berly to no justice because they let these murderers out of jail.
@@leadimentoobrien1221 With this corrupt judicial system and politics, the death penalty is not an issue at all. Besides, a hard job until the end without the possibility of appeal is a good punishment.
Thank you for sharing this great documentary. You ask the right questions and your countenance is so calming. I’ve always been for the death penalty (eye for an eye) but I understand some of the circumstances that these offenders were on drugs, etc. Guess it boils down to bad choices. Unfortunately, that is the bane of mankind. I’m sorry for their circumstances and hope they turn to God for peace and forgiveness.
I really like the music in this show. It has character. It reminds me of a glum and gloomy day, and somehow it feels oddly nostalgic. It’s a nice change of pace from the usual cheesy attempts at metal/rap on shows like Hard Time. More introspective, too. 👏🏻
Thoughts and prayers with victims and those serving time for their actions. Deeply revealing documentary. Thank you for shedding light that there are indeed lives on death row, perhaps it can help the next generation make better decisions.
If her judgement is that terrible, then she's clearly doing ALLLL of the guys on the outside a huge favor; they're not normal why would a normal guy want that? Stupid is as stupid does I guess
Imagine having a heart big enough to understand that all ppl are deserving of love Not saying I would do it but I can understand how someone could It’s all about perspective
@@nicolivolcoff3516 I would consider that naive. If a woman thinks she can fix a man she is a glutton for punishment, and believe me they will try if these men ever get released. However I still believe low self esteem is the dominating factor in most cases.
After thinking about it, I have to concede that at least some prison wives are sadly simply celebrity-struck and do it for the notoriety. That appears to be a mental issue in its own right. Regardless, the great majority live to regret it I’m sure.
@@nicolivolcoff3516 not everyone deserves love and prison girlfriends/boyfriends are just a way to get money for your stay. It's incredibly ignorant and naive to think a prison relationship is a valid relationship.
Excellent presentation!! Just love listening to you. *Reminds me of James Earl Jones' voice. Extremely interesting delivery, and at the same time your interaction with the prisoners is so respectful. Thoroughly enjoyed this episode.
This is a good documentary. The obvious observation for me is that these people get haircuts, medical care, safe accommodations often with their own televisions, even pets. Everyone of these men have it better than any of their victims.
You say that, but look at it like this...if you committed a crime, albeit inadvertently, or whatever, you would want to be treated humanely while you serve your sentence and then return to society afterwards. The point is that you are paying for your actions and that is the point of the 'CORRECTION DEPARTMENT'...but do you want to be treated humanely or like an animal? Also, if you want to treat criminals like animals, how are they supposed to act like people again when they are released? We seem to expect perfect results from an imperfect system.
Great program. I spent 16 years in prison. I was a max prisoner at Spring Creek Correctional Center. Alaska sent me to Florence Arizona 1998 until I was released October 20, 2006. I was in For Escape and Armed robbery. I educated myself and tried over 400 fellow prisoners while in Arizona. After working a steady career, I became a firefighter in 2015, 2016 I'd become an Emergency Trauma Technician. My title was EMS Coordinator and I led my team to be the best Medevac crew in Alaska. I'm one of 22 firefighters in Alaska to hold an Offshore Firefighter Certificate. My orders come from 911 dispatch, Alaska State Troopers and Alaska Homeland Security. I've saved many lives driving an ambulance and my calls are all documented 911 calls.
I walked the yard with Alaska's worst prisoners. Serial Killers, kids who grew up in the system. I was in the Alaska system from 1973 to 2017. A ward of the State of Alaska for 44 years.
Oh wow. That Baer guy on death row with the cat. I remember him now. That was in my county about 15 miles from me. He murdered a young mother and her 4 year old daughter. Luckily the older daughter was at school. He was all drugged out on meth. A young family that was just moving into their house. The husband was in Florida moving the rest of their belongings. He was on the news for days and the whole thing was terrifying. He had slit their throats. It was a crime that still haunts me. It was a small town and I had just moved back to the state and was considering moving to that town when it happened. It was such a random brutal sickening crime. He got life instead of the death penalty. I believe the family requested it.
@@Jayskiallthewayski I know he got the appeal but the Judge could have reaffirmed the sentence. He was quoted in the paper saying he sentenced him to 2 life sentences without parole because it is what the family wanted. The husband testified at the sentencing.
As an European i often complain about the lenient sentences my country gives out. Often the punishment does not equal the crime, a life sentence in The Netherlands is only 25yrs which imho is not enough for the more heinous crimes. But seeing this documentary and especially the americans in this comment section i start to see that most of the EU believe in rehabilitation while the USA believes in punishment and i should count my blessings that we don't have it so bad where i'm from.
@@julien.4617 But death for a death isn't justice though. That's revenge. I'm not gonna tell you no one deserves law enforced death (But not as easy as the US seem to dish them out) or a life sentence. But a lot of these people, after many years *seem* to have been able to reflect on their crimes and learned from them and could be rehabilitated and with the proper care and precautions be send back to society. There's a reason why the US is in the ... top 5? of prisons per state, people inprisoned per year, etc. The laws the US have are, to me and many europeans, insane.
@@oddy5258 I believe turning a convicted , cold-blooded murderer loose on an unsuspecting society is not only insane, but heartless and irresponsible. There have been many instances where some "well-meaning" people have let convicted murderers out in parole. Guess what they went right back to their old ways and killed more people. Maybe you would like to put your life, your spouse's life, your children's lives and your friends' lives at the mercy of these wonderful convicted murderers. You may wish to bet your life on it, but I don't think most people do. They have expressed their inate opinion on the value of life and have judged themselves.
@@oddy5258 when someone hurts a child it's justice !!!! When someone kills an innocent person it's justice !! Justice the American way !! You call it revenge it's not revenge revenge would be doing the same thing to the person they hurt or killed !! It's is 💯 % justice !!
Most dont get the death penalty in the US. But they for sure do life in prison. Heck for stealing money from a job it's 3-7 years. Our system is mainly about money though. Those with good lawyers serve far less for higher crimes than those who are broke. Thankfully we do have drug court programs and things for non violent offenses that are committed due to an addiction.
I’m amazed the prisons let them make this - it proves the illogicality of so much of the system. The sentencing in American courts is ridiculously inconsistent.
Dude that killed his 5 kids. He tortured and raped his baby girls then drove around with them and wants Trevor to look at him. His weight blahh fu pos.
The interviewer is just amazing. Perfect tone, good and honest questions, still compassionate. The guy who did murder at age 13, should get a chance to better his life. You shouldnt lock up such young kids for life, inhuman state who does this.
First time seeing this presenter/interviewer and I'm amazed at his thoughtful questions and his ability to humanize these women who were locked up as monsters. I almost felt sorry for a few of them, until they described what they did with a smile on their face. Something so unsettling about their smiling while retelling their stories.
I like this guy, he is very respectful and calming to watch. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this. Thank you for bringing these people's personal stories to light. I feel kind of bad for the guy who killed when aged 13. I feel he should get a second chance at life outside, if he is mentally stable and only if he really is a changed man.
I looked into his case. He was with a 15 year old when they broke into the elderly ladies house & murdered her & her sister. The 15 year old was arrested a year later, immediately took a plea deal, denied having anything to do with the actual murders & testified against him. His lawyers told Him to plead guilty & because of his age he wouldn’t do too much time ( clearly they didn’t have his best interest at heart ) I believe he deserves a new trial. There’s no way to prove if only one of them did the murders ( or which one it was ) or both participated. The 15 year old served 2 years in prison.
The inmate that said "I did this one murder, that's it, that's all I did." Then he goes on to say " I killed 2 innocent people". Interesting how he thinks 2 people equals one murder. So cavalier in his statement.
The one thing I valued the most about Mr. Mcdonald while doing his interviews is never judged not one of those inmates. I myself support the death penalty, but after those inmates have received their judgments they are still humans at the end of it all and he treated them all with the up most respect! Well done!
We can never know whether he judged them. Keep in mind that he is very much in control of the character he is choosing to portray in this film. He certainly did a fine job befitting a gentleman with the honorific of "Sir."
This journalist is such a humane man who shows respect to every person he speaks with.
All be treated with respect irrespective of "today's life in Death Row in Prison". Above is my view and I am not imposing on you Par Ardua.
@@pssrinivass per ardua*
Well he's a SIR for a reason. He was knighted by Queen Lizzy for his service in journalism two decades ago
You don't know him, brick layer association, that's why he isn't bothered. Actor's, all this guy, or any, quote famous person.
Agenda, he is there for money
I hit juvenile prison at 15 years old and did 7 months inside.
I didn't find it hard as i was crazy at the time. But i met some great role model's that convinced me crime isn't the way. After i got out i had to find something to do 18 hours a day and i started working in a kitchen and did 4 years apprenticeship to become a qualified chef .And worked in Europe and China and I'll be 45 in December and i haven't been in trouble since i got out. I earned my way in life.
That is wonderful James, so proud of you 💖
Congrats! God bless you.
So proud of you! That’s amazing! G-d bless you!
Same here, went away at 17 and got out at 20..not near as much time you’ve done but what we share in common is that I too have not been in trouble since, and I’m 32 years young
🖤🙏🏽👏🏾Hats off to you!!
This reporter is phenomenal. I learn so much from watching his videos. He asks empathetic and important questions and he he makes everyone feel comfortable.
Incredibly sensitive and respectful interviewer, that's a true gentleman.
Trevor McDonald. I like him a lot. ❤❤ According to Siri, he’s now 84 years old.
@@kirstymoss9810 he asked a dude on death row where you see yourself down the line smh
Sir Trevor is an absolute gentleman.
He treats everyone with dignity and respect whether they deserve it or not.
That’s the measure of a man.
HA HA HA! Yes, you are so right. I'm just laughing because I imagined someone going into prison like this and not treating the prisoners with dignity and respect. Now _THAT_ would be a good show!
No this is very English we do not judge by colour, the Royal family knighted him this i why he is a Sir, there many like him in Britain that do good work including the Royal family they are not Political neither do they judge,many black people work at the Royal households, and guards in the beautiful red Uniforms. The Royals never judge as anyone of colour.
@@margothatcher8178 I’ve def seen a lot of otherwise
@@margothatcher8178 I think Megan 🤔 might disagree!
@@litneyloxan Rubbish!
Trevor is like Morgan Freeman, he's got that calming ability in his voice when he speaks to people
And Without the pedo tendency’s
@@RustyGraffitiReviewsdamn, you can’t just drop something like that and not tell us more
@@Katie-mw7pd trust me, it gets deep! I was grooming his st grand daughter since she was 12 or 15 something like that, then he married her while she had a boyfriend her age when she was legal age, she told her boyfriend it’s been going of when she was little. The boyfriend ended up ki!!ing her and himself over it. Look it up on UA-cam. Morgan freeman and his granddaughter
@@Katie-mw7pdlook up the tragic story of his granddaughter…
Exactly
This guy is an amazing interviewer. His genuineness allows him to connect with nearly anyone. The way he interacts with people is incredible- with empathy and respect and a true interest in each person and a regard for their dignity. What's amazing is that as much as this documentary revealed I still have so many questions. I think a well-done piece like this not only teaches many things but peaks a curiosity that may have not existed in one's mine prior.
Oops o
Yep
Yes, you almost feel like you're a better person for having watched him or it inspires you to be
Absolutely Karen!! The Queen of England actually knighted him, "Sir Trevor McDonald" he is one of England's best journalists' investigators and one of the only black men I know of with blue eyes!!!!
Sir Trevor Mcdonald was the Dean of my University. He is a great guy!
This was one of the best prison documentaries i ever seen! I have seen a lot too. It provided a very laid back view into the life and mindset of the prisoners. Amazing work!
Sir Trevor McDonald handled these interviews like a boss. There is a wealth of education on human behaviour and the correlation to childhood psychology.
It doesnt seem to have gotten in yet,does it? The science, the knowledge...
When putting a 13 year old in adult jail...
@@bezzerwizzer6448 Didn't he kill 2 women for $5? Is that the case?
@@stormy6454 no, wrong case.
Òojoj9jòò I joked Jon òk
Ò
Sir Trevor McDonald is a true living legend
I appreciate that they only showed inmates honest about their crimes. Amazing interviewer!
Hehehe 😂
I was just thinking that I appreciate it when they are honest about the crimes they committed and the punishments they will ultimately receive.
I agree, no one is blaming anyone else. So refreshing to hear.
I disagree. I don’t believe the woman who claims she set a fire that killed 6 people so she could run away when they all came outside. It’s illogical. The same way she sneaked and set the fire, she could’ve just run away. Plus a fire would get attention from neighbors and passers-by and wouldn’t make a good scenario for running away. She just killed those people.
Dude some of those men were lying and that was obvious. Lying about why they did it to make themselves look better.
Yeah it would only make us feel bad if they showed the innocent people. There are many.
Probably the very best prison documentary ever done. Sir McDonald's manner draws out the stories of the people who made very wrong decisions in their journey through life.
I'd have to agree I've watched it several times
Agree,prisoners very good like actors..for a documentary
I really gotta agree. This documentary is simply amazing. The music, the interview/er/s, the editing. Everything is just great
I absolutely love listening to Sir Trevor McDonald speak and really listen to a person's story. They simply don't make 'em like you anymore sir. You are the embodiment of what it means to have real respect and empathy for all human beings without passing even the finest sliver of judgement on them. Thank you for sharing all the knowledge you gather by doing these documentaries and for setting the example you have for all who watch.
Very well said. . . .I agree 💯% with all you said.
This man is just as you say and no they don’t make them like
Sir Trever McDonald anymore.
The way he speaks so kindly, respectful, interested to know their stories
really listened to everyone he spoke too with empathy & patience,
can tell he truly cares regardless what put these prisoners in Prison
Can tell Sir McDonald is very Humble and Blessed both w/ God & in his life. . .
God Bless 🙏🛐🙏
MuchLove from
Santa Clarita, California
- Angel 🌹♥️
I feel with him he seems truly effected.
Well stated❣️🙌
There’s so much failure in the systems, so many from ones that need help, mental, addiction, etc. it’s all so wrong. In one second, anyone’s life will change, that’s a creepy, threatening thought of just that second... It’s so sad that some choose to go pack to prison because that’s their home feel... that speaks in loud volumes, that’s emptiness beyond, pretty unreal of how that emptiness could possibly feel like, then some, they hate all, it’s so unreal, the system is so messed up.
Who cares if the man leave ? Let him go that was a complete waste of human life .
Sir Trevor McDonald should make more prison documentaries, he ask exactly those questions which we desire.
I'm sure he would IF he was alive. He passed away.
@@gdub2812 He did not ? he s 83
@@MJ-le1cg man I was fed BS info and I ate it. Thank you for correcting me
@@gdub2812 I'm sure he did, 5 years later in 2018... ua-cam.com/video/JGT2pwNO0yk/v-deo.html
Yeah he’s really good
He's such a gracious and respectful man...
i just don’t know how much
wow
Trevor is a good man
I've seen conficts react a lot different to interviewers. #respect
He is.
His journalism is amazing. The way he talks to them.
He doesn't mince words. I am also surprised with how many of these prisoners are like, "Yeah, I'm a murderer, not a liar."
Somebody get this man a Peabody award because he is an absolutely brilliant interviewer. Great documentary.
He shudda got Addie's phone number.
He's exalent
This is a great doc! Superbly edited and interviewer is phenomenal
ive watched this a few times, this is one of the best prison docs there is. i wish Trevor would do an entire series inside prisons. He's great and his few episodes are like how LockUp used to be in it's early days with John Siegenthaler... inside prisons, interviewing prisoners, as opposed to focusing on guards who act for cameras, or being inside jails, creating a story with a beginning middle and end.
Louis Theroux has a season or 2 of prison docs that are really good.
@@chuckmangione195 😂cf
Sir Trevor Mcdonald is the most kind, calm, non judgemental and uplifting by giving advice when asked. I LOVE his documentaries. God bless his ❤️!
This man is a REAL Journalist Really sad to see where journalism has gone in this age of division and political motives.
Now we have movies like 2,000 Mules in theaters. Literally a movie trying to convince the country that a made up event happened, and they believe it. It doesn't get much worse than that.
@@godsrevolver9737. oh 😅🥲🥲😜🥝
@@godsrevolver9737 jan 6 was worse than 911!
I came to comment about him and how he is the most eloquent and amazing interviewer Ive ever seen and he has such a genuinely non-judge mental sweet and innocent way about him.
@@themindofjonathan3686 found one..
What a profound documentary! every subject/ convict's soul ripped open and bared for all to perceive and taste the rawness of humanity by an absolutely brilliant interviewer.
@ 2:58 I love how the superintendent danced around Trevors question,
" Do you like any of these people?"
Amazing.... I go to work everyday and feel like life sucks. This helps to put things into a new light, I have absolutely no reason to complain.
imma remember this comment for so long
@@niftyss7878 SAME 🙏
I go to work every day, feeling grateful that I get a chance to, and grateful that I have a job. When some would complain about anything, I would always say…somewhere someone has it worse than you, be thankful.
I thought I was strange for that exact reason. Nice to see! Gaining a new perspective to maintain a grateful position is actually a pretty healthy exercise.
I am trying not to throw up in my mouth!
The man that killed at 13 is so well spoken and articulate. Really such a shame that he made that choice but I do not forget the victims. How horrible bc they said they didn’t want their grass mowed! So senseless
Please he was so young off course the victim but at his age the brain is not yet completly develloped.
@@rayanbe84 well if he ever gets out let him stay by you then. I don't want no killer staying by me regardless of what age they killed a killer is a killer and should be killed period!
@@rayanbe84 that’s not an excuse. Plenty of underdeveloped, impulsive brains refrain from killing effortlessly. You are a part of the problem. People like him who have killed young and were later released, have killed again.
@@rayanbe84
Exactly.
I told another one,that the last thing developing,is the part where you understand consequenses. That happens at age 22-24. In a 15 year old it is a lot that is missing.
And, wtf , a child that do such a crime,shouldnt one investigate what happend? I mean, there got to be something wrong.
He needs of course jailtime.
But he shouldnt have been put in ordinary jail before he was 18,meaning he should have been in juvenile prior.
When they handle it like it was from 1700', not 2022, the price is even worse.
If someone put a child like that, in a regular jail, in my country, it would be a riot that would be over until they changed it.
Its sad seing science not being aknowledge in this area in several country's. I react stronger when it is usa, i KNOW they normally know more/better.
But then again, look at what they do with abortion...
It seems usa is going back in time ...
And dont aknowledge science and facts in the procedure...
@@rayanbe84 j
Being a "caged animal" is what put me on the " straight and narrow path" some 35 yrs. ago , haven't looked back 👍
Congrats! It’s hard to get out of the system once you’re in the system! So seriously, great job!
Were you able to transition ok? I know it can be tough to get a job, housing and etc.
So happy you have your freedom 🙂
God Bless You Rob! 🙏❤😇
In the early 90's I was arrested one nite. I was put in a large cage that looked like it was for a large animal! It was sitting right in front of the front desk in the Police Station as you walked in! It was for a Domestic incident, which later a Judge dropped all the charges!
The male cops were all "A" Holes to me! They even made me take a shower,, and one of the officers took the paper off the little window on the window of the door and watched! 😡
I would Never make it in a prison! It's just best to keep obeying the law! 👍🙏🙂
That seems like what would Be for most and unusual way to change your life around I hope you have found love also as I believe it is a main factor and turning your life around
@@christinawilson2667 q
Sir Trevor is amazing. The dignity he brings with his questions. Unparalleled empathy.
This interviewer was so respectful and treated them all with such dignity and respect. We’ll done.
Not excusing any of these inmates for their crimes, but what an amazing look into humanity itself. How each person searches for meaning and purpose even when confined to a cage for life. This prison is quite impressive - seems to be a model of a well-run establishment. I am shocked at the lack of chaos and violence among potentially seriously dangerous criminals. Amazing!!
Are you serious lol. Michigan City ISP is a freaking jungle. Indiana just keeps all that goes on in DOC behind that 30 foot wall. Maybe the women's prison but not ISP
@@NonBathingApe6969 Yeah I think I spoke too soon. I watched the rest of it and saw a little bit of a different perspective. I stand by the first half of my comment but agree I spoke too soon about the prison itself. 🤦🏼♀️
There is no humanity in these monsters. Being in front of the camera tends to make these things act somewhat "normal".
@@jamesharris203 I disagree, in that some of them may be but certainly not all. You can't judge the decisions one makes based on the lives they've lived. I draw the line with a lot of things but I don't think it's fair to call them all monsters.
@@karenmilford7809 I agree with you on this one. James Harris is what I like to call a stereotypical thinker. Judging people all in a group; there is a lot more to life than just black and white.
Some of these men seem like they find more purpose in jail than they did on the outside. I can admire that. It’s sad though that it took this terrible journey and others were harmed to reach this point.
@3rrlia you're not wrong, most people getting the life sentence, deserve it. its just how it is. dont do the crime...
You're the type of girl to date one of them aren't you.
@@CxCoinHolder lmao!!!! Um no😂😂😂😂
Yes. Seems like they have a strange, fragile sort of peace. Like they benefited greatly from structure and consistency they find in there
Harmed? They were murdered. Killed. Dead.
I seen this documentary so many times. It never gets old.
I have watched this about 20 times myself
"I seen"???
me too. cheers
@@james1795All you get out of this documentary (and the comments is the opportunity to correct someone’s words) - that is almost as bad as me commenting about you commenting about someone’s choice of words😂😂😂.
@@sylviekins. Sorry about your insecurity.
This interviewer is very good at his approach and ability to ask questions to disarm the inmates and truly draw out honest information. Well done.
The barber is just amazing. Looks like a story in a movie, but so true and real.
The barbershop job is a sweet assignment in prison. Nobody's gonna mess with you, and you have a solid re-entry career opportunity if you ever get paroled.
The barber has been released
@@gotvipers1He has?
@@career5690yes
The barber has passed away
I can’t get past the guy that committed a double homicide at 13. The heart breaks for all involved. Two people lost their lives over a lawn. Just a kid and he destroyed his life over that so he basically killed three people (including himself) before he was old enough to even understand the meaning of that
Well said. 13 just a baby😢
Death is the cure... Evil Kid
13 might be a teenager, but they definitely understand life and death. This isn't a 5 year old.
@@bunnybubson1665 they don’t understand the nuances and consequences of it though. They don’t have the mental capacity to fully understand what they are doing - there’s a reason you aren’t tried as an adult until later on now.
are you heart break by the fact that the USA people are gonna pay for feeding him for 170 years? 😅
The program with the pets should most definitely be in every state. It’s not just a sense of purpose but the companionship it holds with an individual. It can help with anxiety, depression, trauma everything
These animals don’t deserve comforts
And it gives homes 2 critters that would otherwise be euthanized Or stuck in a shelter.
Yeah but it is not fair on the pets to be locked up though
@WoodysOpinion101 it's better than being in a shelter with no human interaction at all, the critters also get something out of this I assure you this is better than being in a shelter stuck in a cage alone they don't know they're in jail LOL they just know they have a person now someone to play with food to eat and a roof over their head and they're no longer in a shelter that's incredibly stressful for all animals, a shelter is a jail for animals..
I agree 💯
This is my favorite documentary series of all time-I’ve watched it for years ❤ Sir Trevor McDonald is a legend
Now thats how u interview ppl, he is the best, God bless him everyone in this video and reading this commant.
Comment
Most news interviews kinda annoy me, a man loses his entire family in a house for "so tell me, how do you feel knowing you won't see your family again." Bro are you serious!
Teach your children impulse control and delayed gratification - this is exactly what a lot of this is- teaching patience is absolutely necessary esp with boys. I saw it in my son early on- with lots of hard work and teaching skills to deal with his frustration - he’s learned to be patient and THINK before he reacts. Once the mind is engaged in an adverse way it’s nearly impossible to change a persons mind. This is why people commit suicide as well.
This a great point that's not easy to put into words, as you've done. I love it! And completely agree. I mean, I don't have kids cuz my parents taught me this well. But if I ever do...🤣🤣 My pea brain will try to remember your phrasing...
I was an inpatient kid and I am so glad my mom taught me the power of thinking
I agree. You should do a TED talk on patience, impulse control, delayed gratification, and your actual experience with your son. Seriously, thank you for sharing.
No, that has nothing to do with suicide. Stay in your lane.
@M SD I think it applies to some (very few) people's experience with suicide and/or suicidal thoughts but definitely not the majority. Every situation in life has many possible variables for each individual. I have to agree with you for the most part here. I feel like too often people view suicide from outside the window and immediately begin looking for an answer, an explanation that is almost tangible. People have this need to rationalize things in ways that they personally can understand. This leads them to list out minor life struggles that stacked up for the reason behind it. It's not at all that simple and that perspective can be quite patronizing, ostracizing, and degrading. There's not a day that passes without reminders of how neglected awareness and education of such subjects are.
The guy who committed his crimes at 13 is really well spoken, in different circumstances who knows how his life could have turned out, yes the crimes committed that day were terrible, really a sad situation all round.
It almost sounds like he was mimicking Denzel Washington at first, I really enjoyed listening to him speak.
I truely hope he has a good family-He deserves A life- not,life ☮️💜
He must be black… I bet anything…
Yes. His verbal skills are quite good.
He shouldn't even be in there. If I heard correctly he was an accomplice so idk if he did the actual murders. And no one under the age of 18 should be tired as an adult, just sick.
The guy who killed 2 people when he was 13 yrs old received more sentences than serial killers and adults who kills intentionally.
True, but he's a turd nonetheless, so good riddance!
Invading someone's home is a serious offense.
@@two-bit8502 true, but at 13 years of age, is a super long sentence really fair in the long run? In no way am I trying to downplay anything. At that age, kids don't always think of long term consequences like adults do. At that age, the brain is still developing.
@@ninja_revert murder is unforgivable. The alternative is the death penalty. 150 is better than the death penalty.
@@two-bit8502 murder is unforgivable and 150 years is better than the death penalty, but does a 13 year old really deserve to be in prison for the rest of their life? There's probably more to the story than is told on camera.
Sir Trevor is so engaging and clearly very compassionate to even the worst people he meets. I could listen to him talk forever.
At 2:57:10 This woman killed her three (3) month old son she should never be allow to get out of jail ever again, look at the way she smiles while telling the story of the way her son died. I wish her the worst life possible if this monster is to be released from prison.
She's even flirting
I agree she has no right to be free she took her babies life she shouldn't be free to live hers.
My thoughts exactly! She’s a psychopath. How’s he able to get out !
I was touched by Cindy's story. So many women are in this, and every prison for just trying to get help. The final result was six people died, and no parole board will ever see past that. A woman who abused and lost custody of 2 children, then killed a third is going home, and her post-partum was taken into consideration. But Cindy had been repeatedly abused by her father, then in the home she burnt. I truly believe she never wanted to hurt anyone she was just trying to get anyone to listen and help.
so true expecially when she tried to save them it makes me sick how messed up the law is
I really deeply grieve for Cindy…😢 To think that she’s resigned to the fate
You're so gullible.
All she had to do was run away, there was absolutely zero reason to set fire to the house. I know many women who were abused and they never took the life of another person, or even thought about taking the life of another person.
Like I said in a reply earlier this man, Sir Trever McDonald is definitely one extra special
exceptional man the way he is so polite, up-close and personal with both
men and women he truly cares to get to know them and their stories.
And he’s respectful, doesn’t appear to be scared approaching inside their cells,
he fits right in and they liked Sir McDonald
(can tell he’s a very humble, blessed man very much a likable guy. . .)
They were very open and welcoming to him.
I think these prisoners are very lucky and blessed to be able to have sucha
humble respectful man visit them on Deathrow and felt they needed it.
They were so welcoming to Sir Trever McDonald and so open talking to him
so freely in telling him their stories.
Especially when he went back wanting to visit the man a 2nd time that murdered
a woman, a mother of a 4-1/2 y.o.babygirl, he told him he went there to rape the mom
(which he had denied yrs prior when caught) -
he admitted to slicing both the lil girl and her mothers throats leaving them for dead.
Damn, Soooo cold blooded it shook me to my core when I watched him telling
Sir McDonald about it, WOW
could see it did bother the murderer (I forget his name)
he appeared to be a bit remorseful especially for the 4-1/2 y.o. girl while telling
his gruesome story.
Then Sir McDonald went to visit a woman’s prison.
This is a great Documentary one of the best “Prison Documentaries” I’ve seen yet.
This man Sir Trever McDonald is AWEsome. . .
If by chance you’re on the fence about this Documentary I highly recommend you
watch it, it’s Good.
You all be safe outthere!
God Bless 🙏🛐🙏
- Angel 🌹♥️🥰
MuchLove
Sir Trevor MacDonald did a wonderful job. He was polite, fair and respectful but you could tell he knew exactly who he was dealing w. Intelligent investigative journalism.
Anyone else watch these videos until you doze off and go to sleep?
1.3k likes later:
“I just wanna thank god, my mother for always believing in me”
Omggg meeeee hahahahahahhahahahah
Constantly!
Yooo me and my boyfriend were literally just saying how did 750k people watch all 3 hours of this all the way through and how we couldn’t. Now I understand how. 😂😂😂
@@jassmilan09 lol you can’t stop watching lol
Strangely soothing 🤷🏻
Sir Trevor McDonald is so great in everyone he speaks to in all these episodes. I love him!
This woman who killed her baby son, refers to him as being " another life!". She's busier speaking about her attempted suicide, than killing her own child. She seems cold!
Like, she shows no remorse. All smiling that she will be getting out in two years! I don’t understand how she can live with herself. But I pray for her and her precious angel!
Narcissistic Psychopath only care about getting their needs met, everything is an object to be used and abused.
Well, she's right. She has a life and she took another life. Did you miss all the times she called him "her son"? Probably not. You just cherry picked and created a fake outrage. And you must have also missed that it had been about 15 YEARS! That's almost 5,500 days. Do you expect her to still be crying on the 5,500th day? That would make anyone go insane. She's coping with her crime the best she can. People like you are insufferable.
@@BornIn1500 Only 17 years for killing an innocent child? Women are privileged. A man would have gotten death sentence or atleast life in prison without parole.
@@akshay9602 I agree with that. There is absolutely discrimination against men in the justice system, but you'll never hear about it from the BS "equality" groups. My comment was referring to the armchair psychologists who think when someone says "the baby" or when they say "another life" it means they don't care about the person. Some people just speak differently. I've heard many loving parents refer to their child as "the boy" or "the kid" or "the baby".
This gentleman is the mist incredible interviewer I have ever listened to. So sad that any of this had to happen. The one that breaks my heart the most..the 3 month old baby. 😢
*Sir Trevor McDonald amazing interviewer. REAL Journalist doing real journalism.*
I really respect how the superintendent and interviewer both treat those men. They understand what they are capable of. But they treat and speak to them respectfully. And they seem to respect them as well.
I agree, but people should always remember that serious criminals are often capable of putting on a good front and some can lie really good. Getting taken in by the charm of a perpetrator leads to people siding against victims sometimes. "He's not capable of doing something like that"...
@@anarcho-communist11 lol not my first kick at the criminal can Luv. I have a pen pal on death row for years. I know what it's all about.
Greatest respect for your honesty and the respectful way you talk with the people in prison, making a documentary in a fair way
Wow, what a respectful, classy, and non biased guy doing these interviews 👏 THIS is journalismat its best. Well done sir...
This is soothing for me to listen to. I’m just cleaning my garage on a Saturday afternoon.
Fabulous interviewer. Asks the questions we ourselves would ask. I could listen to him talk all day.
Got to be one of the best documentary I've ever seen
I agree
I'm glad the guy who killed the lady and her 4 y.o. girl told the truth and admitted what he'd done instead of sticking to his original story of not being guilty.
Unlike the dude @ 1:05:04, "all i did was one murder" (he killed two people) "they were stabbed to death" (he stabbed them to death)
@gracenakimura5786 Who cares if it's one or two or 10...still murder
Yes, but to see one remorseful for what they've done allows you to view them as a human being and not just a monster.
Unlike the ones who deny or make excuses for what they've done. They're simply monsters.
He still deserves the death penalty, but I hope the victims family can find some sort of peace somewhere knowing the person responsible is remorseful also and not just dead.
Hope that made sense.
I just read his death sentence was overturned and he is just serving life as of 2019.
Still can’t stand the guy - even once he admits the truth don’t forget his “ girlfriend “ in Germany, who he’s allowed to discuss “his pains with” compliments of us taxpayers.
This is the 2nd time I've watched this & Trevor McDonald is the most sensitive, compassionate interviewer I've ever come across. He manages to get to the point of the matter whilst remaining considerate of his interviewee's feelings. I absolutely adore his perfect diction & his vocabulary is beyond that of any other interviewer I've seen. Thank you for an excellent documentary.
Sir Trevor McDonald is an awesome Journalist. He treats the prisoners with respect and truly listened to their stories. I´m at aw how these prisoners can do such horrific crimes. Thank you Sir Trevor McDonald for sharing this video.
I've been to Rockville and it is absolutely so intimidating when you first get there. That's the place the literally made me decide right then that I was going to do whatever I had to to change my life and never go back.
"Don't go back to Rockville and waste another year."
@@DanielMulloy-bg6gw I have been sober and have held a job since I've been out December 24th, 2018. I have completely changed my life around.
Sure you have
Proud of you 😊 you got this 👍 keep it up
@@lynnetteroberds2665 Good job, keep it up! I too got into trouble once & that was almost 20 years ago. I never looked back.
Sir Trevor McDonald's voice is soothing, non-judgmental and caring. He shows the inmates respect, thus the inmates show him respect and thus allowing the incarcerated men, women to open up truthfully. Excellent documentary.
I am a former lifer who did 36 yrs in the California prison system. I can relate to these fellas about what emotions we have to deal with on a daily basis basis. Wish them all good luck on their journey of living in prison...is rough.
My husband did 20 at San Quentin. He was also LWOP. But the Stanford Law Clinic facilitated his release. Non-violent crimes, he went in under 3 strikes. We have a peaceful life and home. He goes back every Saturday to support chapel. God bless you, brother and your family
@@riapvaldez Your husband should do a story or podcast about his life and time at SQ. I bet he's experienced a lot.
@2:30:40 the way that girl smiles while telling her story makes me feel she doesn't care. It might be a nervous reaction but it made my stomach hurt because an innocent man is now blind for something that should have never happened.
Was anxiety...nervousness. I do that. Can't help it.
The one named Addie who was I'm for strong armed robbery made me want to slap the grin off her face and shove the giggle down her throat too.
She is proud of her work.
A lot of the women interviewed for this film smiled as they told their story. Could be the presence of cameras. Could be they are not used to being asked about their experience in a humane and caring manner. Could be embarrassment. Could be nerves. Could be that smiles are what gets them through each day.
Prison being what it is, most of these women cannot possibly be as cheerful as they come off, so there must be something else going on behind those smiles.
Sir Trevor Macdonald is the best journalist/interviewer I have ever heard.
Please make a part 2 it’s been a while Sir!
There is a part 2. I think its 5 years later.
@@creativedegree link?
@@christinawilson2667 ua-cam.com/video/JGT2pwNO0yk/v-deo.html
@@christinawilson2667 ua-cam.com/video/JGT2pwNO0yk/v-deo.html
Yesss pleaseee SIR!
Bill Toney was the police officer that Benjamin Ritchie killed. Officer Toney's younger brother was named Todd and he was in jail for drug charges and found out his brother had been killed in the line of duty on the news. The sheriff deputies in Hamilton Co IN allowed Todd to go to the funeral because some of them were in the police academy with Bill. The real loser this situation is their mother, she lost one son in the line of duty and lost another son to a drug overdose. Truly a sad situation.
Soft white underbelly just did a interview with Ritchies GF.
One inmate explained losing a (loved one) cell mate perfectly. He said, you spend years getting to know someone. Spending everyday with them. Then one day they call their name take them down the hall and you know they are dead. When losing a loved one you spend everyday with them, then one day you don’t hear from them, then you have to imagine how they were tragically murdered or in pain in their last moments and you never see them again. I have no pity for those who have taken another life.
*every day
Hope he didn't kill anyone
@@twincherry4958 He killed a cop
This video sure didn’t put me to sleep! I was hanging on every word for three hours! Thank you for sharing! Awesome documentary!
That girl who got 16 years deserves to be locked up longer. She is messed up in the head. No regret, no true emotion behind her mistakes
To see the difference between an inmate who has the ability to ‘escape’ via books vs. the one who’s options are reruns on TV and cleaning makes one take pause.
This host is excellent. I could listen to him speak about any topic. I am in the process of becoming a corrections officer and this documentary is very insightful. Thank you to everyone involved.
12:40 oh wow....those words really hit me hard. Idk if there could be a better way to make someone actually realize and put into perspective the situation that man and others like him are in...."I`ve been so long in prison it feels like I`ve never been free." Literally sent chills down my spine.
Your handle is hilarious
Just next time please watch those split infinitives
But no worries … top levels of grammar watchers find ourselves in endless puzzles
@@markkunkel8456 XD I sure do appreciate you find it funny usually it`s crazy ppl who use it as an argument to discredit me (which is funny in itself tho :D )
Split infinitives? Perhaps you can elaborate? Grammar has always been my weakness when it comes down to english (though at times it seems it`s actually better than the one some native speakers posses :D)
and don`t worry no offense taken. In fact I can understand you more than well. When texting with my friends in my native language I just can`t help it but correct them when they make a mistake lol.
edit: oh do you mean that bit that was " to actually to realize"? Or does it have to do something with the tense? I just read my comment and if it`s the former it was just an honest mistake cz I probably got distracted or smth.
Yup, that statement caught my attention too. I honestly feel so sorry for him and in my personal opinion, I feel that his sentence was WAY TOO harsh on him. For one, he was only 14 or 15 years of age when he and his friend committed the crime. People at this age their mind is still developing, still don't grasp the severity of their actions, very immature thinking, act on impulse without thinking first, their hormones are everywhere and run strictly on peer pressure. Yes, what they did was horrible, absolutely horrible. But we don't know the circumstances of how everything took place. How their neighbors reacted when they asked if they could mow their lawn. Life is hard and it's even harder when one is born a minority. They didn't go out and have murder on their mind, they were thinking "let's work, make money and go to the fair!!" I'm not excusing what they've done, not at all. I'm just saying the punishment does not fit the crime. I have seem way worse offenders who were adults, who have planned out thier crimes go FREE! So to see this....its disgusting. He should of been out by 20 or 23 years of age. Life isn't easy for ex-inmates by the way, even if he were to of gotten out by 20years, just getting employment alone would be punishment. He would be punishment for the rest of his life because people DON'T CARE about rehabilitation, people are A LOT MORE INTERESTED in PUNISHMENT.
As far as I`m aware the main reason for this in the US particularly is that prisons are private businesses meaning it makes a lot of ppl very rich. I do wonder when will we begin to deal with prevention and more importantly - rehabilitation as well.
@@nuviaerivez5876 he was only 13. Disgusting what the justice system did.
I don’t understand how they’re letting people with attempted murder and murdering your own child out of jail after a few years or not at all like Casey Anthony. I just don’t understand how hurting a child or innocent people who can’t defend themselves get berly to no justice because they let these murderers out of jail.
They like it. They are killers too
What do you expect from perverted and corrupt governments?
@@marcelinoperez2926 boo hoo. 6 feet under they can't hurt anyone ever again
@@marcelinoperez2926 I DO like getting rid of sub-humans who hurt innocents. THE A-HOLES are NOT innocents.
@@leadimentoobrien1221 With this corrupt judicial system and politics, the death penalty is not an issue at all.
Besides, a hard job until the end without the possibility of appeal is a good punishment.
"You look up one day and 37 years have went by." You don't have to be jailed to be in prison.
Such wisdom
In A prison, not in literal prison
@@gracie1312 I said what I said
Hats off to sir Trevor McDonald for this unique documentary
Prayers for the inmates 🙏
Dang! I saw this one years ago. All you did was combine the two. When will part 2 come out? I’d love an update on the men.
ua-cam.com/video/JGT2pwNO0yk/v-deo.html
Search inside death row with Trevor McDonald 2018 - Five Years On. I just found it.
@@fluteloops22 thank you!! I just finished watching it! I also posted to let everyone else know. I am curious to know why it’s not by Real Stories.
@@christinawilson2667 That’s why I couldn’t find it originally because it wasn’t posted by them! Glad you could watch it!
@@fluteloops22 yes, I’ve been wanting an update since I watched it so many years ago, so thanks! It’s about time for another update! lol
One of the best prison docs I've ever seen out of many. Bravo 👏
Thank you for sharing this great documentary. You ask the right questions and your countenance is so calming. I’ve always been for the death penalty (eye for an eye) but I understand some of the circumstances that these offenders were on drugs, etc. Guess it boils down to bad choices. Unfortunately, that is the bane of mankind. I’m sorry for their circumstances and hope they turn to God for peace and forgiveness.
I really like the music in this show. It has character. It reminds me of a glum and gloomy day, and somehow it feels oddly nostalgic. It’s a nice change of pace from the usual cheesy attempts at metal/rap on shows like Hard Time. More introspective, too. 👏🏻
I agree. The nostalgic Western and the gentle Bossanova were a great addition.
Thoughts and prayers with victims and those serving time for their actions. Deeply revealing documentary. Thank you for shedding light that there are indeed lives on death row, perhaps it can help the next generation make better decisions.
Victims are the dead ones. Criminals are the ones alive and talking to the reporter.
Wishful thinking there Sola Soul
@@nuviaerivez5876 Honestly, I really hope people don't make the biggest mistake you can ever make in life
Props to the first guy for being so honest about who he is. You can't help but like him but that's an admirable quality no matter what he's done
Imagine being a woman who believes no normal man will have you, so you go to death row to look for love.
If her judgement is that terrible, then she's clearly doing ALLLL of the guys on the outside a huge favor; they're not normal why would a normal guy want that? Stupid is as stupid does I guess
Imagine having a heart big enough to understand that all ppl are deserving of love
Not saying I would do it but I can understand how someone could
It’s all about perspective
@@nicolivolcoff3516 I would consider that naive. If a woman thinks she can fix a man she is a glutton for punishment, and believe me they will try if these men ever get released. However I still believe low self esteem is the dominating factor in most cases.
After thinking about it, I have to concede that at least some prison wives are sadly simply celebrity-struck and do it for the notoriety. That appears to be a mental issue in its own right. Regardless, the great majority live to regret it I’m sure.
@@nicolivolcoff3516 not everyone deserves love and prison girlfriends/boyfriends are just a way to get money for your stay. It's incredibly ignorant and naive to think a prison relationship is a valid relationship.
Excellent presentation!! Just love listening to you. *Reminds me of James Earl Jones' voice. Extremely interesting delivery, and at the same time your interaction with the prisoners is so respectful.
Thoroughly enjoyed this episode.
This is a good documentary. The obvious observation for me is that these people get haircuts, medical care, safe accommodations often with their own televisions, even pets. Everyone of these men have it better than any of their victims.
You say that, but look at it like this...if you committed a crime, albeit inadvertently, or whatever, you would want to be treated humanely while you serve your sentence and then return to society afterwards. The point is that you are paying for your actions and that is the point of the 'CORRECTION DEPARTMENT'...but do you want to be treated humanely or like an animal? Also, if you want to treat criminals like animals, how are they supposed to act like people again when they are released? We seem to expect perfect results from an imperfect system.
@@GG-vv1zq how do you treat animals?
Great program. I spent 16 years in prison. I was a max prisoner at Spring Creek Correctional Center.
Alaska sent me to Florence Arizona 1998 until I was released October 20, 2006. I was in For Escape and Armed robbery. I educated myself and tried over 400 fellow prisoners while in Arizona. After working a steady career, I became a firefighter in 2015, 2016 I'd become an Emergency Trauma Technician. My title was EMS Coordinator and I led my team to be the best Medevac crew in Alaska. I'm one of 22 firefighters in Alaska to hold an Offshore Firefighter Certificate.
My orders come from 911 dispatch, Alaska State Troopers and Alaska Homeland Security. I've saved many lives driving an ambulance and my calls are all documented 911 calls.
I walked the yard with Alaska's worst prisoners. Serial Killers, kids who grew up in the system. I was in the Alaska system from 1973 to 2017. A ward of the State of Alaska for 44 years.
Oh wow. That Baer guy on death row with the cat. I remember him now. That was in my county about 15 miles from me. He murdered a young mother and her 4 year old daughter. Luckily the older daughter was at school. He was all drugged out on meth. A young family that was just moving into their house. The husband was in Florida moving the rest of their belongings. He was on the news for days and the whole thing was terrifying. He had slit their throats. It was a crime that still haunts me. It was a small town and I had just moved back to the state and was considering moving to that town when it happened. It was such a random brutal sickening crime. He got life instead of the death penalty. I believe the family requested it.
It was because of appeals, not the family
@@Jayskiallthewayski I know he got the appeal but the Judge could have reaffirmed the sentence. He was quoted in the paper saying he sentenced him to 2 life sentences without parole because it is what the family wanted. The husband testified at the sentencing.
If he got life without parole then why is he on death row?
@@ginamarshall7691 During the filming of this documentary he still had an appeal in the works. What I posted on was the outcome of that appeal.
@@songbirdy Gotcha!
I love how humble Sir Trevor is by not bragging to the inmate that he's met Diana, Princess of Wales.
Would have been cool though, Baer would've loved that.
Good point. But it could also be because he wasn't trying to build camaraderie with that killer.
Hopefully Sir Trev found the Diana shrine weird. I sure did even though I love Diana too but he gave me creepy vibes
This deserves all kind of awards!!!!
The wardens respect for the prisoners is admirable. We can't become the people we punish.
Too late
@@Ishbikes Real Stories of The High way patrol
As an European i often complain about the lenient sentences my country gives out. Often the punishment does not equal the crime, a life sentence in The Netherlands is only 25yrs which imho is not enough for the more heinous crimes. But seeing this documentary and especially the americans in this comment section i start to see that most of the EU believe in rehabilitation while the USA believes in punishment and i should count my blessings that we don't have it so bad where i'm from.
We don't believe in punishment. We believe in justice. What is justice for taking a life without even a reasonable excuse?
@@julien.4617 But death for a death isn't justice though. That's revenge. I'm not gonna tell you no one deserves law enforced death (But not as easy as the US seem to dish them out) or a life sentence. But a lot of these people, after many years *seem* to have been able to reflect on their crimes and learned from them and could be rehabilitated and with the proper care and precautions be send back to society. There's a reason why the US is in the ... top 5? of prisons per state, people inprisoned per year, etc. The laws the US have are, to me and many europeans, insane.
@@oddy5258 I believe turning a convicted , cold-blooded murderer loose on an unsuspecting society is not only insane, but heartless and irresponsible. There have been many instances where some "well-meaning" people have let convicted murderers out in parole. Guess what they went right back to their old ways and killed more people. Maybe you would like to put your life, your spouse's life, your children's lives and your friends' lives at the mercy of these wonderful convicted murderers. You may wish to bet your life on it, but I don't think most people do. They have expressed their inate opinion on the value of life and have judged themselves.
@@oddy5258 when someone hurts a child it's justice !!!! When someone kills an innocent person it's justice !! Justice the American way !! You call it revenge it's not revenge revenge would be doing the same thing to the person they hurt or killed !! It's is 💯 % justice !!
Most dont get the death penalty in the US. But they for sure do life in prison. Heck for stealing money from a job it's 3-7 years. Our system is mainly about money though. Those with good lawyers serve far less for higher crimes than those who are broke. Thankfully we do have drug court programs and things for non violent offenses that are committed due to an addiction.
I’m amazed the prisons let them make this - it proves the illogicality of so much of the system. The sentencing in American courts is ridiculously inconsistent.
Dude that killed his 5 kids. He tortured and raped his baby girls then drove around with them and wants Trevor to look at him. His weight blahh fu pos.
Yeah the justice system is broken hopefully it will be fixed one day.
@@merkcityboy834
That Never will happen in Ugly America 🇺🇸
These guys are living better than homeless in USA??!
Sir Trevor McDonald, you are truly a gracious, respectful man. They don't make them like you anymore. #respect# hero worship
The interviewer is just amazing. Perfect tone, good and honest questions, still compassionate. The guy who did murder at age 13, should get a chance to better his life. You shouldnt lock up such young kids for life, inhuman state who does this.
I wish they would make new episodes.. ive seen almost all of them... MORE PLEASE
First time seeing this presenter/interviewer and I'm amazed at his thoughtful questions and his ability to humanize these women who were locked up as monsters. I almost felt sorry for a few of them, until they described what they did with a smile on their face. Something so unsettling about their smiling while retelling their stories.
I like this guy, he is very respectful and calming to watch. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this. Thank you for bringing these people's personal stories to light. I feel kind of bad for the guy who killed when aged 13. I feel he should get a second chance at life outside, if he is mentally stable and only if he really is a changed man.
He’s not condescending or negative. He’s so neutral and respectful.
He’s not condescending or negative. He’s so neutral and respectful.
He’s not condescending or negative. He’s so neutral and respectful.
He’s not condescending or negative. He’s so neutral and respectful.
I looked into his case. He was with a 15 year old when they broke into the elderly ladies house & murdered her & her sister. The 15 year old was arrested a year later, immediately took a plea deal, denied having anything to do with the actual murders & testified against him. His lawyers told Him to plead guilty & because of his age he wouldn’t do too much time ( clearly they didn’t have his best interest at heart ) I believe he deserves a new trial. There’s no way to prove if only one of them did the murders ( or which one it was ) or both participated. The 15 year old served 2 years in prison.
The warden is so respectfull. Shows' he is right for the job.
I really feel sorry for the inmates who are doing time for crimes that they didn't commit.
Lol...of course they didnt do it..😉😄😅
@@missypuffin8985 how naive can someone be? Ignorance is bliss
@@missypuffin8985 You'd be shocked how many people do time for crimes they did not do, I hope it never happens to you, or anyone you know
@@missypuffin8985 I did 18 months for something I did not do I feel bad feel the ones on death row
@@missypuffin8985 I agree they aren't there for singing too loud in church.
What a wonderful and Non-Judgmental man...Love these interviews.People deserve forgiveness.
The inmate that said "I did this one murder, that's it, that's all I did." Then he goes on to say " I killed 2 innocent people". Interesting how he thinks 2 people equals one murder. So cavalier in his statement.
One murder job. That's what it was to him at the time. One job. One crime. Two lives.
The one thing I valued the most about Mr. Mcdonald while doing his interviews is never judged not one of those inmates.
I myself support the death penalty, but after those inmates have received their judgments they are still humans at the end of it all and he treated them all with the up most respect!
Well done!
He never openly judged them, just nodded his head.
We can never know whether he judged them. Keep in mind that he is very much in control of the character he is choosing to portray in this film. He certainly did a fine job befitting a gentleman with the honorific of "Sir."
I just wish that someone could get through to these human beings before it’s too late. Very tragic all around.