If you have been incarcerated any time in the past, please sign in here. If you would like, please also tell us when and where and anything else you feel is relevant.

Please ONLY use this thread to "sign in" and not for general conversation. My goal for this thread is to let PTO members know who we are in the event they have questions for us, and for future ex-cons/offenders/prisoners to see there are others of us here.

Thanks,
David (Fed-X)

[You are welcome to be as detailed as you want.. Just your name & where you did time, or as long winded as you like]

I did my only real prison time in the Feds - Beaumont F.C.I. Medium - 27 months.

I have also been in the Federal Detention Center in Houston, Harris County Jail, Montgomery Co. Jail, Brazos Co. Jail & Boot Camp, Williamson Co. Jail, and a number of other Texas jails.
As a Juvi I did 9 months in TYC (Texas Youth Commission) and guess I didn't get enough, though I always seemed to skirt the law for the most part.. Doing just enough to walk the edge but rarely falling over. Have been on some type of paper since 1992 and am really looking forward to getting off in the next year or so. Federal Probation is MUCH easier (if you are doing right) than state.
My fed time/charge was Felon in possession of a firearm.

If anyone needs to know about Fed prisons, especially F.C.I. Beaumont, I'm here to help.. I can also cover some state related things but I will usually send you to someone else I know for that.

That's it in a nutshell, and I am very retired from that way of life. ;)

David

I was a guest of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Extradicted into Western KY... to the Paducah Hilton. (Mc Cracken County Jail). Tried in a DP case... Given LIFE and sent off to Petticoat Junction... A place actually called PeWee Valley (aka the Pelvic Valley) home to KY's only State Women's Prison. The irony of me being condemned to a place called PeWee Valley is only apparent if you've read Gulliver's Travels.

The conviction had been overturned and made new law concerning Prosecutorial Misconduct. The retrial was again to be heard by a DP qualified jury.

5 Years and 105 Days after it began the Commonwealth saw fit to let me go. Nothing about KY county jails, nor KY cases surprises me.
Oddly, I don't startle easily.

I'm one of the few lady veterans around here. Probably the only person you'll meet who's survived 2 DP prosecutions, or walked out of a LIFE sentence.

I'm here because I am an advocate for prisoner's rights, female offender programs, longterm offender programs and Access to Courts issues. (see the thread on KY's Resident Legal Aid Program --- I advocate IT too. http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=9410

The INTRO post is on my profile now as a Homepage. It pays to know your audience.

What I can do here is listen, learn and find some use for some of that extraneous information and savvy that comes from having been called the defendant, the Lifer, the Legal Aid and of course, just my warm and fuzzy self.

Once and unfortunately, a possible future guest of the fine Commonwealth of Virginia.

My future depends solely on the results of my appeal, facing the possibility of residing in Hotel Virginia until 08.

However, I am looking at life with a positive attitude and plan on being home in California alot sooner than 08.

What can I do here - mostly listen, I am blessed that I don't have much experience to rely on. I would really like to keep it that way!

But I can listen and at times offer my shoulder for some one to lean on.

Patti (FriscoLady)

I've done time in numerous Calif. prisons

S/O some 40 years removed. Conviced 1962, order clearing record 1968, Certificate of rehabilitation 1999. Waiting on governors pardon that will never happen. I've never been in prison, spent 2 1/2 yrs in a CA State Hospital, did 5 yrs probation in 3 yrs.

Here at PTO I do not feel I have any answers, but I "try" to give something to think about from a different prespective from what's posted, on many topic's and a laugh or two along the way.

I'm just a guy that has lived many years. Seen a lot, traveled some (5 countries), read and try to learn from creditable people in the professional world.

Hmm..did most of my time in Santa Rosa in FL. Also beenin some juvie facilities in NY, Rikers island, Kew gardens detention center in queens ny and I am afraid a good possibility of being a future guest of the Florida DOC

I was Facing a Mandatory Minimum Sentence of 25 years, But Only By The Grace Of God I only Had to do One Year with 10 years Probation, and Once Again, Only By The Grace Of God, I completed 5 years of the Probation then went back in front of the Judge, and was Released From the other 5 years due to completion of everything and Good Behavior. And I give GOD ALL THE PRAISE AND GLORY!!! Oh Yeah, I am in Orlando Florida

As a teenager, I seen 'jail' several times, but never got in any major trouble.

In 1996 I was charged and convicted of B&E, 2nd degree burglary, conspriacy to commit armed robbery, and accessory after the fact of murder.
I pulled all my time in the state of NC, including the Iredell County Jail, NCCIW in Raleigh, and FCCW in Rocky Mount.

I've been out of prison since 11/98... but am still on paper.

I served many short stay's as a juvenile, and too many to count in California's fine San Bernardino County Jail, I then eventually graduated to the Calif. State Penal System for Women, served a 9 yr. senrance only to get out and go right back in 3 mos. later, and so on and so on. Violation after violation until I grew up and figured out that who ever it was (I could'nt remember, too many drugs!) that told me prison was cool, LIED. Your not lame if you havent been to prison, so I thought, you were REALLY LAME if you went to prison. 2 years off parole now and holding strong!!!

I spent a year in texas prison the hobby unit. I will be glad to help anyone that needs help with questions or what ever. It was graded the worst womens prison but I can't see that any of them are that great. Your freedom lost means it's lost don't matter where you are. Hobby has lock door policy that means your door opens every hour on the hour and you better be ready to get out or go in they don't wait. Some guards are easier than others and might let you in but not every time just depends on how there day has gone. It's not a place you want to go believe me so think hard on the choices you make and friends you keep it's your freedonm your playing with and theres nothing more precious than that. roberta

I've done two stints so I'm a two rodeo veteran and have permanently retired from the gulag system. Smile. First time down covered the early 90s and I was on Beto-1 and Brisco Unit in Texas. Second go round I did 8 flat and was recently released and did time on the Smith unit, Brisco again (!), and the Darrington Unit where I spent 6 of the 8 flat time down on the 12 for reataliation in ad. seg. confirmed a leader in the Aryan Brotherhood. I quit that ride some years back in case you don't already know or try to give me a hard time about it. Smile. All in all I have over 11 years done day for day in Texas Department of Criminal Justice. My advice to any of you is that if you don't reside in Texas stay away!!! This state is lock em' up happy. Keep the Faith!

I did 3 bits in Ohio. The last one cost me nine years of my life, but it was the turning point for me. I got out in 98 and am off paper.
I did alot of rotten stuff in my life and had to pay the price for my actions. Some good came out of it and some bad too. I no longer have the ability to miss people in my life. Which is a major concern for me. But at the same time I know that no matter what I can make it on my own. :cuffs:

I've only served house arrest time--is that relevent? First, and LAST felony convictions. (2 charges)--Helen

A conviction is a conviction Pixie. I am also the black sheep of my family only because I got caught. I don't see family very much but I always hold my head up high.

I was sentence to an indeterminate sentence of 3-30 years in West Virginia. I served four years on that sentence was was released on parole in February of this year. My finace is currently in San Quentin State Prison in California with a release date of August 2005.

I guess I could say I have the unique perspective of seeing both sides of the system.

I would be glad to answer any questions, and I am here to also offer my support.

Hi I did a little 3 years 6 months at the Women's Correctional Community Center in Kailua, Hawaii. I got out in July 2000, Did 2 good years of parole and got released from state parole 5 years early, July 2002. My fiance just went back to prison. 3rd time for him. 1st time he did 4 years. 2nd, time he did 6 years. And now he's still on state parole and just picked up new Federal Charges. He's facing the 3 strikes law, So we don't know how much time hell do this trip.
Aloha, Kaleilehua

I served 5 months as a Federal inmate at the Geiger Corrections Center in Spokane, Washington, then followed with another 5 months home confinement. I'm currently under 5 years of supervised probation and trying to pay off my restitution so I can put this behind me.

My main reason for logging into this site is because I have a very close relationship with a man that has spent over 15 years in various prisons, just finished serving time for his 2nd strike, and is trying to get his life together now that he's out (10 months now). He is really struggling with missing his former partners and discovering who he is now that he's not living that life. He takes great pride in the fact that he's a "convict" and holds the fact that he's always gone down for his friends, never been a rat, and has always been a stand-up man within that community.

He has turned his life over to God and is working hard to live right, but I really want to know how to help him. I know that there would be some comfort for him in going back to prison because that is all he has ever known and most of his friends are there. I love him so much - I'm hoping someone within this group can help me understand him better and know how to give him the emotional support he needs to stay on track.

All you can do is let him know that you are there for him. Wether he returns to prison is only something that he can decide. I did 9 years the last time and have been out almost five. Some people supported me emotionally but most just waited for my return to the system. I didn't return because I chose not too. It's just like someone with a substance abuse problem. The person has to want to stay on the outside, if they don't there isn't much you can do.

Wlcome and glad you found this site. It has helped me in the short time I've been here.

I did my time in PA. DOC at SCI Greene. PA's version of maximum security. Charge was marijuana and I somehow remained misconduct free. I did 32 months. Actually I did 20 months inside and the last year in a half-way house. Still on paper and will be till the end of '09.

I spent 8.5 years in several women's Federal prisons. I started my time in FCI Lexington, KY and was sent to FPC Alderson, WV in route to Marianna Maximum for Women on a disciplinary action, where I spent 2+ years, my security level dropped so they sent me to FCI Pleasonton, CA and dropped some more where they sent me to FPC Bryan, TX. Was assigned to a work crew at FCI - Carswell, TX where we prepared the hospital for female medical inmates, and back to FPC - Bryan to attend the drug program to complete my sentence.

I spent 5 years on probation, which is now complete.

I was released in 1997, restructured my life again after losing the prime years of my life. I am now 37 years old, went in when I was 23 for dating a man who dealt cocaine. He served 14 years. Conspiracy charges, if anyone was convicted of conspiracy they know what that means.

It has been about 15 years since my arrest and my release was 6+ years ago. I am here to help.

I also need some guidance from anyone who has been out for a considerable amount of time. Want to know if there is anyone out there who shares the same issues as I do.

Started a destuctive lifestyle in the early 70's. Stealing, fighting, drugs and drinking. Stole a car and robbed a gas station. 2, 1-10 year sentence, or what they use to call, 1 to when. Got out didn't change a thing except learned to not trust anyone. Done more time in the 80's for drugs. I've seen 5 institutions and some 15 or so county jails. Knew the inmate who held the record in Indiana. In and out over 60 times. He's passed away some years ago, who cares, I did. Gave up my fast livin and got married. Not only am I happy, but i'm happy about it.

Do we know how many ex-inmates visit this site?

My time started in the Sweetwater County Jail--within the year, I went to the Wyoming Girls School (Juvenile) and over the years continued to Community Alternative Center (CAC) in Casper, Wyoming--Natrona County Jail in Casper, Wyoming--Wyoming Womens Center--and from there was transferred to Central Oklahoma Correctional Facility (COCF) in Oklahoma. I'm 23 now and have been out and on my own for almost three years now. If anyone wants info on any of these places, just let me know.

~~~Do we know how many ex-inmates visit this site?~~~

Only if they tell us. Some will do so in different forums, in responce to a thread.

We hope, that many visit this site and gain some insight in staying out, as well as joining our ranks and sharing there insight of the DOC system(s) and problems living in a society that doesn't want them.

Ex-con's have a lot of valuable information in helping others and in that, put some purpose in there devastatingly ordeal.

B-Ray
PTO Moderator

I was convicted for growing marajuana, with the consipracy laws I was given 12.1/2 yrs, Fed prison,while other codefendents received 18 months or no charges. after 4 yrs and lots of work, my Lawyer was disbarred over my case and I received a sentence reduction of 73 months, I've been out a year, have 4 more yrs of paper, I am very angry with the justice system in this country, To have been incarcerated for something that, the government themselves do, is in my opinion outrageous, to have my life ruined because of a prosecutor that made me a target, and his career case is also outrageous, I lost all relationships with my son and grandchildren, because of the prosecutors harrassement, I lost every thing I had worked for all my life, and I'd worked all my life, a single mom, raised my son,ect. and had a nice little nest egg, for retirement, now I'm over 55 and have nothing, I have a corneal disease, that was not treated, and am disabled because of it, but I'm unable to get SS because they make you jusmp thru so many hoops and I'm only into the third hearing. I am lucky in some ways, and do receive a few benefits, but that is because they don't know I'm a felon. I met so many people in the system that were doing garcoian sentences, and many did not deserve what they were doing. there is something very wrong in our country, when the government can make a 52 billion dollar industry out of incarcerating people, AND it's getting worse instead of better, whats wrong with the poeple of this country, are they stupid or what, the government gets anything they want, and with hardly if not no opposition. I belong to 2 prison reform groups, and am very vocal when ever I'm given the chance ( like now) :) thank You

Whats up everyone...I did 7 yrs. for 2 counts of 1st deg. robbery. I went in 95, and got out in 02..gave birth to my only child in prison back in 96. Been thru alot and than some. I am 27 now. Bout to be 28 in Sept.
I have alot of homegirls in prison who I remain faithful in contact..and also a brother in law who just went in.
Hollar at me anyone who can FEEL me.
LadySoldier

I've done a total 9 and a half yrs served, here in the Uk. Started with a 2 in 82, a six and a half in 87 and a 4 and a half in 99. Thats not including a 22 month remand in custody to be found not guilty! No apologies of course. Been in all the London Prisons plus more. Let me tell you we are fast adopting your rules especially the TX "lock em up mentality" and this 2 strikes and your out law. I was in Wormwood Scubs which is a lifers prison and it was full of 2 strikes and your out, all the real lifers were complaining.. Anyway got no parole been out 15 months and really glad I found your site, its brought some real good people together and I feel at ease here.

I was in and out of "juvi" from age 13 to just prior to turning 16. The charges including vandalism, running away, an auto theft and one bogus arson charge. Those records were sealed when I became emancipated or when I turned 18.


I did one stint in Riverside County, CA serving about 9 months of a one year sentence with five years probation added to that, which I did not complete.

I was in the Hackberry Unit in Gatesville, Tx. I am here to help those who are going in and have fears and questions AND it helps me remember how horrible it was and that I never want to return.

Did Eighteen months at the walls in Moundsville, Wva from 1959 - 1961. Born across river in Ohio. Did six years CCI in Ohio for Att. murder, started to study law inside, went for four year psychology degree, signed onto law school, rejected, so do para-legal work in Ohio.

Just released from Alabama. Spent time in Kilby, Davis, and Loxley this time. Have also done time in West Jefferson or Donaldson it's called now and Ventress, Hamilton WR, and other stays in other places that I don't like to remember.

I did 2 1/2 in az doc was just released on sep.11 2003 and dont plan on returning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

i am 36 ,

i have a juvty record that would throw u , in any state we was in ( military ) i did something and got caught

as an adult , i hooked up with dope boys , and took the rap many times , alaska, ny , pa , cali , fla , ga , chi town, atl , dc . all was short lives , see dem dope boys had dem good azz lawyers , i aint evn gonna tell u , how dem lawyers partyed and got favors to let me go ,

in the end , that man tried to kill me ,** when i was wantin to leave the game he turnt me out on ,,,,dope ** shot me and tried to cut off my feet , ( i look at my scars every day ) i have survived ,

now im married three kids , wonderful man 13 years yeah he knows it all , i just wonder what my kids should know , !!

i wirte alot of folks , cuz i know many didnt have a balla shot calla , and a crokked ass lawyer !! like was provided for me !!

i would also like to note that i love , the poeple that come to these sites i visit ( a few sites ) many that know me , i have a great job ect , dont know that stuff , i just shared a big thing here , i must be at HOME !!

well i was arrested in yulee,fl charged with theft only stayed four days in nassau co. dropped charges a year later.was arrested in hazard ky,had 17 articles of stolen indenty's on me[fake dl's] charged with 6 class c felonies and one misdemeanor,spent 1 night and 1year later dropped charges. famous last words "i was innocent" wrong people right time.

I did 7 1/2 yrs. in a women's prison. I got out in Feb. 02.

I am an ex guest of the Missouri DOC...aka Missery!!!! I received a 15 year sentence, did 5 in and am serving the rest on paper. Was put on call-in on my parole 6 months ago, things are going good, even started my own business. I have been home 2 years now and thank God every day for my freedom and that my family was here waiting for me.

I spent most of the 70's in Missouri, mainly "The Walls". I caught a case while doing time and had to flatten my sentence. I saw many things there including murder by other inmates and by staff. Jeff City was one bloody place back then. As I got short I was transfered to Renz Farm and they made it a coed experiment, now that was a nice place. I met some real solid people there and stayed in the game after my release. Only years of being shot and arrested and seeing friends die made me quit. While in prison I met some of the scum of the earth, however I did meet some of the best people I have ever known. Now that I am getting older I miss all those years I lost, but at the same time it was something. The day I walked out of Jeff City I had no intention of going straight, I was 10 years behind and trying to catch up. I did anything I wanted and paid the price life was not dull....

I have served 4 terms of probation. But that paper ride ended Jan 11, 1999. I served 2 years 11 months at Julia Tutwiler Prison for women in Alabama.

I was released in Aug. 2001 on parole. Did two years parole. Now By God's Grace I am free.

My reason for being here. I would like to help all that I can. And maybe learn somethings myself. I am so thankful for PTO. Finally people who can relate to me. Kat

I only did 6 days(in Harris County jail) in Houston, Texas & I do believe from reading& studying & BEING there-that's the worse jail in the U.S.A.!!! I feared for my life in there! I seen& heard some herific things while in there!!! Also I did lots of overnighters for P.I. back 7 years ago when I used to drink..Tn. N.C. S.C. Ga. Huntsville,Tx. but like I say out of all the jails I've been in HARRIS COUNTY was the worse!!!!!

Started going away as juvi, father not American, deported, never knew him. Mom into drugs and alcohol. Shot my first bag at 14. Turned 16 in Rykers. Short Fed stays, Aldenville, Lex, some county farm in VA, Philly State for woman, DC jail, most likely I've left some out, but my second home was MCI Framingham. I was doing life on the installment plan. In 90 I finished my last bid and I haven't been back. No new arrests, clean sober 10 plus years, in school now, went to college after getting GSD inside, only went to 7th grade, some of it, anyway. It cost years, really years, of time and effort to go and clean up my cases. I had a good lawyer who believed and took me pro bono.It was still expensive. I had time hanging, they declined to prosecute, scariest day of my life! I started in my home state and went down the line, cost money. My Boo is in the Fed Pen, 10 down, eight left. I say, I did it, you can, you've got more discipline than me. Like me, half a life inside, it's enough. So it can be done. Even tho they don't like you to forget, for a second. You know I can't visit, but I appeal, every transfer I will. I deserve to see him, and he's going to have to change his ways too.

I was incarcerated from February 97 to July 2000, at the Women's Community Correctional Center in Kailua, Hawaii. I got off parole 5 years early 1 1/2 years ago. For me, with the things I did and the dope I smoked I should be dead, prison was the blessing that saved me from dying. I learned a lot there and made some real true friends. Prison helped me learn how precious and valuable life really is, and that's the most important thing to me today. Without life then what do I have? My convictions are for drugs and firearms.
Aloha, Kaleilehua151

1988 I did 4 1/2 years in Marysville. ORW. I dont know how I can help but like everyone else I can listen. I have a hard time getting jobs because of the felony record. I have 2 grown boys, well almost any way. I ahve been home 10 years and only done 2 yrs. on probation.
sparks126

18 months at 15.As an adult work release,house arrest and state time 2 1/2 flat.All in OHIO.Released 92'.

Sparks - it sucks getting a job.U can get it expunged if it was a first offense and isn't certain crimes.Even if u want to do better employers of good jobs won't hire.i hate human resource departments !!

1976 14 MONHES REMAND .ONLY TO GET PROBATION WELL SICK .. 78 BORSTALL TRAINING 11 MONTHES . 79 3 MONTHES D C. 1980 TWO YEARS GBH DID 16 MONTHES .
1982 18 MONTHES ABH ,DID 17 AND HALF MONTHES . 1985 3 YEARS ASSULT ON A POLICE OFFICER. DID 2 YEARS . 1990 THEIF AND TDA 12 MONTHES ..GOT MARRIED GOT A JOB GOOD BOY TILL 2002 . GBH HIT A MAN WITH A HAMMER WHO RAPED MY DAUGHTER GOT PROPBATIN 180 CS £ 600 COMPO TO HIM .. WORST JAIL IVE BEEN IN IS WINSTON GREEN .VIRTORIAN JAIL ...

My Name is John Kirby and I did a 3 year bit in missiouri Department of Corrections on a dwi charge

Done some time in Roanoke City Jail. Still on probation here in Patrick Co. Got 11years hanging over my head so I got to be good. Bunch of drug charges

Let's see I am a native Alabamaian. Born and Bread. I have 4 felony convictions starting at the age of 25. I did probation and rehab real well. If the Judge gives you probation on a 15 year sentence. With a warning not to come back before him. You better listen.
But being the show me person that I am. I had to go see him one more time. And he kept his word. On January 11, 1999. I was sentenced to 15 years in Julia Tutwiler Prison for women. That is where I hit bottom. I served 2 year's 11 months between work Release and Prison. Came home completed 2 more years on parole. And here I sit very humble and grateful.

My reason for being here is that I do not have a social life since coming home. And I need to met new people and make lifelong friends. Real Friends. It is so nice to have someone to talk to. That understands me, thanks PTO.

If ever I can help someone. Please don't hesitate to ask.
Good luck to all and God's speed on your loved ones coming home.

:cuffs: Kathy:cuffs:

I Just wanted to say "CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE HERE WHO DID TIME AND IS MAKING IT!! I am also A Ex Offender and Learned My Lesson as Well. I have been home now 6 years and Dont Plan On EVER Doing Anything Again To Loose My Freedom!!

I served 2 (3) year bits in michigan. I'm on parole now and wondering how in the hell I could have been so stupid."Twice!"

Only did 9 months. I was incarcerated for a total of a year though. Three months in jail. 9 months in state jail/prison. Having a difficult time finding housing because no apartments in Texas want to rent to an ex con for drug possesion. I'm not currently doing anything illegal and I don't plan to go back, but I'm looking at the real possibility of homelessness.

.I SPENT 90 DAYS IN A WOMENS COUNTY JAIL.
IN 1993 1 FELONIE COUNTS OF DELIVERY OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, AND 1 POSESTION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE.
I WAS FACING UP TO THREE YEARS.
BECUASE OF THE AMOUNT OF COCANE THAT WAS FOUND.
BUT GOT 90 DAYS AFTER GOOD TIME AND 2 YEARS PROBATION, FINISHED PROBATION AFTER 1 YEAR.
THE WARENT WAS NOT FOR ME IT WAS FOR MY MAN. BUT I TOOK THE BLAME FOR THE DRUGS. I FEEL THAT IS THE ONLY RESON I GOT THE TIME I DID. BECAUSE THEY WERE AFTER HIM.
AND ACTUALLY BUILDING A CASE AGAINST HIM. A FEW MONTHS AFTER MY REALSE THE FEDS GOT HIM. HE WAS SENTENCE TO 11 YEARS UNDER THE MANDOTORY SENTENCEING.
HE WILL BE OUT IN A FEW SHORT MONTHS!
FIRST AND LAST TIME IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW

I was arrested on Oct.3 and was let out on $25,000 sig. bond by the judge on Oct.9 2003. I was locked up in Warren County,in Warren, Pa. i was arrested on 2 felony 3's. Which were later dropped completely. I just turned 18 in july..so i just passed the 'adult' line,which sucked pretty bad. Jail was a rude awakening for me..it showed me how much i was missing and all that good stuff.. I definelty do not want to see the other side of the glass again..

Lots of petty stuff and time in good ole Smith County here in Tx...finally...due to priors...got busted and bumped up to a felony...I chose to serve my time instead of taking five on paper cuz I wuz all strung out...well...let me tell you...that wuz THE BEST DECISION I HAVE EVER MADE IN MY LIFE!!!...I got sentenced to six months state jail time and wuz put in the MTC program at Woodman State Jail in Gatesville,Tx...I got out Oct.2002 and have been "clean" since!!!...YEAH!!!:)...Unfortunately...I know that going to prison is not everyone's "rock bottom" but...it sure the hell wuz for this chick!!! I will NEVER go back...I am what all my friend's call "STRAIGHT EDGE" now...lmao...never thought JoJo would be called "straight"...hehe...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

My name is Mandy. I just got out of prison Dec 8th 2003. I was incarcerated at NCCIW in Raleigh. I was there for 2 years

People who knew a long time ago would never have imagined me in prison. I was a high school football star and a decent college player. Won tons of trophies as an amatuer boxer and later in taekwondo. Have never drank, have never, not even once, tried weed or drugs. Served with distinction in the Army as a Ranger (Hooah!), bronze star and two purple hearts.

Fast forward a few years. Was dealing major amounts of weed (up to a ton a month). Was involved in two shoot-outs in Mexico. Once with corrupt Federales and once with other dealers. Was marched out into the desert at gunpoint by two flunkies to be left there, things did not work out that way for them. What happened I don't talk bout but I have not set foot in Mexico since. A hitman came to my house and tried to shotgun me to death, chalk up another.

In the end I was set-up for a buy by a DEA informant. Was taken down by a Fed SWAT team in Del Rio, Texas and did 74 months. Three Rivers, in the FCI and the Camp. Lost everything. Wife, Daughters, friends, home, all of the neat sh!t that I had as a dealer like motorcycles, boats, cars.

Was released in May of 2001. On paper until 2006. Not easy and life seems kind of dull, but as long as I have my bike and I can get the front wheel into the air, I'll be okay!

my name is shane i had a 3 yr sentence. i did all my time in kilby in mt meigs al. i did 15 months to eos. i got youthful offender and was able to join the marine corps. im now a veteran whose has served in oif and am going back soon for a 14 month tour. i can tell you prison was far better than iraq at least no one shot at you.

I have done time at both a federal camp (Petersburgin 1989) and Low Security (Butner, NC) most recently (26 months). I spent 13 months of that 26 in the FDC in Denver which was max (like a jail). I have flown on con-air about 8 times and spent a total of 3 months in Oklahoma FTC and 4 weeks in Atalanta USP holdover. So while I was a white collar criminal, I have experienced the best that the BOP has to offer! Right now I am on parole/supervised release and I hate it. My po is a jerk (the other po's don't even like him).

I did two years at the Iowa correctional institution for women in Mitchelville Iowa. My charges... 3 state, 1 fed. All were concurant, all stemed from the same incident. State, misdameanor gun charge for a black powder pistol with no firing pin that was in a car registered in my name{even though I was no where near the car and it was in a different county than I was in} I was innocent of that charge but I plead guilty. I discharged it in prison. State, conpiracy to commit a felony. I rented a motel to party and get high in, the motel was in my name. The drug was meth. I was guilty and I plead guilty. state, possesion w/intent of 5 grams or less of meth. I was guilty, plead guilty. Federal, In the motel room They found a 9mm hand gun. It was not mine, it was in a mans bag. The feds picked up the gun and charged me with being a drug user in possesion of a fire arm, the motel room was in my name. Wanting to spare the guily party who's gun it was I plead guily.I wouldn't cooperate and tell them who it belonged to. there were three other people in the motel room. I had not been in any trouble before that. The feds bought a contract with the womens state prison so I had an option to go there and be closer to my family so I took it and did my time there. My federal sentence was 24 months. I served it all, no halfway house because I had to wait to get a parloe on my state charges for drugs. I got arrested on all these charges may 31 2000. went to prison an these charges june 2001 and I've been out since june 2003. I have 2/12 years left on my federal supervised release and 2/12 years left on my state parole. I've been clean since my arrest date on may,31 2000. I have changed my life,and got saved. My step son was just sentenced to 5 years, Federal. My husband LWOP federal for conspiracy to manufacture meth on the 3 strikes law so one could say that even though I've done my time I still have a federal life sentence.

Whoops!! I meant to say I have 2 & 1/2 years left on my supervised release and parole.

Hi, I am posting for my brother who has spent 11 yrs in Missouri's Correctional Facilities. (Church Farm, Algoa, Tipton, NECC, Tipton, and Farmington...to name a few) JC was released in Aug 2003 and paroled out to New Mexico to live with me. He is now 35 and trying to adjust to life in the "free world". I hope that he will find some support and comfort here....just knowing that he is not alone in the difficult adjustment of coming back into society.
Thank you,

JC and his lil sis

Hi, JC and lil sis,

Welcome aboard PTO!

The adjustment to the outside can be and is difficult at times. It takes patience, but it can be and is done everyday! There are lots of folks at PTO that have been through the mill and have come home successfully, I know JC you are going to be one of them, especially with your little sister and in your ball court!

Take a look around the forums and see the wonderful people here, they have been so wonderful to me and my family and to many, many others.

When you are ready - introduce yourselves in the Introduction forum at the top of the main page.

So, pull up a chair and sit with us for awhile, become part of the family, and we will all help each other get through each day.

Patti

Hello, I was incarcerated at CCWF in chow chilla california,for 1 year in 1999, I was convicted for possession of a controlled substance /for sale.
It was my first time ever going to prison and my last.
I do however have to admit that it was a well learned lesson about what freedom means to me.
I kearned a lot about the prison system and the people in them both inmates and CO's. I have been crime free ever since and have no intentions on ever going back, except that is for visiting my dear friend who is still there on a 15 to life plus 6 yr sentance, she is currently on her 10th yr ...
I dont have a lot of faith in the system and most likely never will.
But I am here to help others who are in the many california prison system!
I am currently trying toapply for my rehabilitation cert but have found out i have to wait 7 years not five, since the law was amended . so I have 2 more years to wait they tell me, although I am researching the law and trying to find some recorse to accomplishing this goal of getting a full pardon.
It is very unlikly that that will ever happen due to the fact very few have been fully pardoned. I feel that Drug users should all be able to expunge thier records even if they did prison time, because it is not a violent crime.
I cant believe i have to get a pardon for a crime that is not violent. and to have to wait 7 years is too much!
How can it be that they (the government) will let me vote, but wont allow me to get certain licenses to open up a business or become active in a career they want to persue? I want my rights back, Why is it so hard to get that done ... never mind ...dont answer that ... i already know the answer!

Tanya

From my one and only case, I did 5 months in county jail, then on to California Institute for Women (CIW) yep, I was in with the Manson family girls and all the other famous California krazies :) then another transfer to CRC for 20 months, then 2 years parole....all this before I was 22...I have been home for over 15 years and it's been hard, I come here from time to time looking for support.

I Was Committed To California Youth Authority When I Was A Minor,age 12, Served 3 Years. I Was In Camarillo School For Girls,
However It Was Co-ed When I Was There. I Orginially Went In With
9 Months, Seemed Like I Got In More Trouble And Kept Getting Time
Added, Finally Release Shy Of My 16th Birthday. It Tripped Me Out
Some 20 Years Ago, When I Got Stopped By A Cop For Speeding And
He Mentioned That I Had A Cdc # On My Record Sheet. Yes Today At
45, I Still Have That Cdc # From Cya, I Am Not Proud That I Robbed
People's Houses, And Committed Assualt, But I Am Not Ashamed For
Being In The System, It's Just One Of Those Things. I Have Learned
Alot From Those Days, And It Has Stuck With Me Threw All My Adult
Hood, My Husband Is A Convict, And All Tho He Has Made Mistakes And Is Back In Custody For A Tech Violation I Am Not Ashamed Of Him Nor His Past. We All Have To Do What We Have To Do To Survive
In This Place Called Earth. Luckily I Have Not Returned To Prison
In All These Years, And I Hope That I Never Find Myself In A Situation Where That Could Happen. There Was Another Thread That
Said Would You Go To Jail, Haven't Read It, But If I Had To Change
Places With My Husband, I Would. Life Is To Short As It Is To Have
Regrets.

I have never had a parking ticket but I got 24 months after a federal conviction.
My time was spend in Chicago's MCC, New York City's MCC, Danbury, Oklahoma FTC, and Pekin FPC IL. The charge was conspiracy to commit fraud.
I came out in 1999 and completed my probation in 2003. I am about to receive my Bachelor's degree and heading to grad school late 2004.
The only thing i enjoyed in prison is teaching creative writing and inspiring women to get their GED. The only thing I couldn't handle in prison was seeing so much injustice.
Peace

Did 3 Years At California Youth Authority, Camarillo School For Girls Back
In The Mid 70's. My Sentence Was 9 Months, But Being A Stupid Idiot, Wound
Up Serving A Total Of 3 Years Instead. Was In For Residental Burguries, 25 In All, Assualt, Grand Theft, Grand Theft Auto. I Was 12 When I Went In, Shy Of My 16th Birthday When I Came Out. Haven't Broken The Law In Any Shape Or Form Since Then And I Am 45 Now. Have A 19 Yr. Old Son Who Thank
God Never Followed In My Foot Steps, But I Am Married To A Convict Who Is
Currently In Sq On A Parole Violation. Maybe This Time He Will Get The Hint
That Prison Isn't Living, It's Dying. He Is A 2nd Striker.

State of Missouri DOC Jan. 1996- Dec. 2000. Burglary 2 reduced to Receiving Stolen Property, with a Felony Bad Check thrown in for good measure by the PA. Served 11 months then was paroled to Honor Center. Completed that program, served exactly one year on parole, and was sent back on a PV, and completed my sentence.

I served a 9 month stretch at Dobbs Training school as a juvenile in Kinston, N.C. In 1996 I did a six month bid, 3 months at High Rise Youth Institution in Morganton, N.C. and 3 months at Morrison Youth Institution in Hoffman, N.C.

I am Joyce and I spent 8 months at Alderson FPC in WV til I suffered a brain aneurysm requiring immed. surgery which left me unable to walk thus i was transferred to Carswell FMC to serve my remaining 5 months:fb: :ha: :pissed: Alderson was my first experience of any kind with the prison/jail system and quite honestly was not a bad place, however Carswell was VERY different!!:smash:

Welcome to PTO. I'm so sorry to learn of your surgery outcome!

I am Joyce and I spent 8 months at Alderson FPC in WV til I suffered a brain aneurysm requiring immed. surgery which left me unable to walk thus i was transferred to Carswell FMC to serve my remaining 5 months:fb: :ha: :pissed: Alderson was my first experience of any kind with the prison/jail system and quite honestly was not a bad place, however Carswell was VERY different!!:smash:

Hello everyone, I've been out almost 3 months after a 3 years in a N. Calif womens prison. Life is good out here!! I left a couple of very special friends who don't have a parole date. Please cherish your freedom as there are so many who may not ever have the chance to. Jeanette

Welcome to PTO Jeanettie!

Your are so, so right life is good out here! Welcome home! We are praying my roomy makes it home this year, she has been down since 1986. Last year was my year, this year will be hers, I pray.

You gave good advice - Cherish your freedom!

Patti

I did 3 months for 13 felony charges with 3 yrs. suspended. 1st time offender with no prior's.
In good ol' Chesterfield Co. Jail--Virginia.
Worst hole in the world.
And learned never trust someone who you thought was a friend or a public defender.
LOL what a wake up.:ham:

Did the normal stupid kid stuff shopplifting, theft, assault so was in and out of juvi from the time I was 9, at 18 did 4 months in Mason county WA for Reckless Endangerment 1, then a few nights in other jails finishing off at 21 years old with 30 months prison time for robbery 24 of which were in WSP 'The Walls' max units 6,7, 8 and 1N/S. Got out '96 with what looks to be one maybe two strikes, haven't been following the laws as closely as I should. At any rate been clean for the whole time and even went on to get an education including a BA from you guessed it UCLA. The kicker is now I have to figure out what to do now. If any one has some ideas of a worthy nature let me know.

hello everyone i did 3 years and 10 months in missouri. im 24 now.i went in 99 and got out in nov2002.im new to this site .so far its great. im glad people have support like this.

Hi everyone, Got out in January 2004 from Valley State Prison for Women in California. Time is flying by, unlike the time spent on the "inside." Seems like theres just not enough time in the day to get all I want to get done. Spent 3 years on a 5 year term. 17 of those months spent in a SAP located inside the prison. Really can't say anything good about the SAP. There's just as much "game" in their idea of a drug program as there is on the streets. Thank god for the support of family and close friends. Also the support of PTO keeps me in touch with whats going on "inside" and reminds me daily that it's not the place I ever wan't to be again. Three trips to "state" was three to many. I keep in close contact with two friends who are "lifers" at two different California Prisons and forward information to them that I hope they find helpful. Just because I'm not "inside" today doesn't mean that it won't ever happen again. There are many locked up who are not guilty of any crime. It's one day at a time and keep the company of positive people. Take care and have a great day.

Hi!
I'm David and did 3 flat in Texas - 2 at the Duncan unit in Diboll and 1 at the segovia unit in Edinburg. I know, I know.... I'd never heard of these places either!
Been there, Done that, told them they could keep the damn shirt!

My name is Tom and I did 3.5 in Arizona (Douglas, Safford, and Ft.Grant). I am also one of the luck ones here. I took a plea from the state (conspiricy to distribute), which was the only change against me that they could not prove (because it was'nt true). The judge sentanced me to 3.5 to 5yrs. About 4 hours later, the Feds came and served me with the same 5 charges that the state dropped!

About a year into my state time, I was transferred to the federal prison in Tucson, AZ to stand trial (and without a leg to stand on, really!). All the charges that I faced were a matter of fact and record,... and the fed's have something like a 98% conviction rate. I was looking at a minimum of 15 years,.. mandatory.

Then a miracle happened - I got a good public defender (court appoointed private atty.). He'd worked at the justice dept. and had read a memo by Janet Reno stating that the practice of picking up charges after a plea had been reached required her personal approval. I guess he had a private talk with the proscesacution and convinced them to avoid the embarassment of explaning why he was violating his boss' own written policy.

They took their time sending me back to state custody,.. about 4 months. I stocked up on cheap federal smokes, free sodas in the chow hall, and even managed to wear my federal boots back to the state pen! Except for the stress, it was kind of like a mini vacation.

Then a miracle happened - I got a good public defender (court appoointed private atty.). He'd worked at the justice dept. and had read a memo by Janet Reno stating that the practice of picking up charges after a plea had been reached required her personal approval. I guess he had a private talk with the proscesacution and convinced them to avoid the embarassment of explaning why he was violating his boss' own written policy.



This is information that can help my fellah. Thank you Dancing Tom!!!

I did four and half in Arizona State Prison (Walls 1975-1979) three more in Federal Correctional Inst Ashland, Kentucky (80-83) Two more for Arizona State Prison (Picacho, the walls and Douglas) 86-89) and eleven flat for the feds (1992-2003) FCI Phoenix, USP Lompoc, and FCI Sheridan. Twenty years total. Been out 5 and a half months. Still have a two and a half year tail. 56 years old, Vietnam veteran.

i did 16 months on a 3year sentences on the hobby unit in texas, not nice im 47 now i got out may 8th 2002 and off parole feb 2004 been out 2 years and i hope i never have to got back in side i go to two different units here in texas every other week end my sons in add seg on the fergerson unit he's been locked up for 6 yr 5mo and my husband on the boyd unit he getting out in 5 months i meet tony 4 day before he got picked up on a vioation and fell deeply madley in love and married him jan 12,2003 by proxy everyone thinks ive lost my mind but i know ive found my true love
:) :thumbsup: LADYFREEDOM45:) :thumbsup:

Howdy...

My name is Greg. I served 2 sentences at Oxford FPC totalling almost 26 months. Both were for bank fraud, and stemmed from the same incident, not different crimes. I was prosecuted by one bank in 1995 and another in 2001. I owned a finance company and "embellished" credit applications to enable people to get loans they would not have normally gotten. I did 12 months in '96-'97 and 18 in '02-'03. I went to Oxford both times, as I live in southeastern Wisconsin.

I've been active in prison related issues since my release in April of '03, having been the moderator of the Federal Prison forum at PTO's new sister penpal site: www.LostVault.com (http://www.lostvault.com/), and answering various questions and concerns on a few other sites as well.

I'm looking forward to being a part of your community here...

Greg aka EF

OK, apart from getting in trouble when I was 13 for a string of burglaries, I was incarcerated for 2 years out of 6, I have now served over half of my parole-I spent my time in Goulburn Jail in New South Wales Australia, it is 150 yrs old and looks it, it was for drug offences, faced 25 yrs for my first offence, as above got 6yrs on top. Got to spend some time in a fancy pre-fab Wackenhut prison for a while, what a holiday, if anyone is interested Goulburn is called "the killing fields" by inmates, worst prison in oz, where I went for my first taste, due to where I live, very nasty indeed, it houses about 600 inmates in 4 wings-like the old Brittish jails you see, infested with cockroaches, lucky to have a working bar heater and a light at the same time, WWII blankets, filthy mattresses, no furniture, old school jail-bloody horrible-will never grace it with my presence again, take care--DODGIE--

OH, if anybody can tell me how to direct chat on here if it is possible I would greatly appreciate it, thanks

Thought I should finally say hi since I have been reading these for a while. I spent 18 months at Lowell CI in Florida and 4 years 3 months at TPW in Tennessee before getting out October 8, 2002. My wild days when I was younger cost me alot but now a little older and a whole lot wiser. Still on paper but thanks to a very special person having a great life. Peace.
Kim

Hi all, :) I was arrested for armed robbery in October 1969. For the next decade I was confined inside maximum security prisons in New South Wales, Australia. I escaped twice. Once from the Sydney Court of Criminal Appeal and the second from the then State Penitentiary at Long Bay in Sydney. I was recaptured and charged with further bank robberies as an escapee. My final sentence was 18 years with 8 on the bottom. I served 11 years - classified as an intractable prisoner for escapes, attempt escapes and assault prison guards. I did just on 9 years confined in isolation and solitary (now they call it admin seg-same shit different name). In 1975 they built the first supermax prison in Australia called Katingal Special Security Unit. I was the third man in and the last man out when the government shut the place in 1978. I am the only Australian prisoner to have served the longest time isolated inside Katingal.

I was released from prison on parole in June 1980 and flirted with freedom until 1983 when I was falsely accused of murder and did another 2 year stint in max until I was acquitted at trial in April 1985.

I again flirted with freedom until 1991 but unfortunately I became vocal in the Sydney media concerning prisons, police corruption and the rewarding of criminal/prisoner informers. The Sydney Major Crime Squad and their Task Force Magnum (every corrupt last one of the mothers!) decided to take me off the street and falsely accused me of an armoured van robbery in another State. I was extradited to Queensland and thrown in another max prison staring down the barrel and five life sentences for robbery with violence and attmpt murder.

They arrested two blokes for a series of armoured van robberies including the one I was wrongfully imprisoned for and a supreme court judge ordered my immediate release with a "whoops, sorry about that!"

I had lost everything my home, business, and eventually my marriage. I sought compensation from the government amd got caught in a quaint catch 22 - The Queensland government said they put me in prison on the information supplied by the NSW Police Force (Task Force Magnum) acting in good faith and pushed the argument that NSW was liable for my wrongful imprisonment. The NSW government said they supplied information acting on the word of a criminal informer but they did not put me in jail therefore Queensland was liable. I fought that catch-22 legal battle until August 1996 -when I realised I had no show of beating either government I went back to my old stock in trade and held up a bank in Brisbane in September that year.

We were captured shortly after the bank robbery but the sentencing judge set a precedent in my case by ruling that the years of wrongful imprisonment I had experienced should be compensated and he compensated me in the form of 10 years and 3 on the bottom. My mate got 6 with a 2 on the bottom. I got out in 4 on parole and they shipped me back to NSW. Since my release in October 2000 I have been on parole in rural NSW studying and doing a bit of writing.

I have done 18 years in round figures 3 of those years I wasn't good for the crime they put me in there for. But you don't get any sympathy from the Australian legal system if you are innocent. If you want sympathy it is in the dictionary. It's between shit and syphillis. How did I survive? By maintaining the rage. :angry: cheers all.

ps The majority of detectives who operated as Task Force Magnum finally came unstuck during the 1996 Wood Royal Commiission into the NSW Police Force for assortment of crime including drug dealing, perjury, aiding and abetting armed robberies and a host of other corruption. They were dismissed from the police force. What goes around comes around! :thumbsup:

I served 15 years of a 27 1/2 to Life sentence for Murder in the second degree, which was later reversed after spending 8 years learning the law myself due to ineffective assistance of both trial and apellate counsel. My incarceration started in Philadelphia, and went through Rikers Island, Elmira Correctional Facility, Coxsackie Correctional Facility, Elmira again, Clinton Correctional for 8 years, and finally was released from Rikers Island in 1995 after conviction was reversed in a twenty four page scathing opinion which attacked the trial judge, prosecuter and two attorney's (both assigned).
I have a vast knowledge of New York State correctional system, and also knowledgeable in civil and criminal law on a state level, and federal appellate level for state convictions, or for torts. I am available to assist anyone I can, so feel free to chat in chat room, or pm me.

hi my boy is sentenced to 9 years 5 mandatory for havina a weapon under disability. he also was caught with a reasonable amout of cocaine half kilo, he has never been in jail, he was at someone elses house when probation officers came, and they searched his bag after he kept yelling for a search warrant, his lawyer tried to get the evidence surpressed but as the judge heard the case he could not make a ruling, after waiting about 2mo first the judge was going to surpress it, but then he did not according to my sons papers, makes no sense, so now I am crushed cause he is my only child, can you give me any hope, do you think he will get out early or what thank you so much fir listrening to me

I spent the last 9 years of my life in 2 different Arizona prisons. I was released in August.

I spent two years in a minnesota prison, caught a violation and spent an additional 3 1/2 I was released last year. I am off paper shortly... One more probation visit...

:D I've been in and outta jails in Texas for almost 20 years now. I was arrested for possession of marijuana @ 18 in Jersey Village, Tx. From there I spent time for theft, evading arrest and several other felonies in Harris County. In 1989 I picked up a deuce (2 year felony) on a PIA (Parole in Absentia) outta Harris County, I served 3 months and 18 days before being paroled without any gate money. 2 months later I robbed 2 convenience stores in a stolen car and picked up a 28 non-agg (2nd degree - 3g.) I served 6 years, 1 on Coffield, and 5 on Gib Lewis. I served another 6 on parole before I was revoked for going to Indiana without permission, but over that 6 I had been arrested a few times. I wasn't an angel. I have just got out after serving 2 years and 9 months on that technical violation. I was on Byrd (Diagnostics), and Torres. Since they revoked me I filed for all of my incarcerated time to apply to my sentence and so actually I have served 10 flat on my 28. I'm praying I can hang out with winners for the next 18. I don't know it all, but I like to help. Ask me if you need anything.:D

Hi, my name is "JJ". I was arrested in 2001 at 17 for 2nd degree Arson. Spent time in Juvenile, then moved on to 3 different county jails (all while awaiting sentencing for the Arson). While in county I got charged with 3rd degree Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer. After being senteced I ended up with a term of 21 months prison time (credit for county) and 2 years of probation. I did 19 off of 21 (8 in county, 11 in prison) and am currently on probation with 10 months left. I spent my prison time in Lowell C.I. Womens Unit. And I never intend to go back!
JJ

JJ, you've made it this far with a short time to go on paper. Ya gotta take credit when credit is do and all this will fad in time.

Keep on keeping on and you'll do just fine.

I did 8 years in oklahoma, mostly in medium sec; Was in the Walls once for about 4 months. I paroled to Texas and haven't stepped foot in Okla. but twice; once for a Turner Falls campout and the second was a really brief visit to Tulsa to pick up family--which all by itself nearly turned out to be an ordeal with the police but was averted thru fast thinking and faster driving. Like most ex-felons I realize that future incarcerations don't require any actual violations, merely opportunistic law enforcement.

Does jail time count to post in this thread ? I did 13 days at the Polk County jail in Florida. For poss. of cannibis. And no it really wasn't mine. All that's over with now. BTW Polk County jail is, (what i've heard, the worst jail in the U.S.)It's the only one i've been in, and it was the worst if you ask me.

8 yrs in South Carolina. wrong man. I am not claiming to be an angel either. was a dope head and alcoholic most of my young life. sober for 16 yrs now. self trained and professed legal wizard and advocate for prisoner convicts and moral support their families. Board member of SPAN (S.C. Prisoner Advocacy Network), work pro bono with Innocence Project, and communicate with prisoner/convicts through us mail. Now I am here to offer my assistance to anyone who needs it. I feel I have found a new home with PT.

Okay, So i know i've been hoofin it around here on PTO for quite some time and realized ive never posted on here so i thought what the heck...

I visited our lovely state penal system in Minnesota. Hit every prison within Minnesota's DOC except for Rush City and the womens prison in shakopee of course. I guess i grew up in prison with the best of my years being spent there. 19-26 Incarcerated for almost seven years. Ive been out since 2003 and am off paper now.

Hey all ... Did 3 years behind the fence and finished up with 7 more at Talladega FCI and the Camp respectfully. I was the resident bookie!
They said I laundered a few Billion...but who knows for sure. I'm very active in the legalization of Pot. They are really taking advantage of this fine herb. Too many non-violent folks are getting their lives ruined for this.
Will help anyone who needs info on Fed. Prisons.

I did two separate six month bids in Federal Prison Camp, Schuylkill. One for the original offense and one for a probation violation. Yeah, I had the audacity to get a credit card in my own name. Shame!

Anyway, I've also been locked up in Cayuga County Jail in upstate NY for a few weeks. Worst place in the world, and the guards were just jerks.

As a former L.E.O. and C.O. I know how to treat people and what should be expected from both sides of the fence, and I must say that in all my travels I have never run into more inept, insecure and low life guards as those in Cayuga County Jail.

Anyway....

Hi, I am fairly new to PTO, just stumbled across the site while doing some research on the web. I did 7-1/2 years in the Indiana Department of Correction, then 2 years on parole and I have been done with it for almost 2 years now.

I want to welcome all of the new members of the Straight Talk Forum!

It is good to have members who can help those who are just starting this journey tha we have already taken.

Please sit down awhile and grab a cup of coffee and join us!

Patti

hi every one i am out of prison now for almost 4 months. i was sentenced to prison 5 times starting in 1986 i did time in florida, virginia, and the feds all over the us. i have no paper whatsoever. i have been blessed beyond belief through this tragic time in my life. i am an alcoholic/addict who is in recovery i hav'nt touched anything for over 5 years. it's time i started to give back what has been so freely given to me i am convinced if i can make it back from this trip through hell. anyone else can if they know for themselves they don't want to ever live like they used to. there is help out here for anyone who desires it. the person you love or if it is you who has theese kinds of problems. you do'nt ever have to come out and be alone. trust me i know what i'm talking about if you have any questions please ask me i will do anything i can to help. it is a mandate for my life. bless all of you!!

freedave05,

First of all, Welcome Home! The best time there is! Second of all, Welcome to the PTO Family!

I know that you can help in many ways and maybe ease some of the concern and fear that those on the outside have for their loved ones still incarcerated.

So, please, pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee and join our family! It is good to have you with us.

Patti

Hi I just got out about six weeks ago after doing seven years in the Kentucky Correctional Institution for Women. The State of Kentucky has only one womens prison,But several Halyway houses.This is a way to cattle people. So they cram people in thease places and and call it a good thing.I am just really happy I made it out and I am looking forward to a new life. I have a small program I started while I was inside it's called Get Out And Stay Out. I have alot of info on the KY State Parole Board and other worth wild things to know.

Congratulations on your release and best of luck to you on your new beginning:thumbsup:

vitka555,

Welcome to our family as well!

As you we both know coming home can be just as scary as going in, if not more so. You have made it this far and you will make it out here.

With your help and the program you created while in - others will make it too!

Welcome to the PTO Family! Glad you have joined us!

Patti

:idea: I served time from 1986 to 2004 in the Iowa doc.I finally quit being childish and grew up enough to take a realistic shot at staying out but like everything else in life it is a real struggle to adapt to the ways of a world that at times seems has passed me by.:eek:

Welcome Aboard xconz!

Glad to have you join the PTO family!

I did not do close to 16 years, but believe me I know the feeling that "time passed me by"!

Your home now and yes it is a struggle, but well, well worth it!

Patti

I was a guest of the detention center in Davidson county for 8 mos. First and only time being incarsarated. I was incarsarated for conspircy to committ armes robbery. My son and his friends stole my gun and robbed a store and then went and broke into his fathers home and stole a 9mm and other things.....So they got me for a B&E and I was not even there. The DA said because I did not turn my child in I was guilty to..Maybe I was wrong but that was my child.

Hi, computerbug1!

Welcome to PTO!

Glad to have you join the PTO Family!

Please, pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee, and join the conversation!

Patti

As a teenager, I seen 'jail' several times, but never got in any major trouble.

In 1996 I was charged and convicted of B&E, 2nd degree burglary, conspriacy to commit armed robbery, and accessory after the fact of murder.
I pulled all my time in the state of NC, including the Iredell County Jail, NCCIW in Raleigh, and FCCW in Rocky Mount.

I've been out of prison since 11/98... but am still on paper.
I did 8 mos. in the Davidson County jail for conspriacy and B&E and then 3 yrs. probation and had to make restution.....My son and his friends was the ones to do the crime but because I did not turn my child in I paid the price to....That was my child.....I am completely free of everything now and have learned I don't want to lose my freedom ever again......Good Luck :)

In 1991, I spent a few months at The Ohio Reformatory for Women (ORW Marysville, Ohio) five months at Franklin pre-release. While awaiting extradition and trial. I spent time at Las Colinas in San Diego, Ca and an Ohio county jail for sixty days.

I did three years on paper, I waited three years later to have my record expunged.

Prior to incarceration I worked at SCI Lancaster and Comp Drug Half Way House. (male facilities).

I just had my 13 year anniversary of being released on April 10th, 2005.

I had already signed in here back in 2002 bragging about being off parole for 2 years. Well that was short lived. I just paroled off a brand new CDC number, I got out December 23, 2004. I did a 2 of a 4 year sentance for robbery. I guess I wasnt as done as I thought I was. I managed to pick up my second strike on this last case. Next trip in is for 25 to life. So now I'm doing something different. I'm in a recovery program. I go to N.A meetings on a regular basis. I'm still married to the same guy I had before, Robbie. I'm trying to take my life back. I'm 33 years old and have spent the last 16 years of my life in and out of prison. You do the math, that's alot of years I spent wasting away. It's kinda sad that it took a second strike to pull my head out of my ass and figure out that there is another way of living. Oh well, the only thing that matters is that I finally figured it out and now I'm doing the right thing.

Howdy Good people, My name's Dave, and I recently spent 4 months in Wolston Correctional Centre (although how much correcting it did to anyone is a matter for debate). I got a 2 year sentence, suspended after 4 months, but I have to be a good boy for the next 4 years. Urk. Oh well, at least I didn't have to worry about applying for parole, and that kind of business.

I have just learned of the PTO. My name is Cry. I am a 2tx loser who did 4yrs. flat the first time and fought 6-L's under the 3X law the second tx. Gratefully I did 7yrs. flat the 2nd tx. I have been home for 3 yrs. now and I am off parole. I can not say it has been a bed of roses. But hey at least I am not waitin' fer count to clear.

Hello, and welcome to one and all, I've been hanging around PTO since August '05 and never knew this was here, I did 1yr. of 1yr.1day to 3yrs,3days. I just got off of paper April 21, '05, the same day my son came home from NYDOCs, he now has paper until 2012. Hopefully we will both stay on the outside. I think I got pretty lucky only having to do a year. I'm too old for this _#*_!!!! This is a great place for support and information. Wishing you all, the best of blessings to you and yours.

I have been out of prison 7mos after doing 16yrs flat in Ohio. Don't misunderstand me, I'm loving the free air, but everything has changed so much. This internet is amazing!,the cost to live has skyrocked, and when people find out that I have done time they look at me like I've got a third eye or worse. I got out with nothing and had nothing anymore to come out to, met a great lady who is very loving and understanding but am still having a hard time adjusting to everyday situations. I am not on any paper and that in itself is a relief. At times, I'm just having a hard time coping. Any little hint or help on getting reacclamated would be appreciated. Thanks

I must apologize for being late here.

But, I want to welcome all to PTO! This forum here has been my savior in many cases. Things that I have had trouble dealing with since my release in 2003, when I found others who have had the same or similar situations and how they dealt with has been a great help in my return to the outside.

Please everyone make yourselves at home and join the conversation.

Always remember you are not alone, we have all made it home, and we are here to help each other.

Patti

I have done 20 years in Texas.I have been out for two years now.My charges have always been Burglary,due to a very expensive drug addiction.I decided that life out here is a lot better and I always look forward to helping people out who may need a tip on how to stay out.

Welcome to the PTO Family duckwaves!

Congratulations on being home two years! Each day home is another victory for you!

Grab a cup of coffee, pull up a chair and join the Family and conversation - we are happy you have found us!

Patti

I just served a 12 month sentence at FPC Bryan, TX. I was released March 1, 2005 and did a month in a halfway house. I'm currently on probation and attending school. My purpose for joining is to answer any questions anyone may have concerning what to expect from the system. I went in as a bewildered 20 year old with no idea what to expect. I wouldn't wish that on anyone. Feel free to be in touch.

RELEASED FROM TDC (TEXAS) FOR THE FIFTH TIME. 1978-2005 SEEN IT ALL. ANY QUESTIONS?

I did around 6 years with the Michigan DOC, on three prefixes. I straightened out though and discharged seventeen months ago after a year on parole. I've been on tether, in the corrections center, and have made a few trips up over the bridge on the 'snow bird'. I live in Jackson (which was once home to the world's largest walled prison before the Fed decree made the State break it into smaller facilities). If anybody is from MI holla ar ur boy. Peace, take care all... -John

Hello
I spent my 2 year "vacation" in several fine establishments. FCI Taft both camp & low side then San Burnadino then Terminal Island then finally the county jail where I fought my last case and was finally released.

Hey all,
I am not new to PTO however I am new to this forum.
I am from Mississippi where I served 18 months in the MDOC. I am still on Parole with less than 6 months to go. PTO has helped me so much, I hope I can help others like you all have helped me!

Hi,

I am here..I have done my time and there is a link in my sig that tells some of my story..

I was convicted in Ohio and was not from there, but had to do my parole there as well...

hello!

I did 6 months Federal Detention Center Houston.

Did 1827 days TDCJ 1992-1997
Hughes Unit
Hobby Unit (Pre-Female)
Goree
Dibol
:angry:

I was just released from custody in Ky in March 2005. I served 21 1/2 months on a 7 for trafficking weed more than 8 oz less than 5 lbs, possession of meth, and possession of weapon during drug offense. I was using meth IV to the tune of about $500.00 a day and selling weed, meth, pills, coke, whatever I could to support my habit. I am clean now for almost 27 months...Thank God!!

Hi my name is Kelli,

And I have been out of prison for almost 3 years. I did 14 months in a women's correctional facility in Mitchellville Iowa. When I first went through the process I was like everyone else, thinking it was like it was on tv. Boy was I wrong. I went to prison for manufacturing meth. And I have to say it turned my life around. Currently i am going to college to be a drug counselor hey even at 32 (b-day is 8/29) I'm learning that you can change your life at anytime!

Hi all,
I've been out for 5 years now. Served 29 months on a 42 month sentence for something that i didnt even do but im sure you know how the story goes. i would go into more detail but im not sure that many would understand. but if you do want to know please feel free to im or pm me. im an open book. the time at WCCW wasnt a pretty thing but i did SURVIVE!!!!!!!
Cass

ohhh i forgot to add that WCCW is Washington Correction Center for Women. at Purdy.

I was a resident of the California Department of Corrections Prison system for 12yrs 10 months. ON MY FIRST TIME EVER BEING ARRESTED! Yes ladies and gentlemen you read that correctly first offense for PC 211(b) and I got 26yrs, (maybe it was due to the 9 counts i was found guilty of) this was back in 1990. (And the twist to my case is that the previous Mayor of our glorious city of San Diego happened to be my trial and sentencing judge good ole Dick Murphy)Anyhow I got out in 2003 and have not been back. Started as a Level 4 and progressively worked my way down to a level 1 in 9 yrs. spent my last 6 yrs 1997-2003 at RJ Donovan and the last 4 of those at the Fire house as an Inmate Firefighter. Took that training and got picked up with San Diego County Fire as a Reserve Firefighter (fought the 2003 firestorm for 12 days) and Currently work at NASSCO as a Supervisor. Hoping when my PO puts in my request for discharge this month (it will be 2yrs on parole) the board grants it.

who are you, how do you know Glenn? Why are you looking for him? I have to know this before I give any information about Kenneth Glenn Milner. I can ask him if he wants to talk to you but I need to know who you are and why you are looking for him first.You can email at *removed per PTO policy*

I was arrested in 1990 for manufacturing and did a year. Got out, violated and did another year. Did all 3 yrs of formal probation to the last day possible. Nothing since:D .

Started out with a breif pretrial stay in CCDC in Elkton MD back in 91. Was charged with attempted murder on a police officer and drug offenses. Got a slap on the wrist, misdemenor assault. 2 years probation with probation before judgment entered after probation. Then had 1 conviction for misdemenor terrorsitic threatening(Domestic with GF). Got 90 days probation in 93. Then in 95 had drug charges against me for possession with intent and manufacturing. 3 days in Gander Hill before making bond. Judge gave 3 years probation. VOP 2 times. Went to serve 3 years Med to Low Security at SCI in Georgetown DE. Did a total of 5 years for lossing good time and a S*** load of write ups. I didn't take crap from any new fish or co there. Well been off paper for a few years and I've really calm down. In my thirites just taking one day at a time. Can say never did Fed time. But, I wouldn't want to do anymore time again personally.

Well this is my first post here on the forum. A little about myself. My name is Jim and I'm an excon . I did over 12 years in the Federal System. Off paper for over 2 years now. I'm taking one day at a time. My friend sent me an email about this website and I'm really impressed. David hat's off too you bro. You've done wonders for this webite. I'm looking to offer any advice to anyone that may be doing Federal time soon. Also, if any has questions please let me know, I will be happy to answer them.

I was in Both Federal and Provincial institutions both in Saskatchewan and Alberta. I think I was just being an insecure jerk acting out against the abuse my siblings and I suffered at an orphanage when we were younger. The abuse was perpetrated by both Priests and Nuns and it severly affected my life and still haunts me like crazy. Anyways, I woke up and looked at my wife and child and said to myself-why am I doing this to them? I never offended again and started a little business fixing electronics and mechanical systems. After a year or so I thought I would pursue a dream I have always had to be a writer (I read a book or two a day while inside at time) At any rate, I was getting published all over the continent, from Chicken Soup to local newspapers. That gave me the courage to approach a Major Radio Station and ask for work. They turned me down the first time, however, they called after 4 months and said they would give me a try. I have now been here working as a Creative Writer for 3 years and was recently promoted to MP3 Traffic Director--life is still hard financially, but freedom is the best currancy I could ever imagine-its paying the way to a great life for my daughter and wife and that makes me happy. To any inside-there's hope, and being a strait joe aint all that bad.

Spent 63 months on a 2-10 behind wall in Jackson.

Been in 3 times, all in Florida, most recent one in 2004. Have I learned? Yes I have!

Did time for possession of stolen property 2x in Michigan first time 40 -60 months 2nd time did time for 30- 60 months and a Parole violation. Been out for 8 yrs now and still being haunted by issues with not being able to work in a respectable place with a respectable job. It is true that we never stop paying for our crime, but I do know that I will never give up the fight. I now have 2 kids and a wonderful woman who deserve all I can give.

I was incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice system for 11 months before I made my first parole. I spent a great deal of my time in Collin County Detention Center, while waiting for my court date as I was a felony probation revocation hold.

I was granted back time, and TDCJ actually got it right! Amazingly enough! I spent time at the Gurney Unit, Bradshaw State Jail, Coffield <only one night, thank GOD!>, and Holliday Units. I was a short timer that kept to myself and didnt get any tats or make any unholy alliances.

I was convicted of Possession of Prescription via Fraud/Subterfuge...Yes, they can and do send people to prison for that!

Glad to be here!

I spent 9 months at NCCIW in NC back in 98-99. I served an 8-10 month felony sentence plus a 30 day misdemeanor sentence. Also did 6 years probation, and as of this past march am finally free!!!!!!! I had charges for felony forgery and uttering and obtaining property by false pretences. The best advice I can give it to stay to yourself. There are plenty of inmates who just want to do there time and go home, just like you. But there are also plenty who just don't care, and if you get in with them it can only be trouble. Also take advantage of every oppoutunity available to you, whether it be taking a class to further your education or working on a job you wouldn't dream of working on the outside. Keep busy and time goes by faster.

I was convicted in Ky in June 2003 and made parole in March 2005. I got a 7 year sentence for trafficking weed more than 8 oz. less than 5 lbs, possession of controlled substance [meth] and possession of a weapon during drug offense. I have been clean for more than 29 months now and my family has been great, we are closer than ever before!! Prison changed my life for the better all the way around, I had to hit bottom before I could dig my way back to a real life!

My name is Ron and I'm an ex-prisoner living in Texas. I did 10 years in the Texas prison system (TDCJ-ID) for voluntary manslaughter and have been out now for about 3-1/2 years. I don't hide my past and I'm not afraid to talk about it. While in prison I was what is known as a "writ writer", and as a result, I was shuffled around to various prisons throughout Texas. Between 1992-2002 I was on the Roach Unit, Estelle Unit, Goree Unit, Ferguson Unit, Allred Unit, Byrd Unit, Pack Unit, Walls Unit, and finally a private pre-release in Overton, Texas. I'm glad to meet you all and if I can be of any assistance please don't hestitate to ask. If I don't know the answer, I often have a pretty good idea of where to find it.

Hello my name is Michael, I was a member here before I was incarcerated on 10-15-2004, I just finished a 15 Month Sentence, and was at the Miami Federal Prison Camp, as well as the new Low Facility FCI in Miami, Its great to be out, and I just want you all to know hopw helpful the sight was prior to me going in to do my time, thanks to you all. If you have any questions I can help you with please feel free to chat with me or post to me at Michael8cars. it was a long road, but I am free.

Michael

:) :thumbsup:

I want to Welcome eveyone to the Straight Talk Forum that have signed in recently!

Good to have you all join us! Michael Welcome Home and back to your PTO Family it is good to see you again!

Patti

Hey this is Misty. I have been in dayton and then was transfered to the hobby unit where I did about 11 months. If anybody has any questions please feel free to let me know.

Hi Misty!

Thank you for signing in, and Welcome to the Straight Talk Forum!

Patti

Misty,
Welcome to Straight Talk!

hello,

Adil from FCI Lompoc

released in july 2004

was in immigration from july till september 2004

now on supervised release :)

Hey everyone. I go by Adam on here...a nickname, you'll understand I think. I've been on PTO for a while but never got around to this.

I got a DUI right out of college in Long Island, NY. I was surprised by my sentence, no jailtime was expected. But Suffolk County has been cracking down on DUI (understandably...I don't hold that against anyone but myself, I deserved to go to jail) so I got 60 days in County. I was released after 45 days for good behavior.

I know it's not much, considering the hard time some of the guys and ladies on here have served, but I try to offer a different approach, that of the shorttimer. I like talking to anyone who might be going to jail for a short time; I have a lot of good advice to offer to make your jail experience a positive thing...BION, it's possible.

Anyone with any questions about jail or specifically the NY system, or even just to chat, please feel free to PM me.

Adam, welcome to PTO and the Straight Talk Forum

Hi Adam,
Welcome to the Streight Talk Forum....

Cass

Names Tim, Shadow been a nickname for awhile. Did a year in IN DOC, released jan 8 04, have some helpful advice for anyone who asks, just send a PM

Well I thought I had posted here ages ago so I guess I didnt. And since Bailey kind of reminded me of this forum last night I thought I had better put in a quick into.
I served time years ago in Canada and spent 6 months of that time in the hole for an attempted escape. I was in Vanier which we referred to as Brampton back then. I believe it is now recently closed. It had a terrible history back then and many changes happened in the Canadian prison system as a result of what went on there during my stay though I was one of many prisoners who suffered that experience. My total time was 1 1/2 years but only 1 year of it was served sentence and 6 months was for the attempted escape that was added on. I was 16 when I went in there, at the time you were considered an adult in Canada at 16, that has since changed.
I also served time for a sorter stint in a middle county of England and my sentence was later revoked on appeal. Ive since received a full pardon in Canada.
Not a whole lot more to add regarding all that except Im till severely clostiphobic (sp) and have a fear of anything around my neck, I wont even wear a turtle neck sweater or put a scarf snug around my neck ever.
Things have changed drastically since then for women prisoners in Canada. Strip searching and naked hog ties for days were the norm back then and I only remember one female guard (who was the worst actually). Guards out of control and very unsafe conditions were also the norm back then. I know prison is not perfect now and probably never will be but Im glad that its not like it had been and there are much stricter regulations in place. Especially for women.
Glad you are all free people and part of PTO !!!!

Hey Witchlin thanks for the re-introduction!

Started my Prison experience at 11 in a place called The NYS Training School For Boys, at Industry NY in 1956. Well, they trained me well, and for the past 46 years I have been in most of the Prisons in New York State, as well as some Federal time in Florida, and Conn. Never got better for me, just worse.
Today, and after doing the longest bid of my "criminal career:) (19 years streight from 1986-2004), I finally put it all together. I'm one of those guys that just got sick and tired of being sick and tired. Made up my mind I was going to stop being a product of the "Corrections Department - (job security), and put a lot of effort into SELF-HELP, giving myself the best education that I could. By the way, I did most of my TIME in the Auburn Corr Facility in NY. Anyway, would be honored to give away my experience to those who may need it so they don't make the same mistakes I did. I'm 61 years old today, and have tossed away 46 years of my life, but on the other side of the coin, maybe there was a reason because I would not be the person I am today without that experience.

born2bfree, welcome to PTO, very glad to have you here!

Hi all,

I've been to this forum before, I just found it again this morning. As my name goes. I'm an ex-inmate. Been home 5 months; did a little over a year in NY, have about 1 1/2 left on parole. I been through so many jails I probably don't remember all of them. :idea:

The hardest thing about being home is I've been unable to find a job, and don't have my old lifestyle.

My .02,

Dan

I served time 1-93 to 10-94, 22 months. Almost 2 years. I usually just call it 2 years. Contra Costa County. California. Chow Chilla and Stockton was where I did my time. First time ever in trouble with the law. This was for something I did not do, but I did not tell. So, I did the time for all the stupid stuff I never got caught doing. 3 years of Parole and a certificate of rehabilitation now. Violent offender. Bad girl gone GOOD...

I have the tee shirt too unfortunatly.I went in on an armed robbery charge at 17 in 1974.I got a year for excape from outside the walls in the Rock(Union Correctional ) Fla. State prison.I spent my last two years in solitary.I paroled in Nov. 1982.

My name is Jeff(reddawg) Igot out 2 weeks ago from allen correctional in ohio.

Welcome Home Reddawg !!!!!

hi, i'm sparky, i've beendoing time for the state of cali on the installment plan since 1974. i've had 3 numbers an have had this one for the past 15 yrs. i was hoping to give it back this last year but i guess they feel i still need to be on it. no, big deal, i've been out for 3 yrs an have done a complete turn around so i don't feel any threat from them if i stay on. i know they have to max me out this year so i'm cool with it. i'm just about finished with my schooling in alcohol an drug counselor as thats where my life is headed to help others where i can. i was a herion addict for close to 30 yrs. i know where it takes you. as they say the joint isn't fun anymore.

I did three yrs. for the feds half in Tallahasse, Fl. and the other half in Bryan, Tx. My charge was Felon with a Firearm. Got out and went to a half-way house for a few months. Got a real good job my first since 1980 and have been keeping my nose clean ever since. Got released at the end of 2002. No more drugs and no more hustling.

I did three yrs. for the feds half in Tallahasse, Fl. and the other half in Bryan, Tx. My charge was Felon with a Firearm. Got out and went to a half-way house for a few months. Got a real good job my first since 1980 and have been keeping my nose clean ever since. Got released at the end of 2002. No more drugs and no more hustling.

Good for you! I introduced myself above. It's nice to hear success stories. I've been unable to find employment since I got home.

Name is Steve, done time in Al. and Fl. systems, Al. being the worst. Draper, Red Eagle, Kilby in Al., and, ACI, Cross City,and Gulf C.I. West Unit in the great state of Fl., Gulf being HELL on this earth! Got out lasst time on 7/9/2000, and trying to stay straight, too old for it anymore, made it to half a hundred, got to settle in. It has been a Long Strange Trip!!!!

Im Nikki and I did some time in the halls as a juvinile and in camp also as a juvinile.Im looking at some time in a possesion for sales case so here I am with the rest of y'all.

To Everyone:
Congratulations on being on the outside. It is interesting to hear that after all of the years inside, some of you are tired of the prison life. I would be interested to know how you are going to stay out of this life after such a long time inside. What is the hardest adjustment that you had to make when outside. Miy friend has been in and out of prison most of his life and it seems that he is bitter and angry. Is this usual? Do you think that he can make it after all of these years? He is 58 with health problems.

You guys are an inspiration.

Superworker

Oh yes, life on the installment plan, been there. Three numbers myself, total of sixteen years state time, Cal. Been home since 2001. Got clean and sober during the last term, although to be honest, not right from the start. I realized that if I could'nt leave it alone inside, then the outside was going to be just more of the same. I now have 8 years c/s and it is a completely new world. Been at the same job since three weeks after my release and doing what I need to do in order to keep on track. Sure there are times when the pressure of being "responsible" seems heavy, but, at the end of the day, I look at what dealing with it has done for me and I know that it's all worth it. I think what helps me is to always remember that my past was nobody's fault but my own, I made the choices, now I have made the choice to do it right. I think for me, the biggest adjustment has been to shake the habits formed over many years. I know that most people don't even think twice about some of the things I am about to say, but, those that have done the time will know exactly what I mean. Respect is a huge thing inside, believe it or not the words "excuse me" are heard more inside than out. When I am in a crowded place I really have to put myself in check, getting bumped into with no apology takes me back instantly, something as small as being in a grocery store and have someone step in front of you to grab something, or worse yet, just step into a line ahead of you. I don't have any problem saying something but I try to do it in a diplomatic way, but sometimes peoples reactions just throw me. When people adopt the attitude that their busy little lives are more important than those around them, that's when I have to take a quick inventory and take a step back. I refuse to let anybody walk on me but I also refuse to give them the power to bring me down. Freedom is a precious thing, I will not let someones ignorance or selfishness jeopardize that. About the question of being bitter and angry, I would have to wonder if that is due to not accepting responsibility for the past. I truly hope that he finds a way to let it go and discover all that life has to offer. Your support and understanding is very important, but the bottom line is that he alone is responsible for his own happiness.

Hi all,

I've been to this forum before, I just found it again this morning. As my name goes. I'm an ex-inmate. Been home 5 months; did a little over a year in NY, have about 1 1/2 left on parole. I been through so many jails I probably don't remember all of them. :idea:

The hardest thing about being home is I've been unable to find a job, and don't have my old lifestyle.

My .02,

DanHI Danee Boy Welcome to PTO i know what you mean about it being hard to find a job. ive been out for almost 6 years now ive only had 1 good job and was laid off from there 3 years ago. good luck to you in finding a good job.

im currently waiting on my better half to get paroled but was curious if anyone has ever been on the Smith farm out in west texas?

Hi Roxysman:
Thanks for the reply. Good luck as I can only imagine how difficult it must be for you. My friend told me that he finds it humiliating living at the correctional centre where he will spend one year before having full parole and then his warrant expires in 2007. I have tried very hard to be gentle, understanding, patient and caring as a friend but it has proven to be difficult at times. I walked on eggshells around him because I knew that he is experiencing a great deal of adjustment on the outside. He told me that it was not easy for him as some of the guys talk to him about crime. Can he successfully reintegrate considering that he lived a better part of his life in jail and probably has a criminal mindset. He said that he cannot believe that he wasted 18 years and more of his life (no offences against women or children).

However, despite all of this we did have a strong connection and we found that we have a lot in common. We went out for coffee one night to talk and he proceeded to take my arm when walking and surprised me with a kiss. I basically told him that we needed to let our friendship evolve and that this took me by surprise. He said " ok I will slow down" then proceeded to want to hold my hand in the car while we drove around the city and talked. He told me that he likes me a lot and has asked me on other occasions to meet his family, go for picnics, go to hockey games, etc and I know that he respects and admires me for my education, looks etc. He said that I was very intelligent, very attractive and very sexy. However, I felt that he was moving too fast because he just got out a few months ago and was anxious to experience a lot of things. This man is intelligent and can be funny and attentive and protective at times. The other part to this is that I worked as a volunteer and would go to chaplain dinners with him and other men on the outside. Since this happened I resigned as a volunteer because I felt that I had crossed a line although I did not initiate this kiss. A couple of days after the kiss, I called him to tell him that I resigned as a volunteer because we had crossed a line and I did not believe in deception. He said that it was very honourable of me and that I had to do what was right for me. I asked him if he wanted to continue the friendship and he said yes. He asked if I wanted a commitment and I said no to commitment and to pressure but I would like him to be the one to phone to arrange to get together sometime since I was no longer a volunteer. He was affectionate with me at what point but what he said was something that I could not reply to at this time. When we said goodbye he sounded angry.

Here is the thing. The next day he told the chaplain, other volunteers and his parole officer that I kissed him and that I wanted an affair with him but he did not want to go to the next level in the relationship. Also he said that I took him home and called him ten times. The question is why is this man lying about me. I had to do some damage control with the chaplain but I am still puzzled as to why this man would lie like this to others when he was the one who initiated this kiss. I wanted to continue to support him and I told him this plus, I have been nothing but kind, gentle and caring towards him and now I was told not to call him or vice versa. I am sitting here shaking my head saying " what happened". I have never got an answer from him because communication has been cut off.

My question is: This man professed to be so happy that at last people cared about him because while inside he though no one cared. He said that he has been rejected all of his life and most people would not give him or others inside the time of day. Knowing this I was careful of his feelings and would encourage and support him and was very kind to him. I really cared for him and most of the time enjoyed being with him. Why would he do this? What did I do wrong if anything. Has he been inside too long? I believe that he will call me again some day because I do believe that he has never met anyone like me who has accepted him for who he is. He said that I never judged him and accepted him fully. He said that he always felt relaxed around me. HUh, I don't understand. Should I understand why he did this and hope that as time passes he will adjust and become more positive. Help me because I do not know if he is capable of changing and being a kind and loving man. Any thoughts?:idea:

Your opinion would be much appreciated.

Hi superworker4u, First off, let me say"WOW". I would never presume to know what's going on in this man's head but I would have to be blind to not see some emotional issues here. Show some care and concern and it's taken as something deeper, feel rejected and lash out, just a little scary, don't you think? I'm not so sure you can chalk that sort of thing up to just being part of adjusting. Everyone does their own time in their own unique way, and in turn, will take their own version of the experience with them. Some will forever have the attitude that the world is out to get them while others will see that they are in charge of their own destiny. I honestly feel that if you seriously want to turn things around, you can, believe me it can be very hard to get past the perceptions that people can have, but in the end it's not about what they think, it's what you think about yourself. I honestly could not call this one, but, I do have one personal rule that has worked for me, give everyone a fair shake, but as soon as they show me that they don't deserve it, I deal with them on a totally different level. "Should I understand why he did this"? Well if you can understand it, you're a better person than me. I would just say- be careful. Good Luck to you and feel free to pm me if you want.

I should have checked in here a year ago. Better late than never though.

I'm Dan, an outspoken renegade ex-con who served many years in NY prisons for a phantom crime never committed. The system stole everything it could from me. I never did let it take control over my mind.

Today life is good. I don't have the money I used to have before the system robbed me, but thanks to being a victim of crimes committed by the State of New York, I now know our criminal justice system as a whole is what it is ... in sad shape. Today I enjoy perfecting appellate briefs and other postconviction applications for both state and federal inmates here and in many other states. Calibrating the scales of justice has become my passion. Giving back to the same system that tried to swallow me whole really is cathartic. It's a medicine I find works very well to control the anger.

And with that ... anybody wants to find me around here, check the legal and controversial threads.

Fed-X: Hell of a thing you've done here. Hat's off to you.

Hi dan, Welcome to PTO and straight talk. Good to have you here.

i, personally, served one year in a washington state prison, and five years on a federal sentence. the feds moved me around a little, i started in mdc brooklyn, went to mcc manhatten, conaired to fpc dublin ca, then to 1/2way house in spokane, kicked out two days before my release date and sent to fdc seatac, then back to same 1/2way house. i was released april 04 with 3 years probation. i am currently a fugitive, preparing to surrender myself on a probation revocation. i dont know how long they will want from me, i am hoping to serve enough time that they will not put me back on paper.

My first experience with "time" was in San Bernadino, CA....I believe it was called the West unit....I don't know that was such a blur (that I was even in jail) and after 10 days I was extradited ANYWAY.

TO TEXAS....where I did alot of time in Bell county Jail....which is perphaps the most overcrowded jail in Texas. Then got probation...got revoked <<<for not reporting UGH and did ALOT of time again.

My experience is no less real than someone who did ALOT of time. I was so COMPLETELY unprepared for "the real world behind bars" that my day for day...most likely equaled most people's year for year. I still have the most intense nightmares...and other symptoms. I was 32 and never...never had even been pulled over before....my view of the justice system (Texas style) is from a complete virgin perspective.

But I made it....and learned ALOT, let me say again learned ALOT and now I fight for a ex-crackhead prostitute who I am honored to call my friend.

Thanks
Cindy

I did five years state time.....

I just got out of Taft CCI so anything you want to know about Taft just ask.

I just got out of Taft CCI so anything you want to know about Taft just ask.

Hi pipercub,

Welcome home and welcome to PTO.

I have done time in Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in New York for 1 year and 1 month for grand theft auto and aludeing policemy name is Yukinoyo but you can call me Yuky

My name is rocker49009 and i was in straits fac, up in the U P, I had a 1 to 5 year
for

I'm only 21 and I'm an ex-con...

I did a year and 15 days...

Got out about 2 months ago and 4 days..

I'm still here.. still breathing and I do hip hop for a living...

BTW.. to all you female COs... much respect especially the ones here in Montreal, QC... don't give up.. I know y'all look up to me... y'all the sweetest and hard working females.. cuz behind every strong man there's a strong lady with him..



peace

Flip_the_myk welcome to Straight Talk. Good to have you here. Congrats on being home.

I have done time in Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in New York for 1 year and 1 month for grand theft auto and aludeing policemy name is Yukinoyo but you can call me Yuky

Hi and Welcome to Straight Talk. Good to have you here. how long you been out hun?

I did five years state time.....

Welcome to the Straight Talk forum, and Welcome home.

I was Facing a Mandatory Minimum Sentence of 25 years, But Only By The Grace Of God I only Had to do One Year with 10 years Probation, and Once Again, Only By The Grace Of God, I completed 5 years of the Probation then went back in front of the Judge, and was Released From the other 5 years due to completion of everything and Good Behavior. And I give GOD ALL THE PRAISE AND GLORY!!! Oh Yeah, I am in Orlando Florida

it seems i am in your position. i'm facing over 25 and it's mandatory. these cops are overcharging me with sh@t i didn't know of. total 12 felonies. they want to make an example out of me and i'm not gonna be their victim. hopefully i'll have a cool lawyer like you. Did they have alot of evidence on u? all my charges are drugs so they are not "violent"

Did 4 years out of 6 in Wisconsin and some brig time in Camp Pendleton.

Peace.

2 Half Years Southwoods Prison/halfway Houses New Jersey

Goodwill and markymark Welcome to the Straight Talk forum.

Hello,
It's officially been over for 2 1/2 years now, released 3 1/2 ago. Im still getting back to normal in little ways but for the most part that "feeling" when talking to normal people when I first got out is gone. (You know that "feeling"). Now it's the nuts and bolts of the wreckage im working on. I'm here because I was looking for resources on the web for ex offenders... Cause I haven’t filed a tax return for 10, 12, 13 years? And I know I need help. I’m glad I stumbled across this site; when I first got out I scoured the web for support groups (like this) but couldn’t find anything. Now when I need to yak I'll know where to come. Id also be interested in listening to others that need to vent, blab- whatever.
Regards,
habilis
PS Any pointers to low or no cost tax related legal aid would greatly be appreciated. Im in the Los Angeles area.

Hello,
It's officially been over for 2 1/2 years now, released 3 1/2 ago. Im still getting back to normal in little ways but for the most part that "feeling" when talking to normal people when I first got out is gone. (You know that "feeling"). Now it's the nuts and bolts of the wreckage im working on. I'm here because I was looking for resources on the web for ex offenders... Cause I haven’t filed a tax return for 10, 12, 13 years? And I know I need help. I’m glad I stumbled across this site; when I first got out I scoured the web for support groups (like this) but couldn’t find anything. Now when I need to yak I'll know where to come. Id also be interested in listening to others that need to vent, blab- whatever.
Regards,
habilis
PS Any pointers to low or no cost tax related legal aid would greatly be appreciated. Im in the Los Angeles area.


Hello and Welcome to PTO and the Straight Talk forum.

I got out of prison in March after doing just over 3 months in Dublin, Ireland. I got a 10 month sentence for assault and criminal damage with 6 months suspended for 5 years. I know this is nothing for many others here but was huge for me. Glad to be out, trying to get my life back together.

Well it seems that times time no matter where u do it, so here goes.

My experience of the British judicial system goes back to juv, with a 3 month "shock" sentance when I was 14. Like a boot camp regime, All it done was give me the hump!

So I.ve done a couple of bits, served 11 and a half years, I looked on it as an occupational hazard at the time. We have a saying over here "if you cant do the time, dont do the crime". No whinging tolerated.

Done 14 month in solitary "the hole to my american friends " unfortunately I didnt agree with their rules! Still dont.But thats another story.

Anyway I dont play that game anymore, its ok if your single otherwise it brings too much heartache for everyone. Lost 2 partners and my daughter over it.

Having said that I had some laughs in there, got to make the best of a bad situation. met some good people, met a lot of scum.

Havent been on pto for a couple of years, been sorting my life out? Trying too anyway. So any questions even out of curiosity about the UK penal and judicial systems I'm your man. :thumbsup:

lol to everyone

Well it seems that times time no matter where u do it, so here goes.

My experience of the British judicial system goes back to juv, with a 3 month "shock" sentance when I was 14. Like a boot camp regime, All it done was give me the hump!

So I.ve done a couple of bits, served 11 and a half years, I looked on it as an occupational hazard at the time. We have a saying over here "if you cant do the time, dont do the crime". No whinging tolerated.

Done 14 month in solitary "the hole to my american friends " unfortunately I didnt agree with their rules! Still dont.But thats another story.

Anyway I dont play that game anymore, its ok if your single otherwise it brings too much heartache for everyone. Lost 2 partners and my daughter over it.

Having said that I had some laughs in there, got to make the best of a bad situation. met some good people, met a lot of scum.

Havent been on pto for a couple of years, been sorting my life out? Trying too anyway. So any questions even out of curiosity about the UK penal and judicial systems I'm your man. :thumbsup:

lol to everyone

Hi colin and welcome to Straight Talk. Good to have you here.

Hello Colin, glad to hear from the UK. I am what is called here in the states as a career criminal. Living a criminal life includes doing time, its just part of it. I spent 35 years pulling crime and loved it. Nothing compares to the rush. Back in the day my crew and I worked the UK. I agree with the part if you can't do the time then don't do the crime. Now that I got old I quit, just didn't have anymore time to give to jail, also most of my crew has been killed off or drugs done them in. I must admit I miss the old ways. Nothing like popping a box and finding goodies.

same as that I'm labelled with the same tag, but like you I enjoyed the gig.

Done things in my life that were amazing, and like u say the rush is immense. Like you I dont fancy giving them any more jail time. But when you get the prize.. yes!!!! Good times, even the jail time on the whole. I trated it like an occupational hazard and that I was a P.O.W. So when in its make yourself comfortable, get fit, and drive the screws (guards) mad! Ha!

Keep in touch nice to meet another pro, too many wannabeees out there, be lucky my friend.

im on my 6th month out this month after serving 85% of a three year sentence for pc 212 (1st degree residential robbery with the use of force and fear) at CCWF chowchilla California this was my first and only felony conviction. i am now on high control parole and will have to do my full three years parole. it sucks but im on my way to getting my life on track.

I was a guest of the State of Maryland, at Jessup, from 1995 to 1997. 36 month sentance. Maxed out at 28 months. Walked out a free man. As free as a felon can be I guess. Did my time with other white male drug offenders. Got only into to altercations with 2 inmates. Did my full stretch in Gen Pop. Got tested my 3rd week in. Fought off 2 Mexicans trying to test me. Never had an issue after that.

After prison worked in as a consultant for a few years in IT. Was in trading stocks after that. Currently, making a good living trading the Nasdaq gaps.


Well i guess thats all if you want any info about prison life or just want to say hi Pm me.

2 counts fraud. middleton,clements,formby,walker sale

10 charges... forgery x3, uttering x3, possession of larc tools, possession of stolen credit cards x3. I got 10 years total. 9 suspended after 1 in county lock up (salem Virginia), wasnt moved due to continuous court hearings for the divorce and child custody that came from all this. Two days before my release I was nailed with 2 more uttering and 2 more forgery charges (which brought the total to 10).

Hello.

Sentenced to 25 years with 15 years suspended and no parole on the remainng 10 for a sex offense. I did my time in Patuxent Institution in Maryland in a segregated psychiatric cellblock.

Released to halfway house August, 2004. Released from halfway house to the custody of my stepfather in January, 2005.

Laura

My name is Brian. I served 12 years in Virginia (non-violent property crimes). I have "free" now for 4 years. I have a great full-time job; go to GMU in Fairfax full-time (except in the summer), run a website for inmates trying to receive pen pals, and work on various prison projects. My main focus is on recidivism, and keeping men and women OUT of prison. Thanks for letting me introduce myself, and it is good to know that others have made it out here...freedom is worth it. Take care.

Brian

Hi, I'm Janardana Dasa, ex-offender (released from Federal custody in 1986). I did 3 years in Joliet, IL and 2 years in Texas (Beto II Unit) and two years in FCI El Reno and one year in FCI-Bastrop.

"See the USA the US Marshal Way..."

Back in the day, the feds had a way of dealing with non-violent nudniks, law suit mongerers, grievance writers.. the magical mystery tour, weeks upon weeks of traveling from joint to joint on busses, planes, vans, staying in jails, MCC's, FCI's, USP's... I saw at least a week in over a dozen BOP facilities... Texarkana, Memphis, Lewisburg, Atlanta, Butner, NC, Springfield, MO, MCC Chicago, Terre Haute... But hey, I liked cheese sandwiches, and it was better than sitting in a cell.

I was in El Reno for the longest stretch. I was a Hare Krishna and was involved with the group suing the BOP for religious rights, including vegetarian kitchen. (1985?)

So, hello. Haven't been in a lick of trouble since. Nice family guy, still a Hare Krishna (its what saved me from a llife inside).

:thumbsup:

Seven years in a florida prison, 2 years awaiting trial. Never again

Hi everyone. I'm from New Zealand and have done my time in the two Canterbury prisons. Sentenced to five and a half years and served just over two. Have spent the last couple of months on Home Detention but come off that on monday and start 2 years of Parole. I was convicted on fraud charges which I committed to fund a gambling addiction-bright eh? Never again!!!

"I was searching for info on a former and very helpful Parole Officer and came upon this site. Very nice...and interesting!

I am an X felon who toured the CA system from 1971-1988 with a 4 year break '72-75. Got off Parole in '91 and haven't looked back.

Although I've been a hard working and productive citizen and would like to share some success stories, I would also like a much needed tune up in the form of some more deep counseling. I am a very spiritually motivated individual and have been stagnant for too long. Seems incarceration is an excellent place for reading & studying if you're up for it."

I was released on July 20, 2006 after a 37-month "vacation" at FPC Bryan in Texas.

I got pinched for a white collar federal felony. Caught 4 years of probation and 6 months ankle time.

Hey I am new here .... But i joined so that mabye I can help some people out....I was a victim of the Commenwealth of pensylvaina DOC ..Because I sold 2 oz of pot in wayne county PA....Being from brooklyn ny they didnt take to kindly to me comming into there rural lil town and Destroying it with my "BIG CITY CRIME" (Thats what the judge said) I was sentenced to 18-60 months in a state correctional facility and thus began he tour of the PA DOC's. I was in Wayne County Prison (6 mo) S.C.I Camp-Hill (3mo) S.C.I Mercer (21 mo) S.C.I. Dallas (1mo) { IN The hole for a misconduct) S.C.I. forrest (2 mo) 1 halfway house in scranton pa ( Which was worse than the state Joints.. and finally thank god rercived my Interstate compact back and am now on paper in NY. I Swore while I suffered in there when I got out I would NEVER Forget the Abuse that the DOC dished out and the mind games they played (( All for 2 oz of pot ) street value of $300...I will be glad to answer any questions about my Experience inside and be Willing to help out in anyway I can .... Like I said "I am new here " hope I am doing this right
peace always

Clancy

From NC started at Morganton highrise in 86 and then made a long 14yr and 9 month journey through the NCDOC. I was labeled a management problem and high risk for assualtive behavior, along with being an escape risk, so for the first 9 years I was kept in close custody. Didn't have a lot of good sense back then and got quite a few tickets, and did plenty of hole time including a 3yr 9mnth stint at Caledonia for hitting a Sgt at Troy. Should have been 1 year, but family sprang for a lawyer, and a couple of stand up CO's actually told the truth in court and I beat the street charge, so good old DCC did a number on me. Got out in 2000, off paper in 2003, voted in 2004. Got wife and kid now, own my business and stay out of trouble. Been clean 19 years, 20 in November. Sponsor a couple of guys still in and still go to meetings myself. Spent time at approx 48 of of NC prisons and was refused at both the old Polk and Randolph when being transported. Quite funny to have a Capt tell the transporting CO that he didn't care what he did with me, but I wasn't coming onto his unit.
Last thing I did in was get the policy changed at Cherry Street for homepasses. They wouldn't let us have overnight passes unless we were married, and the policy, old 5 NCAC before the GA raped it, said we could have them. So I raised hell, wrote letters, filed paper, and generally acted like the management problem I was, and they changed that policy. First weekend I could have a overnighter, my sis was out of town so I didn't get one. And danged if they didn't parole me the next week before I ever got one. Parole came out of nowhere and shocked the crap out of me, but not so much that I refused it.

has anyone done time out on the smith unit in west tx and if so tell me whats up there please,thx.

SECC and FRDC in Missouri

Alot has changed from when i first paroled in june of 05 and joined this site. After doing over 7 years state time for a robbery, i was shocked at how easy it was to be "normal", going to school and work and loving life. Well 6 months later things started going downhill and i realized that i had become somewhat institutionalized:eek:!! Now I am trying to get back on track, but looking at where i was a year ago and where i am today, its depressing!

Hi,
My name is Mark from Salt Lake, Midwest, and I just did a stint of 8 years in Draper Utah and got out just some days ago.

Welcome all new Utah members. I'm glad to know that Utah's little corner isn't dieing out yet...Today is our anniversary of the day he turned himself in. I really can't wait till he's out for good.

I served five years in Beto-1, Been out for 5 years as of Oct 2nd
all in all I served 7 years in TDC. I now have a wife and kids that keep my idle hands busy. I am NOT planning on going back anytime soon. Advice to others, settle down, figure out what your goal in life will be, and don't make the same mistakes twice.
I am a statisic....I felt like going back about a year after I was out, I am glad I didn't make another mistake or I wouldn't be here to enjoy my boys..

I did 10 months in one Michigan jail for 2nd degree home Invasion, whiile serving this time I was also convicted of B and E with intent in another county I recived an additional 10 months ran consecutive plus I know have life time intense probation and also recieved a supplemant on the second felony.

I did 21 months....Atwater and Dublin and Taft

i am juan from the ny area born in nearby jersey was on my own much in nyc as i call it my true home. :) as i was here before i got locked up livin wit bro jorge for years before he and i got our sentence.he is still in.

i got out finally and i am so new to these laptops pc's cell phones im's lol
emails everyhing has changed alot but i am just glad to no longer be
a state of nys # ya heard???

i am DONE and smiling & look forward to meeting the right woman soon i hope and living a good life normail clean life good job and raise a son i have age 10.

he my life too and i missed him so much for 7 yrs. but at least i am getting time with him now. thank god.

peace out
1
god bless.

I did 3 months in Cook County Jail in Chicago. 2 Months in Stateville and 4 months at Boot Camp in Dixon Springs IIP. Hoorah!

I'm BACK....I was at Pekin FPC for 2 1/2 years and I'm back at you..Thanks to all my friends that kept in touch while I was there...if i have any info you might be interested in, please feel free to contactme.

I want to Welcome all the new folks to PTO and to the Straight Talk Forum.

Too those that are have come back to us and to your PTO Family: Welcome HOME!

Good to see you all!

Patti

I served 12 years for burglaries and safecracking in Virginia...have been out now going on 5 years and love life now...

Brian

Brian,

I know you have been with the PTO Family for some time, however, I want to welcome you to the Straight Talk Forum. Glad to have you with us.

Patti

I second what Patti said - WELCOME

Spent 3 years in Wyoming for armed robbery from 1979 to 1982. Have been sober/drug free for 22 years. Got my BA, Paralegal Certificate, two MA's. Adopted my daughter from Morocco, despite the very thorough background check and detailed investigation that the INS does when you want to adopt a foreign child. I made it through that, which is THE toughest investigation one can have. It took them a year and a half. Then they tried to give me trouble for the felony record...but I went to Senator Kennedy's office next door, and they helped. Got 8 letters of recommendation...and I was approved! My daughter is 16 now, I have not been in trouble with the law again. thank God!

I was incarcerated at the Southern Nevada Womans Correctional Center on Smiley Rd. in North Las Vegas for 2 years. I was paroled in Aug of 2005 to Reno, was honorably discharged and am now back in Vegas. I LOVE this town.

Did time as both a juvinile and as an adult.Did 16months with half at Vspw and also at a CCF in Live Oak.

I was incarcerated for conspriracy to import and distribute marijuana and hashish oil in the federal system. My sentence was 61 months and most of it was served out in FCI Elkton in Ohio. I have been out sice October of 2003. After getting out I still maintain contact with several of those left behind and help them out from time to time or when permissible. If anyone is heading down that road or has been I'd be glad to help. I began my journey in Vero Beach, FL to Palm Beach County to FDC Miami to Atlanta, GA to Oklahoma to Elkton and to a CCC (halfway house in West Michigan. I assisted many spanish speaking inmates who could not read or write english in writing letters to various agencies both inside and outside the fence. I am also very familiar with the Canadian consulate and the transfer to Canada process as I am with the Consulado de Mexico y translados a Mexico. Feel free to ask me any questions you have from indictment to supervised release.

did 8 years in wv doc shout out to my faimly uncle 20 between moundville and mountolive brother did two 5 year bits in wv doc and my cousins in huttonsville and mountolive wont forget ride hard and sleep with your boots on love o

Dave-On., Canada
2 federal sentences, just got off paper in july 06

What was it like at Sheridan FCI?

SPENT 4 months in PHOENIX WEST prison for 2 Felony DUI's.

Spent 48 months FPC Terre Haute

I survived on the outs and did 7.5 years in Iowa womens prison

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

hello everyone, my names Heather..I served 7.5 yrs. in Mitchellville..the only Iowa womens state prison from 95-2002. I have been out since Feb. 18, 2002 and have not been in any trouble since.

I also gave birth to my only son in Mar. 5, 1996-while in prison. I have literally been thru hell itself. But I am here today making it as best I can.

I has (2) 25 yr. sentence for armed robberies..they were concurrent..so ran together w/(1) 25 yr. term. I had been on probation (paper) for years prior. I was on Intense probation while committing that crime that landed me in prison.

I planned 2 armed robberies and my sons father helped w/both. He actually did them but I planned them detail to detail. I pretended to be a victim. He couldn't wait for me while I was in..so there went our engagement. I still wasn't able to reconcile w/him when I got out as he was in a relationship w/someone else.

I have since worked at 1 place since getting out. I started out loading and unloading semis for 4 years. I also went to college..but I didn't finish cause all the job fairs wouldn't look twice at me w/the prison time I did.

I have since been promoted now..I have my own office, and love it. I cannot disclose where I work since I find prejudice everywhere I go if I mention it. Human resources knew when they hired me, but I don't need everyone else in my business. I want my work ethic to speak for itself.

I regained my citizenship from the governor in the fall of 2004. Unfortunately just missing the presidential election..so I couldn't vote! And in 2014 I will apply for my firearm rights. (with a letter of recommendation from Gov. Villsack).

I don't know much else to say...I love I can make my own decisions out here. I can't say I love the world so much out here...alot of heartache, and pain out here don't get me wrong..I just pretty much love the fact I can make decisions for myself now. I can eat when I want, use the bathroom..BY myself, I have doors for privacy, I can drive, I can yell if I want..its great!

I am 31 now..I got out at 26. I haven't been lucky enough to have another child yet. I been married since 2003, own our own house, I have a step son, and 2 dogs!

Any questions let me know!
__________________
LadySoldier--'Ryde or Die"

Congrats and welcome back to the forum!

At 16, went to Juvie in Pennsylvania.... at 18 went to County in Philadelphia... at 20 went to county in Virginia... at 25 went to county in Orlando... at 27 went to Florida Dept of Corrections... and again in Florida in 2004, just got released in March of 06'. I am a GAY male that AT ONE TIME was on hormones and had breasts and it was no picnic believe me!! Now working and living in New Jersey and keeping it ALL together... hard as it may be!!

Pled out to fourth-degree arson in 1997 but never saw any time over it (thank God). Five years' probation and out $7500 in restitution.

If you have been incarcerated any time in the past, please sign in here. If you would like, please also tell us when and where and anything else you feel is relevant.

Please ONLY use this thread to "sign in" and not for general conversation. My goal for this thread is to let PTO members know who we are in the event they have questions for us, and for future ex-cons/offenders/prisoners to see there are others of us here.

Thanks,
David (Fed-X)

[You are welcome to be as detailed as you want.. Just your name & where you did time, or as long winded as you like]

I am an ex-con who served time at the USDB at Ft Leavenworth, KS

Hi im Greg i did 15 months in florida for first degree organized fraud.It was my only time in Prison or jail and in many ways a much better person for it . Thank you for your own personal stories and insights it helps me as i continue on my journey

well, my name sean and i am an x con. i guess that's a pretty crappy thing to be typing as a 36 year old well to-do, educated, suburbanite from the west coast...but it's true. i'm a 4 time loser. i have been in prison in three states...oregon, nevada and colorado (twice). all of my sentences have been "short time" two-three year stretches. i have an I DON'T CARE ATTITUDE that goes back to my childhood...except for now it lands me in the pokie for "time out's" of the most bizarre time. most STORIES about prison are just that...stories. i've found that if i want to be a jerk, then people (staff and cons) will treat me as such. i tend to be real with everyone and am left to do my time as a CONVICT and not an INMATE. when i started consuming time in D.O.C. back in 1992 i was given the convict code of conduct by a few "old timers"...thank God for that! today's "fish" don't seem to have that and this seems to result in the chaos that runs rampant in the systems today. i can't recall being locked-down as they are doing it today...it is different. i'm a hard worker whom finds it easy to find a good job while inside on my own. most people find it easier to do it through a fellow con...that also works against the new numbers that walk through the door and are told to find a job (or else). so, i got by.
gotta sleep...lol...just got out yesterday and i'm beat! i'll post again tomorrow...this is just a hello. thanks and G'nite :sleepy:

36 month stint in Annandale. 14 months in halfway house in Trenton NJ

My warrants were issued in 1992, I was arrested in Rancho Palos Verdes, California in November 94, on outstanding charges from California and Canada. Sentenced to 7 years 8 months, served 4 years 3 months in Delano State Prison, Centinela State Prison, passing thru Chino 3 times.

Centinela "A" yard for a little over 3 years.

Then off to US Immigration in El Centro for 5 weeks, flown to LAX via commuter flight, then flown to Vancouver via Alaska Airlines, released on bail. Bail revoked in Toronto, 5 months dead time, sentenced to 4 years on 1992 charges, flown back to BC via Air Canada, then flown back to Ontario via Air Canada.

Sent to Milhaven Reception in Kingston, Ontario, short stay at Joyceville Institution and transferred to Fenbrook Institution in the Muskoka's. Released on statutory release on February 14/06 and currently have 105 days until the expiry of my sentence.

Can anyone who has been in prison or knows the real meaning behind how much time someone get explain to me what really does 33 to life means and if this was given in 1991. under the 65% law

Well, 33 to life, generally means you must serve 33 years before you can apply for parole. I'll assume if sentenced under a 65% law, it would mean you must serve 21 1/2 years before you could apply for parole.

However, being California, it was Gov. Pete Wilson that took all the release dates away from lifers back in 1995 regardless of what laws you were sentenced under. He also made it almost impossible for lifers to obtain parole, and changed the law from 2 years to 5 years, the amount of time the parole board can put your parole hearings off for.

Travis 5years state and federal

Nebraska State Penn
FCI Oxford WI

hey u - u sound really cool - what you up to now?

Leslie 2 1/2 years IDOC Lincoln Correctional Center, for conspiracy. 3 years parole, only have 1 year left! :)

i was in my tenth year when i was released from the women's prison in new mexico. i've been out for three months and find it difficult at times. i actually miss prison sometimes and the ladies i left behind there. is that wrong? i'm doing what i have to do to stay out. i refuse to let the bastards win.

i was in my tenth year when i was released from the women's prison in new mexico. i've been out for three months and find it difficult at times. i actually miss prison sometimes and the ladies i left behind there. is that wrong? i'm doing what i have to do to stay out. i refuse to let the bastards win.

No your not going to let the bastards win!

At times I miss prison too, and as you said the ladies I left behind!

When I get stressed financially or otherwise I actually find myself wanting to go back, then I slap myself with the fact that since my release in 2003 life has become great, and that in truth I don't want to go back!

Hang in there and know that we are here for you! Someone has sat with me on the phone at times and listened and helped me realize life on the outside is good no matter how hard!

If you ever need and ear, pm me.

Patti

I totally second what Patti says. I have was locked up for 4 years and have now been out as long as I was in. When things have gotten tough, I often wished I was back and I also suffered feelings of guilt because I had to leave a lot of really great people behind.

Take it one day at a time - one minute at a time - and it does get better. I promise. There is nothing like freedom, even if we have to pay a price for it at times.

Good luck!

Hi, y'all! I was in FPC Bryan for 30 months for bank fraud! I got out 7/20/06. Life is so much better now...

3 months waiting trials twice
1st,when I was a juvey
2nd at granville county jail,looking at 20 years. (I walked) :)

Hi - I was just sentenced to 12 months, likely at FPC Terre Haute. Would welcome any insights at all about that particular facility. What are the good jobs? any computer access? what's the day-to-day life like? Thanks so much!

Patrick - I would suggest checking out our Federal Prison Forum

I served 8 years in different Texas prisons. I have been out since July of 2006. Would love to answer any questions anyone might have about Texas prisons. I know how the system keeps families in the dark and can be very un cooperative.

I just paroled after spending five years at the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Brig, the United States Disciplinary Barracks at Leavenworth, KS and FCI-Beaumont. Happy to answer any questions ... glad to be here.

I was a guest of TDCJ for 18 months. I WAS guilty of my crime; however, the TDCJ system is broken. The only difference between me and "them" was that I was on the other side of the bars. I was at the Bradshaw State Jail in Henderson,TX..............andrew:angry:

I Was Sent. To Two Years And Did 6 Months I've Been Out Of The System For Over Four Years.

Hey Yall,
My name is Max. Made parole on life sentence 11 months ago. Served a total of 26 years in multiple prisons around the State. Escaped from a CCA prison in 96 ,stayed out a year doing the same dumb crap then the girl I was hanging with and I both OD'ed on some pure heroin/coke shots. She died, I lived and got sent back to do my time. Decided the party was over and have been clean since. Since I don't party anymore, I've found it hard to find people that are non-judgemental. Bars are full of accepting folks. Came on PTO to share and hopefully help some folks that could use a little inside view of things. Peace

I was convicted in November 2006 (actually I plead out) for trafficing of a controlled substance (meth) in Carrollton Kentucky. I was arrested in July 2006, and got time served credit. I served 180 days (6months) in Carroll County Detention Center (The Humphrey Hilton) Dn't get jeloaus Paris, the room service sucked!!LOL. N_E_way this was my first arrest, first conviction (hopefully my last) and now I am convicted Felon (yipe thanks your honor) Seems being a good girl all my life (save for the meth addiction) only paid off in that I didn't get a real harsh sentence in zero-toleranceville. Unfortunately my DH wasn't so lucky and they trew a hardback book at him!

hey my name is Krystina, I was just released on the 7th of may from the wonderful denver womans correctional facility in beautiful downtown denver. I only did a little less then three years.But I am having the hardiest time. It's sensory overload for sure. I almost want to run back to were i came from. Crazy shit. I interstated to Arizona were I dont have a single soul to keep me thinking straight. It's kind of stupid but I miss my friends so damn bad. I think I just might lose my mind or my freedom again. Lame, I know but I just cant seem to get my mind right.

krystee,

Give it time, yeah it is hard. I have been out for four years and still have my days.

All I want to do is go home to San Francisco, yet, the God's seem to conspire against that. So I know how you are feeling.

In some ways, it gets better as time passes, in others I don't know.

Just give yourself the time to heal and hang on to us at PTO. We may not be your friends and family back home, but we are here for you when you need us.

Patti

Hi:wave: ,
Just putting in my info here...I did time twice at WCCW. The first time I did 22 months- from November,1992 until September,1994 and then I went back in July, 1996 and did 67 months of a 100 month sentence, releasing in March, 2002. Both incarcerations were for "VUCSA" (Violation of the Uniform Controlled Substance Act) cases, or drug deliveries.

I spent the main part of my sentence in Washington Correction Center for Women, as it is the ONLY prison for females in WA state. I went to pre-release at Tacoma Pre-release at Western State Hospital and then transferred to Lincoln Park Work Release in Tacoma, WA for the last 6 months of both of my sentences.

I am, or was at the time of my release, fairly well versed in the WA state DOC policies and how the system worked from an inmates perspective. I would be happy to answer any questions in regard to policies and the way things worked while I was inside, though it HAS been 5 years since I was released and things change daily in the prison system.:o

[quote=krystee]hey max, my name is Krystina. I was just released one mounth ago yesterday. And to be real honest i'm in some sort of daze. I was only down less then three years but it became my entire life. I inter-stated to arizona from colorado and dont know a soul out here. It's crazy how a huge part of me just wants to go back to where I came from. God, I miss my friends, they became my faimly. Now I have no one who seems to understand what i say, do or even think, so I just end up not saying or doing anything. Idont know how to keep my mind straight. What I do know is people like you make a differance just being there even if I dont ever talk to you thanks for
the inspirtation

Hello Krystina,
You are so right! When I was inside, all I ever thought of was getting out. But you know what people say,"Be careful what you wish for." I was no sooner out when I realised I didn`t fit in anymore. I cannot say I am institutionalised but, like you, I do miss my friends. There is comfort to be gleaned from familiar surroundings.

My boyfriend is at MCTC hagerstown, Maryland and he sent me a letter the other day saying that his "mandatory parole hearing" is set for 7/25 and that as of right now that is the date that he is being released. But, I was asking around and everyone said that the date of parole isn't the date that they are going to be released. I wasn't sure if there was a difference between mandatory parole and just regular parole either. I would really appreciate it if someone could give me some information about this.
Thank you!

missingmypurg, no, the parole date (at least here in sc) is not the date of release. IF they make parole, it can be up to a month before they are finally released. They will tell them when. I've never heard of mandatory parole (at least not here in sc)

Ok for my intro in this portion of pto. My name is Danielle. I was arrested a while back for some stupid crap. I got locked up for (as they said) attempting to furnish an inmate w/contraband. Which was all bogus. They *NEVER* found any dope on me, around me, in me or anything. I ended up pleading no contera, because traveling 6 hours to go to roll call every month was getting harder and harder on me, our kids, and our car. My lawyer was pushing it too, cause she was a pd, and ready to get it over with. I even passed a lie detector test. I am planning on getting my record expunged, as soon as im done with my probation. My hubbys still in, and will be for another 2 years or so.

Listen girl , Things are different in every state. so it is hard to say for sure. But if he is seeing the board then he will not get out that day. Believe it or not I made parole sept 11 th and left may 7th of the next year. I had some bad circumstances but you get my point. Usually it takes 4-6 weeks for a parole plan to get approved. If it is his mandatory RELEASE date which is different then parole then yes he will get out that day. Mandatory parole iz something they do in vary few states. I have a five year mandatory parole from the great state of Colorado but most states don't pull that double jeopardy shit. I know things seem confusing but keep your head up and know that all this will be over soon if you have any other questions feel free to ask

I was never locked up. They put me on probation for 20 years. Which kinda screwed me 'cause it appears that only people who were locked up or had drug offenses get any help in Virginia. I have served 2 years of probation so far and don't plan on getting into trouble. It just bugs me having to live in shelters or with family because I can't find a way to make an income. I have done volunteer work, but their budgets can't afford me. Everyone likes me, or so they say, just can't hire me. I can't even get in the National Guard because I have 4 felonies and they can only waiver 1. I'm frustrated and it seems like I just begun because most folks that DO hire felons require 7 years of no trouble. 7 years is a long time to try to raise 4 kids with no money. State aid doesn't last that long thanks to welfare reform. I've always hated Virginia, but now I REALLY hate it!

Hi everyone! Welcome to the straight talk forum!

LadySoulDja, I can understand you hating Virginia so do I! I will be on probation till 2010 then it is the heck out of the horrible state and back to San Francisco!

Patti

Hello all:
I spent 12 mos. in the AL-DOC (ADOC) system. It was, to say the least, a humbling experience. I got out in May of this year (2007) and have yet to go back to work. Unfortunately, my previous life (work) does not employ felons. Now, it is my job to make a difference to those that are in and write letter after letter to various organizations and groups to get inmates the treatment they deserve as human beings.
And, to a lessor extent, help those in the free world understand the reasons those who have lengthy sentences may have trouble re-adjusting at first. Also, here I can help the outside family members better understand what is happening to those inside the walls.

You and I are alike in that aspect. I have spent the last year helping homeless families and families about to be homeless. What goes around, comes around. That's what they say. I say, we'll see.

I spent my time at FPC Bryan. I will answer any questions if anyone needs help.:)

Welcome to all of our new Straight Talk Members!!!

Can anyone share their advice for someone who went down barely 18yrs old on a 20yr sentence and has done 13flat so far? He has spent all of his 20's and now he's 31 and still stuck inside TX prison walls awaiting the 3rd parole review in 08.

For life



I've done two stints so I'm a two rodeo veteran and have permanently retired from the gulag system. Smile. First time down covered the early 90s and I was on Beto-1 and Brisco Unit in Texas. Second go round I did 8 flat and was recently released and did time on the Smith unit, Brisco again (!), and the Darrington Unit where I spent 6 of the 8 flat time down on the 12 for reataliation in ad. seg. confirmed a leader in the Aryan Brotherhood. I quit that ride some years back in case you don't already know or try to give me a hard time about it. Smile. All in all I have over 11 years done day for day in Texas Department of Criminal Justice. My advice to any of you is that if you don't reside in Texas stay away!!! This state is lock em' up happy. Keep the Faith!

My Name is Trish Hart, I spent 25 years addicted to speed and 43 months in Dublin Ca. I've been out for 2 1/2 years. While I was in Dublin, I had the awesome privlige of meeting Jesus Christ and He has truly changed my life! I wrote a book about my prison experience and my new life in Christ called You Are Never Alone. It is my hope that my story will give hope to those who have none. Please visit my website yourneveralone.com

Blessings!!!:thumbsup:

I am a 3 time drug offender in Oklahoma and have served time in alot of Oklahoma's prisons. This last time serving 7 years of a 35 year sentence that I made parole on. I have been out 2 and a half years and was just released from supervised parole. I have been through it all in Oklahoma and can answer any question about this state.

:wave: Hi Everyone.:wave: I spent 15 years as an honored guest of the Ohio Reformatory for Women. I have been home since April 9, 2007.

I am here for two reasons. I have loved ones still inside:broken: , and I need a little guidance on dealing with things from the outside, as I have only an insiders perspective to go on.

The other reason I am here is that I work for a non-profit organization that's sole purpose is to assist offenders in reentering society by providing resources, referrals, and support, as well as affordable temporary housing. We are located in Columbus, Ohio, and if you are someone, or you know someone who could benefit from some reentry assistance, even if it's just someone to talk to that understands where you are and where you've been, please feel free to contact me. I find that no matter how much our families love us, and how supportive they have been, they just don't understand how overwhelming it can be to be released, when you've been away for a long time. And who best to assist someone in the reentry process than someone who has succesfully made the transition. :grouphug:

-Lise

Please let me know if you like this first chapter.I should tell you, I wrote this years ago in prison, I now have 4 years clean sober and arrest free. Let me start out by saying the following story is 100% matter of fact. Ive been to prison in all 4 corners of the USA,and I'm not ashamed of it,and if you read this, youll see why. I'm going to give you a real convicts veiw from the inside out. On top of that, I've seen and done some hair raising shit. A multi millionare once contracted me to kill his wife, but I'm more of a hustler than anything else, so I worked him for about $8,000 and warned the wife to watch her back at the same time . I probably saved her life.And I have the newspaper clippings to prove it. I was once extradited from New Jersey to California for shoplifting, and when I got out 90 days later I won $25,000 on the price is right, and I have the dated extradition papers and the Price is Right tape to prove it. This is the story about a decision I made over 20 years ago and how that decision has affected every aspect of my life to this day.The choice I made is a choice people have been making since the beggining of time, the choice between right & wrong.At the time I made this choice I had no idea it would cost me over 15 years of my life.As I sit here in my 6ft.by 8ft cell with nothing but time & memories.
I've decided to put pen to paper and share with the world what I've learned.Sometimes my memory escapes me, so forgive me if I bounce around.Right now I'm in Monmouth County Correctional facility waiting to be extradited to California for commercial burglary, its a fancy word for shoplifting.Years ago I got caught coming out of a retail store with a t.v.I've done it thounsands of times, thats right, thousands of times.I walk in and take whatever I want, put it in a cart, and walk smooth out.I didnt stick shit down my pants, I didnt look all around like a junkie looking for a fix,I took whayever I wanted, whenever I wanted.This applied to alot more than just merchandise,beer, and food, this included cars jewlery, and teeth. Thats right teeth, many men are walking this earth with less teeth then when we met.My lifestyle has made it possible for me to see all four corners of this great country.This is going to sound fucked up, but I might as well say it now, I,ve been to prison in all four corners as well. Just so you know I was trying to attend an N.A.meeting on a Naval base in N.J. when the gatewatchman ran my drivers liscence because of 9/11 they now check all civilians entering the base,make a long story short, I got busted because of Osama Bin Fucking Laden.I would also like you to know Ive never done time for a "bullshit"crime.I once did a bid for a crime I did not commit, me and some freinds of mine were on our way home from a softball game drunk and high when some assholes from another town started talking shit to the smallest guy in our crew, it was getting dark and they didnt see the bat.And unfortunetly for me I did'nt see my exgirlfreind who was with those assholes who started the whole thing by talking shit and not being able to back it up.That ex of mine dropped my name and I caught a 10 year bid for agg.assault with a deadly weapon and I did not hit anybody with a weapon I dont mean to brag but I've never needed a weapon, dont get me wrong I've lost quite a few fights, anyone who tells you that theyve never lost is probably a coward, it means he has not had that many fights, and lets just say I've won alot more than Ive lost.Maybe your wondering why I went to prison for a crime I did'nt commit? Because I was already living by the #1 rule of all outlaws, never snitch.I've also done a strech for cat burglaries, somthing me and my old crew used to pull off like walking in the park, and no one ever got hurt.We started out breaking into cars and tool sheds and eventualy working our way into peoples windows.
I was once inside a house unhooking a vcr when I heard the stairs creek I looked up and saw a 400 lb. woman looking at me,she said who the fuck are you ? I looked her dead in the eye and said I'm with your son, he's in the bathroom. She said tell him I said to hold the fucking noise down.Luckily my road dog had been in the bathroom with light on looking for scrips.We were very reckless back then, but it didnt take us long to find out you didnt have to break into someones house to get some used shit, when we could walk into a store and get some new shit, and when we got busted it was only a shoplifting charge most of the time. Thats right, not if we got busted but when,for if you play the "game" you will get busted.No matter if your game is boosting, pimping, drugs or even white collar crimes you will eventualy get popped.If you added all my bids together including all the little bullshit county streches I've done for fighting in public and shit like that in over 11 states scattered all over the U.S., its over 13 years. You might be thinking I'm not a very good criminal, well its quite the opposit I got busted for maybe 1 in a 1'000 crimes.Incase your wondering I have long since retired from my life of crime and have had a real job for over 8 years.I should also tell you that if I had'nt used drugs and put all my ill gotten spoils into cash and saved the money, I would be close to a millionare, and I shit you not.I'm not saying I would'nt change anything in my past, but I dont regret the lifestyle I've lived. I've had some life experiences that I wouldnt trade for anything.When I was a youngster I knew a girl who babysat for a big time pot dealer and we used to pinch a little everyday, well me and the babysitter had a fight, so I figure on robbing the pot dealer, but when me and my boys get there her stash isnt in the same spot, so I tell the fellas to search the pad, and my buddy Mike yells to me from the kitchen and when I look in there every single kitchen cabnit is packed full of weed. We ended up with over 17 pounds. I think I spent maybe one night at home that whole summer,we were the richest kids in town, we would take cabs to Manhatten, and Six flags. We did more acid that summer than most people at Woodstock. But this is not a "drugalog" it is not all fun and games. Out of the 5 guys who I used to run with back then I am the only one living a semi-normal life, 1 is dead,2 are in prison, and 1 is homeless and he can barely hold a conversation,his brain is toast.And when that pot ran out I tryed to go back home to mommy & daddy, but my parents had had enough of my bullshit, and I spent most of that fridged winter sleeping in the hallway of an apartment building, and the back seat of an abandonded car.But I am a big beleiver in a qoate by Gangus Kahn in 1218, "that wich does not kill me only makes me stronger". I beleive with all my heart that every past minute of my life can be used to better every second of my world.Like the time I gave a bum 2 bucks on my way out of a dope hole in East L.A. and the next day he got me out of a sure bust when L.A.P.D. seen me walking to my car put me up against the wall the bum came running up and said why yall hastling my boss? He remembered I had a Red Lobster shirt on the day before and told the cops he was a dishwasher their and I had just droped him off.Luckily the shirt was still in my car and the cops let me bounce with 2 ounces of blow down my pants.
Or when I had the love of a good woman,a beutiful, wonderful person.Dont get me wrong, I've had plenty of women, but none like this one, she was the one and only, the whole package. The one who could have changed me if only I would have let her,but at the time, the outlaw in me was to strong. And thats why ladies love outlaws,they want to tame us. If I am nothing else, I am an outlaw.But this woman was special, she is the one I think about when I'm in a cold and lonly cell, she is the one I think about when I'm in a $400 dollar a night suite with 3 high priced call girls and she's the one I wish I could make it all up to.But like I said that wich does not kill me... Like the time I was coming down the stairs of a crackhouse with a young kid who was maybe 17 and what I thought was homeless guy on the bottom stair turned out to be a stick up boy looking for a victim he was on the bottom step, and when he stood up, he said give me the shit, me being the kind of guy I was at the time, I said I dont know what the fuck your talking about.He said give me the shit and the youngster who was with me said Irish just give him the coke.At that point I relised to late that the stick up boy was really really dope sick, he was shaking like a leaf and he said oh you wanna lie cracker and he put one in my kneecap I screamed like a bitch and threw the dope at him. My connection hears the shot, comes out, and carries me to the bus stop, dials 911, and bounces. By the way, youngster was half way to Jersey, he ran like the wind, and now that I look back I dont blame him.I'll tell you about a time I was a scared youngster, I was sitting in this very same county jail I'm in right now about 20 yrs.ago, and I had just been scentenced to 10 yrs. and even though I had been to juvi, I was still scared of the Big House.My cellie was an old con who was doing his 4th, and last, prison term.(life)So I asked him, Pops, whats the worst thing about prison? I was expecting him to say your gonna get fucked or robbed for your shit, and beat down, but he looked me dead in the eye and said youngster, the worst thing about prison is that you get used to it.Truer words were never spoken.I used to wake up in the middle of the night after 2years down, and be like where the fuck am I? Now I can have 1 night in the drunk tank and not only do I know where I am, but I know what to expect and the whole rutine.
I started out this story with a purpose in mind,to tell you how to keep out of a jam if you ever happen to end up behind the wall. And I will, but first let me tell you a little bit about myself, and why I'm qualified to preach this paticular sermon. When I had about 3 yrs in I could sit on my rack and tell you who was on duty just listening to the gaurd walk.Prisons are there own little universes, you dont think so? Let me explain, they have there own galaxy. Imagine if every time you were lucky enough to be outside, you looked up and saw the exact same patch of sky.More than just sights, prison also has its own sounds smells and tastes,I'll give you an example of each.The sound of a cell door sliding shut is like no other sound in the world, for the first 2 years I would rather have heard nails on a chalkboard, but like the old man said, I got used to it.As for sights, if youre lucky, your cell has a 4 inch window were you can look out and see what seems to be miles of barbed &,razorwire, with a gaurdtower at every corner, with a man and a high power rifle hoping he gets to do what he has trained for his whole career, shot a convict.As for smells, that one beleive it or not is the worst, the others, you can escape, just close your eyes and eat somthing good while listening to your headset, but the smell, of fear, and sweat, and cheap cleanser, is like nothing else in the world. I imagine that this smell is centuries old, I once took a girlfriend to an abortion clinic, and that same over powering stench hit me like a left hook.I had to go wait in the car.I will say this much, thanks to some good cons, I've had some of the best meals in my life behind the wall, bullshit you think? Well imagine a half ass chef,with half ass ingrediants, but now remember he has years and years and years to conncoct his brew.Its true,practice makes perfect.But I have also eatensome of the worst shit you can imagine, in L.A.county jail,if you go to the hole, they give you what they call jupeball,it consists of what ever there having thrown in a blender and then baked into a sponge like patty, maybe you didnt hear me I said what ever your having, as in bologne, bread, fruit, and rice or potato, blended together, baked and served 2 or 3 hours later cold, and you will eat it, eventually, because like everything else, you get used to it.L.A. county jail is THE WORST PLACE IN THE U.S.A. to do time.
I've researched this subject, trust me. It holds more people than any other jail in the country, on some of the floors its like a huge gymnaisium filled with bunkbeds so close to eachother that its like one giant bed with 300 dope sick junkies, and winos, and you.And that is one rough camp, you will get beat down by the gaurds quicker than shit, don't even think of saying boo.They will kill you.Allthough, one time about 25 or 30 years ago, a small Asian kid, who spoke no english, kicked the living shit out of a few deputies,( by the way, dont ever call a deputy: guard, or c.o.) anyway this youngster got hold of one of the deps nightsticks and rumor has it they had to get his old man to come in and calm him down,they would have just killed him, but it got out to local media to fast that there was a ninja beating down deputies.Let me tell you right now that your chances of getting fucked are almost nill, if you have even an ounce of fight, they will move on , besides there are alot of gay people who want it to happen.I know that was a very nasty thing to say, but its a fact.Depending on what part of the country your in has alot to do with how you should do your time, but if you follow the one golden rule you should be alright.I'm going to tell you some of the basic rules that apply to all prisons and jails naitionwide.Like I said, mind your own business.But in the joint,you have to take that to a whole new level,heres some examples of some shit I've seen over the years, I once saw a man get knocked out for saying godbless you to a black guy who sneezed, he was a member of the 5% gang and they beleive that they are true creators and to say god bless you is a major no no.I was once sitting in a chow hall when somone said pass the salt, some newboot reached clear across the table and got knocked the fuck out, you see, he reached over another mans food to get to the salt.So when I say mind your own buisness I MEAN MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS, act as if you are deaf and blind but not dumb.Once a fish said to an old con, hey my man, are you sitting here? The con says I'm not your man, and spit a rasor out of his mouth and sliced open this kids face.I will say this, the fish new enough not to snitch,they grilled him for days, and threw him in "protective costody" witch is the same as the hole, and he never told who scared him, so that when he did finaly get out on the yard he got respect.About a year later he stuck a peice of metal in that guys chest.So dont think you'll always be on the bottom of the food chain.But the fish wouldnt have got sliced in the first place if he hadnt called somone out of their name,if you dont know somones name be careful how you approach them,if a guy tells you his name is Divine Master and you want to tell him somthing, either call him Divine Master, or be ready to fight.I was once witness to a sword fight, but instead of swords, they had mop ringers.A shotcaller is a convict with time in and skills, somone the other cons look to as a leader.
At the time I was in Chino state prison playing cards and a shotcaller was watching T.V. and he got up to piss, after he was gone about 10 minutes a fish changed the channel, the shotcaller comes back and changes it back this idiot of a fish reaches out and changes the channel again.After he get up from getting knocked on his ass by a right cross, he walks to the slop closet and grabs a mop wringer and heads toward the S.C. when one of the S.C. soldiers grabs a mop wringer and gives it to his leader, they went blow for blow, for about 6 minutes wich is a long time for a fight inside. But this guy didnt get "voted in" as shotcaller, hes the toughest son of a bitch on the yard, and he hit that fish so hard upside the head his eyes spun like a slot machine.Heres an old prison trick that happens every time some new boots hit the yard, theres always some weak fish that stands out, theyll find a candybar on their bunks that night and sometimes theyll be smart and hold it and then ask whos is this? But most times, hunger will kick in,and they will eat it at night very quietly like a mouse nibbling on a peice of cheese, while trying not to set off the trap.And sure enough the gates bust for chow in the morning and this is how it went down when I saw it happen, some preditor walked in to the fishtank right up to the weak fish and he says yo wheres that candybar I left on that bunk?I guess you must of got hungry and ate it huh? Well when you get your money just give me 2 back ok? Right there hes trying you.No fucking way does a real con pay 2 for 1, unless its of his own accord. So weakfish says no problem, my people got loot, I'll be going to the store every time its open I got mad paper.(money) He might as well have taken out an ad in the Folsom Times that said PLEASE USE ME.Now that the fish took the bait the preditor says:You no good motherfuking punk ass bitch, my daughter saved her alowence all month, and spent it all on family visit day, and I promised her I'd have it when I get out in 2 weeks, how the fuck are you gonna make it right? Needless to say, that fish had a new Daddy, and the preditor never made parole.You always have to keep your guard up wether youve been there 2 weeks or 40 years.However keeping your gaurd up for years on end,will have its after affects,to this day if I'm at a bar I will usallly have my back to the wall,and I can smell a fight before it happens on the otherside of the bar, while I'm egaged in deep conversation with a young hottie, time and focus, heightens your scences.I can finish a meal in about 15 seconds,if need be.I'm not instationalised, but, I am conditioned to prison life.There are also certain words wich are out of bounds on the inside,Ive seen alot of people get knocked out for telling someone to shut up, now I'm not telling you that you cant tell someone to shut up, I'm telling you be ready to fight if you do.Now I'll tell you some good things about being on the inside of a prison, thats right good things.You are mistaken if you think there arent any.First and far most are some of the freindships I made.How many of youre freinds would walk into a knife fight with you? Or stand in the way of a bullet?Let me tell you a little story, my freind Ballistic sold football tickets, and if you won he paid you, and the Crips had a pool where if you won somtimes they paid you, so they told Ballistic to shut down shop, but he didnt get that name because of his calm demener, and he was my freind so he never stands alone. There where about 13 of us and 29 of them and Ballistc said to there top Dog, wanna shoot the one? Meaning do you want a one on one fight?
So there guy says Im gonna beat you down Kracka, and about 30 seconds into the fight the tower shots of a warning and the sirons go off, now, if you know whats good for you, when those sirens go off you had best be suction cupped to the ground and spread eagle.But he is my freind, and he will not stand alone.Make a long story short he got knocked the fuck out, but it was fair and square.By the way 1 of the crips was shot in the leg, and we all spent 2 months in the hole for insiting a riot.You may ask, how is that a good thing, but how many of your freinds would have entered that situation?Another one of the benifits is time, time to read a novel, or write one.Time to work out,speaking of working out, heres a story about the biggest humanbeing I have ever seen barnone.His name was Hawk,he was a black guy who stood about 6ft5 and he was humoungus,he had mustles that were so big I think a fucking bullet would have bounced off.He had been down for 20 years when I met him, so you know it wasnt juice, he started out with a 9 year bid and cought a life scentence when he killed a c.o. this fucked up guard used to hit on Hawks wife every time she came to visit, and she told Hawk, this guard made life miserable for Hawk, and one day Hawk just lost it and killed him with a punch to the throat.As you can imagine Hawk was doing the roughest time there is,hole time.It was my job to feed people in the hole,thats how I met him I used to sneek him smokes when I could.There was this one prick of a guard who used to ride Hawk all the time, he told him the real reason he killed that guard was because he found out he was fucking Hawks wife,thats when Hawk tryed to grab him through the bars but his arms were way to big and the c.o. put Hawk on paper status for months(paper gown,papercup,paper blanket)and it sucks,its very cold and uncomfortable.So Hawk pisses and shits in a cup and lets it sit for 3 days, and threw it in the gaurds face, who then ran smack into a concrete column and split his lip, but he had already hit the panic button and here I am the only guy outside a cell holding a fucking mop to boot,luckily the first screw on the sceen had watched it all unfold on screen otherwise I would have caught a serious beat down, as it was I got knocked upside the head and told if I told the fellas on the yard what Hawk did theyd kill me.Hawk was transferd to the local county jail with a new beef(agg.assualt)I never saw him again.
Another benifit of time is you can better your education, I've seen guys with 3 or more B.A.s and all kinds of degrees,over 75 percent of guys with high school diplomas got them on the inside.But truth be told,most cons dont have a h.s.d.I have read enough books to fill a small library.And if I can make 1 suggestion its read, read, read, books, newspapers, magazines, legal breifs, and whatever youre lucky enough to get your hands on, newspapers are very very valuable, and I once saw a man almost kicked to death over a newspaper.Knowledge is power,the more you know the more useful you are,the more useful you are, the less likely they are to fuck with you,so read, read, read. Ive learned to speak a little spanish, and Ive also read parts of the carran, and know many Muslims.I started out this story by telling you about a choice I had made, do you remember? I can pinpoint the exact moment in time, it was when a freind went to hand me a joint,I was 12 years old, up until that very moment, I had never broken a single law. If you are at that point in your life, I warn you, choose wisely. Theres alot more to this story, did you like it, please let me know at wh@tampabay.rr.com

Thanks,
David (Fed-X)

[You are welcome to be as detailed as you want.. Just your name & where you did time, or as long winded as you like][/quote]

I was in the womens camp in Lexington, ky and my hubbie went to Mens camp in Marion Illinois. Glad to be done and willing to help anyone who needs it.

This is for anyone who was locked up and ignored by the parole board while they reviewed your case. IS IT WORTH IT to hire a parole attorney in some cases? Also, if any1 knows a good'n here in TX., please throw me the name........thanks yall.

Hi Jennifer,
I can't speak for the Texas parole board, but I do know about the Ohio one. I don't think that in most cases it would be worth the expense to hire an attorney for the parole board. They will do what they like anyway. So in my opinion it would just be throwing away good money. Unfortunately, there's really not much you can do to change their minds when they mostly make them up ahead of time. I hope I have helped, although I probably didn't tell you what you wanted to hear. Good luck, and let me know what happens.:)

-Lise

I was convicted of bank robbery (and was guilty of it, too), and was released from FCI Three Rivers in 1998.

Since then, and after a few jobs, I've started a political consulting and lobbying firm. I've joined these forums to:
1. Offer any advice I can to ex-cons and their families, and
2. Learn more about prison issues about which I may be able to apply my lobbying skills for the greated good.

i was "stationed" at lexington camp for women in 2004-2005


**dangerfield***

Couple mis & 1 felony outta Michigan. Clinton County to be exact. People in Michigan it's imperative that you retain an attorney well known in the area where you will be tried. Do NOT bring in lawyers from other parts of the state=waste of moolah.

I worked for the City of Pittsburgh and sued them for violating my civil rights.They "got even" by having me charged and convicted on one count of Perjury(in a civil deposition).I'm not guilty and am fighting to clear my name.:thumbsup:

I was incarcerated on 03-05-1994 for robbery/assault/weapons. I was in prison for 13 years, 3 months and 23 days. I have been out since June 28th of this year, about 62 days.

I realize that this is for people who may need advice. I know about doing time. I know about crime. And I know how to destroy everything around you.

If you ask me how to survive out here, you are asking the wrong person. I have a minimum wage job. I live in a crack neighborhood. I am in a relationship- that I am trying very hard through my own actions- to destroy. So no.....dont ask me about any of that.

Hi everyone, I have not been this forum for a bit, life gets busy as we all know and I have been hopping this year.

However, I want to welcome you to the PTO Family!

I want you all to know that we are here for you if we can help with advice or a shoulder when you need one that is what family is for.

Erinmichaels, I did not do anywhere near the time you did, and I have been home for four years, the day I walked out the gate, I thought oh my God I am not going to make it here on the outside.

But I am going to tell you, step back, take a deep breath and reevaluate what you want out of this life.

I came home to the same house I left in a crack neighborhood, been struggling for a bit now, and at times (you can ask a couple of the Mods here about this) I have about given up. Yet with the help of my parents, my life partner, and some friends from my military days, and PTO, here I am. Life is getting better.

Dangerfield, I had to laugh at your post about being stationed at Lexington Camp for Women! I was career Coast Guard and retired in 1995, well not long after that I got a bit of trouble.

During my military career I did six years sea duty, multiple deployments, and six (PCS) Permanent Change of Stations, so when it came time for Mom to "deploy" (my then 11 year old daughters view of it) to prison, we prepared for that "deployment" just as we had any other. It gave her some comfort and continuity which helped both her and I keep in a good frame of mind about my then upcoming incarceration.

Again, all, Welcome to the PTO Family, you have found a wonderful bunch of folks!

Patti

i did 13 mos. in chino for drinking with a flare gun oops.in alaska flare guns are no big deal

I was in Pulaski State Prison for Women July - Sept 2003, and July - May 2005-2006. My name is Laura Darley; my email is *personel email address removed per PTO Policy, contact member via pm.*. I do stay in touch with other inmates still in prison.

Is it possible for the Tx parole board to release inmates on parole who are eligible if they have 6-7yrs left on sentence? My man has been in near 13flat for stupid petty stuff we all did as kids and his 3rd review 08, wonder if he has a chance and appreciate all the info you guys have for us,thanks

I did 7 months in the local county, and then pulled chain to do another 400 days at Dawson State Jail.

I just got out of the Feds yet again.... I maxed out this time and my tour of duty consisted of FTC Oklahoma, FMC Rochester, FDC Dublin, USP Victorville, FCI Terminal Island, USP Lompoc....

If you got questions about any of those places Ill be glad to anwser them!

I was convicted of bank robbery (and was guilty of it, too), and was released from FCI Three Rivers in 1998.

Since then, and after a few jobs, I've started a political consulting and lobbying firm. I've joined these forums to:
1. Offer any advice I can to ex-cons and their families, and
2. Learn more about prison issues about which I may be able to apply my lobbying skills for the greated good.

How's that working out for you? Do you have many clients and can you discuss the profiles of some of them? There are certainly many of us that would like to be gainfully employed and have a lot of helpful knowledge about the system.

Hello there, my name is Sharon Blake and I left Danbury Prison Camp on 06/08/07. I spent 8 months there and then 90 days in Luzerne Community Corrections in Philadelphia PA. Would love to talk to anyone from either facility that I may know.:)

Did three years in Naval Federal Brig in Charleston SC for drug distribution while in the Navy. Then did 3 years in Texas for possession of meth. Was assigned to Middleton Transfer Facility, Holliday Transfer Facility, Sanchez State Jail, and Mineral Wells Pre-Parole Facility. Got out in Sept 06 and am doing pretty good now--have a good job, going back to college (will have my associates in November), but can't shake the meth problem--have it somewhat under control--at least I can clean up for ten days prior to reporting to piss in a cup. Enjoying my freedom--still on paper unitl 3/2010.

Served time in Virginia system 1975-1983 and returned 2005-2007. Have pictures of 500 Spring Street. Richmond. Its the old state pen that has been torn down. Also have pic of "Ole Sparkie"......

Served time in Virginia system 1975-1983 and returned 2005-2007. Have pictures of 500 Spring Street. Richmond. Its the old state pen that has been torn down. Also have pic of "Ole Sparkie"......
IF YOU CAN'T DO THE TIME.....DON"T DO THE CRIME...Everything is eventually found out..there are no secrets.

Hi

Many years ago in my "untamed youth" I spent two years in Holloway Prison in England. It just goes to show how different our judicial systems are as I'm sure if I had been living in the US I would have served a lot longer than 2 years for conspiracy, forgery, theft deception and the big one arson!. I was only 19 Im now 49 and can say with a smile I have never returned:D
Take care

artsela58/vinny did 21 years straight up in Florida. Been out now 8 years and STILL getting tangled up in all the new technology.

Hi everybody
Just got out from FCI Lompoc and Gateway HWH. If you have any questions I will try to give the answers.:cool:

Does anyone know if having a paid lawyer and attending AA and mental health classes will help against parole violations?

I'm able to give information to anyone about Lakin Corr. Cntr. in WV. Contact me @ SunFrog69@yahoo.com.

I spent 3 months in the Tombs in OLDE NEW YORK, I should never have come to Texas, they really don't like Yankees. Ramsey1, Telford, Michael, and all the stagecoach stops between.

I had to do state time in michigan and had to do fed time in Tallahassee, Florida....was gone for 7 yrs. I got my time ran concurrent to where my federal time was counting while I was doing my state time. I've been home for 5 yrs, now. I made a complete turn around with my life I've been at the same job, never have missed one day of work in 5 yrs. I bought a house, and i drive a 2007 Malibu...so it's hope and God is good....I feel the majority of people go back cause they really don't try, their intentions be good, but they eventually give in to their weaknessess

I'm David. I did time in FCI Texarkana. You want to know anything, just ask!

I spent 90 days there, just more than enough to gather the intel that I have observed during my brief stay. Some things unexpected/interesting and some are shocking!

Hawkeye-X

I have done time twice, the first was in the Wyoming Womens Center 1980-1982 Then again in New Mexico Womens 1993-1997. I did 5 years on paper after New Mexico and finally finished. Am I done with time, who knows, everytime I have heard people say I am never coming back, something happens. Hey Life happens. I hope I am done, I am getting to old. Its not like when I was younger and I felt like I had the whole world in front of me. So hopefully I have retired. I feel as though I have given each state enough of my time. And only I can keep myself out. I have grandchildren now and I am loving life

didntlearn1st,

Welcome!

Amazing how our perspective changes with age! Life does happen though, but now it is happening in a good way. Keep it going girl! I too have grandchildren and am loving life! That is such thing!

Keep at it, neither one of us want another go round!

Patti

I did my time in Missouri. I was charged with 1st degree murder, 1st degree assault & armed criminal action. After spending 370 days in the County Jail, they dropped the assault & armed criminal action & broke the murder down to 2nd degree. They came up with a deal offering me 10 yrs which is the minimum on my charge in MO. so I grabbed it. I did 6yrs 2 months on my 10. Did most of it at Farmington, a medium security joint. I have been out since 93 and walked down my 3yrs 10 months of paper. I married a lady who had also done time in MO D.O.C. and we are doing fine. You just gotta get your mind right like in "Cool Hand Luke".

I spent only 6 months in jail in VA. However it was enough 4 me to realize that was long enough! The next time I will spend no more than 5 years!! Thats according to my P.O.. If it wasn't 4 the fact I hired a lawyer I would probably not be out now!!

So I rolled out of Valley State on a Greyhound a minute ago, did almost all of 16 months in that hole. With the time in Lynwood before I plead out, I maxed out but I'm still on paper -- wtf is up with that?? Anyway just happy to be kickin freeside but not quite over it all, feel me? Like if I gotta run to the store or something I keep looking at my watch like, "okay, their gonna pop the doors in twenty" before I catch that no one pops the doors anymore, I can just walk out. Crazy. So anyway...

HomeBoy, Abslady, and blink88 Welcome to the PTO Family and to the Straight Talk Forum.

Patti

Just saw this forum and wanted to sign in. I served five years for involuntary manslaughter in military and federal prison. Before that I was a Marine Captain stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA. If anyone wants to know more about the USDB at Leavenworth, KS or FCI Beaumont in TX, let me know. I've been fortunate to meet some great people on here in the twn months I've been free and look forward to meeting more.

Blink88... For some reason I feel as though I need to watch my back afraid I'm going back each day!! I don't even try to get in trouble knowing 5 years is what I will serve the next time.

FriscoLady.... Thanks 4 the WELCOME...

Welcome Aboard Marine (usmcinfantry), from a retired Coast Guardsman!

Abslady, I know exactly how you feel. I am getting more and more involved in protesting the war, and came real close to going back last year! But with a son in Afghanistan who feels much the same as I, but because he is military has to keep his mouth shut. Well I have to speak for both of us and frankly my son's life is worth the risk.

Patti

When I was 18 I got locked up in the Feds over at Ft. Dix.
I think I spent 3 years there. And got 5 years federal supervised released.
Everyone in there kept telling me that they gave me 5 years supervised release cause they knew I stood a good chance at violating.

Bullshit......

I got out and did the supervise release and proved eveybody wrong.
They tried to tried to trip up the ole' Pete Miester over here, but I showed them.

Ha ha

I did time in tutwiler in alabama in 1996-1997. I was 16 years old and pregnant. locked up for possession of marijuana 1st and theft 1st. thank god thats all behind me now

Does Everybody Get 5 Years Supervised Release. That Is What My Old Man Has When He Gets Out, His Bro Got Out In 2004 And Has 5 Years Supervised Also

Yah so many chicks same straight back they were all like "hang on to my TV until I get back," one chick violated on the damn bus back to l.a. she got into a fight. so far I'm straight but we'll see when my old man gets out we have a do not contact order but hes my husband so wtf?!


Blink88... For some reason I feel as though I need to watch my back afraid I'm going back each day!! I don't even try to get in trouble knowing 5 years is what I will serve the next time.

FriscoLady.... Thanks 4 the WELCOME...

I spent 6 years in Tehachapi, CA on a 7/85% for robbery 1st w/a handgun enhancement. I did reception in Tehachapi, and they asked if I wanted to stay on 3 yard as trustee or go somewhere else. I figured I had to do my time somewhere, and if I could avoid another long-as-hell bus ride in shackles with the probability of being moved even further from my family, I might as well. I spent 2 years each on the 3,2, and 1 yards there.

I paroled in 2003, did my 3 years with no violations, and have now been off parole for almost 2 years (in May).

My li'l brother is currently serving an 11-year deal for man-1 up in Pelican Bay. I found PTO while trying to get info on what I was allowed to send him when he went to the hole, and after looking around in here, found that not only is there a wealth of support and information in the people who use this site, but also that I can give something back by sharing my experience and knowlege that I have attained through my own incarceration and that of my brother.

Thank you, Fed-X, for this site, and the rest of you for your support!!!

Ive been in and out or Valley State Prison for Women (VSPW) for the past 7 yrs. Im happy to say I just discharged my number yesterday 3-7-08.
IMISSHER

Imissher and to all the others Welcome to the PTO Family and home!

Patti

Just got out of Arthur Kill Correctional after doing a 3 year bid.

:o IM A CONVICTED FELON DID A 2 YEAR TERM FOR MANUFACTURING METH .. I SERVED MY SENTENCE IN CHOWCHILLA, CIW AND MALIBU FIRE CAMP ... IVE BEEN OUT FOR 9 YEARS NOW AND WORKING ON MY 10TH YEAR OF SOBRIETY ....IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE DONT HESITATE TO ASK .. IM A NURSE AND WORK IN CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY SO IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTION IN REGARDS TO CD AND HEALTH I CAN HELP THERE TOO ....

Welcome to the family here at PTO and Welcome home. Congrats on the Sobriety detoxnurse

I was incarcerated for one year and one week, five months of that time was at Alderson. From what I heard from others who had been in other prisons, Alderson was the worse place to be.

God Bless you shopirl. Best of luck to you.

I did 5 1/2 years fed...I was in FCI Tallahassee, FPC Marianna, and FPC Coleman, then fished up back in Tallahassee. I was in the halfway house for 3 months and now I'm doing the last 3 of my sentence on house arrest. I amm looking for anyone who may be able to help me with the readjustment. It's harder than it seems!!!

My Name is Rafael Hernandez. I was Incarcerated in the New Hampshire State Prison, doing a 1 1/2 to & year Bid for Drug Posession. I was released the 1st of april. The New Hampshire State Prison Inmates have a lot of concerns that need to be address. I am willing to act as an intermediary and representative voice for my fellow inmates.

Welcome back to the free world Rafael and to PTO! My husband too wants to work toward prison reform when he is finally released.

I'm a slow learner, a five time loser. I did time In Jeff City, twice, in the early and mid-60s. Managed to get into San Quentin on (I swear to God) April Fools' Day, 1968, and remained there until shortly after the Marin County Massacre (the George and Jonathan Jackson unpleasantness), went to Canon City in '72 for 15-30 and served about five. In '80, I went back to Canon City (for the last time) on a 10-16. Served about four.

I was married (a widower now, since 2002), I have two great kids, a boy and a girl, 27 and 23, respectively. They're both college graduates and solid citizens.

I was not a nice guy in my youth, but I like to think I paid a bit of my karmic debt by becoming a mental health professional and working with chronically mentally ill folks for 10 years. I've also worked as a journalist and editor.

I'm looking forward to learning a bit more about prison-as-it-is (which is, I know, much different from prison-as-it-was).

I know a few good stories that can now be told (guys die, and gossip can no longer hurt them), and I'll respond to anyone who writes.

Frank Driscoll

Im a 26 year old female and I did 5 years and nine months in the California Prison system on a carjacking charge.

I was released July of 2007 and i more or less stumbled across this site while looking for more positive means of support.

Im a 26 year old female and I did 5 years and nine months in the California Prison system on a carjacking charge.

I was released July of 2007 and i more or less stumbled across this site while looking for more positive means of support.

Welcome to PTO! :wave: I hope that you will find that positive means of support you seek here. :)

Hi...My name is Bill. I did 19 flat in Texas. Still on parole until 2031. I enjoy helping parents, wives, girlfriends try to make sense of the system. I enjoy helping others.

im here

Hello my name is Michelle and I have done time in the Womens State Prison in Arizona also known as Perryville. I did two years and I also did one year up in Washington State. I have been out almost a year and a half now and if anyone has questions I will be happy to answer them.

michelle

This is keith L here. I was released recently on parole after serving 5 yrs on a 1 to 10 year sentence in west virginia. I served most of it at Huttonsville Corr Ctr. Normally on a 1 to 10 yr bid a person would discharge it in 5 but I lost alot of good time in the sytem. It is easy to do in wv ha ha. Anyhow good luck to all I have been on parole now 18 months and so far so good.

my name is mark. i have done time in ind. and mich. 10 years each. i just completed parole in march from michigan. now, i don't have to feel so restricted in things that I might say against the DOC and I am more than willing to help others understand this crazy, outdated system. I won't tell you what you want to hear just to ease your mind. I keep things real because that is the only way you can get anything done.

Hi, my name is Pam and I've only been home a little over a month from doing a 5 year bid. I was in 3 of the Womens prisons, so if anyone has questions I am here to help!!

VCCW, FCCW, PCU#13

I just returned from a year at the Marion IL Federal Prison Camp. Glad to answer any & all questions about that facility.

patrick

Fountain Correctional?? Just curious...

And, welcome to PTO!


Hi, my name is Pam and I've only been home a little over a month from doing a 5 year bid. I was in 3 of the Womens prisons, so if anyone has questions I am here to help!!

VCCW, FCCW, PCU#13

I just wanted to say Hi :wave: to all the newer people here. I stop by this forum from time to time to see what's going on, and I see there's a lot of newcomers.
So, welcome to PTO.... see you around the forums! :)

I did a two year term back in 1998 I was at chowchilla, ciw and malibu fire camp
although its been a while.... if you have any questions, please dont hesitate to ask

Fountain Correctional?? Just curious...


Guessing Fluvanna.

Fountain Correctional?? Just curious...

And, welcome to PTO!

Hey Jody Good to see you!

Fluvanna is what she is speaking of.

My niece is there.

Patti

Hi, my name is Pam and I've only been home a little over a month from doing a 5 year bid. I was in 3 of the Womens prisons, so if anyone has questions I am here to help!!

VCCW, FCCW, PCU#13

myers, Welcome to the PTO Family!

I left VCCW in March of 03.

Patti

Hi Patti... long time no see, huh? I've been spending most of my time in the inmate card forum, but stop in to check on all the ex-cons from time to time! :)
I do hope you've been doing well!!


Hey Jody Good to see you!

Fluvanna is what she is speaking of.

My niece is there.

Patti

Hi all i'm new on here so thought i'd check in out. I got home a little under a months ago after doing 18 months in 2 prisons in England. Looking forward to chatting with you all.

My name is Benjamin and I did time at USP Lompoc, FCI Terminal Island and FMC Rochester and a small stint at FDC Dublin

I have been out for 3 years from a 14 year bid. I did 5 in Draper and 9 in Holman (Alabama). Before that I had done County and City time but nothing major. Also some Pre-Pen. I just joined here last night so I'm surfing around the site to get the gist of it all. My name is T Mike and I'll be happy to answer any questions or help anybody who got somebody on the inside if I can.

Hi Patti... long time no see, huh? I've been spending most of my time in the inmate card forum, but stop in to check on all the ex-cons from time to time! :)
I do hope you've been doing well!!

Jody sorry for taking so long to answer you my email notifications are not working for some reason.

Been doing good hon! Living well and succeeding at life - the best revenge on the state!

LOL!

Have not seen you in ages what you been up too?

Patti

Also I want to Welcome everyone to the PTO Family and to the Straight Talk Forum!

Patti

Hi Patti... glad to hear you're doing good! I kind of backed out of PTO for awhile because I had to get my own life straighened out... which I've half assed succeeded in doing..lol.

I've been hanging around again for about 7 months or so... and loving it. Have I told ya, I had a book published? It's a compilation of artwork, poetry, and writings from inmates from around the world.... this has also taken up quite a bit of my time! It's going well so far though... check me out- www.jodyannshaw.com

It really is good to see you and some of the others.... it's not until you're away for a little while when you realize how much you missed everyone! And, so many people have left the boards while I was gone! I am very glad to see you're still here! :D

Jody you have been missed too hon!

I always felt and still do feel a bit of comfort when I see you on site! I know both of us have had our hard times since we came home, but as long as you were there I knew that no matter the challenge I could make it too!

No you had not told me, but I am popping over to the site to see it and get a copy of your book!

I have been wanting to tell you this, but I have been so afraid that I would jinx it by saying anything to anyone.

I have been applying for jobs back home in San Francisco for almost a year now. Have not had many bites because of the awful question we have to answer yes too on the apps.

However, I have had two interviews, I soooooo thought we were going home last October because they flew me out, all expenses paid by the company for the interview, called my references and everything, then I did not get the job.

I was so devastated that I did not apply for another at home till March, well, I hope I am not jinxing this!

But again the company flew me out - this time to Oakland across the Bay from SF and paid every thing. Interview went fantastic, one of the interviewers made the comment that it was really fantastic the come back I have made since prison.

Well Thursday last my Boss called me in the office and said that they had called for my references, love my Boss and can use him as both a business and personal reference.

Anyway I am sitting on pins and needles hon! I am soooooooooooooooo! Scared!

I want to go home so bad!

Whether this works out or not or I have to be patient and keep trying to get back home, you and I have to try to get together or at least chat on the phone soon!

Hugs,

Patti

Oh wow Patti.... don't worry, you're not jinxing anything!!! It sounds very promising, and I am definitely keeping me fingers (and toes, if needed :) ) crossed for you!
You deserve all the good things in life that you want, and in time, I'm sure they will all come to pass! :thumbsup:
You just keep pushing, and you will get where you want to be! You are a real inspiration to so many people... and I just know that this life holds many great things for you.

I would absolutely love to hang out .... or chit chat some time! I'm going on vacation in a few weeks, then I"ll be stuck right here probably until next year! :) But, we'll definitely have to work on something. You and your posts/advice have helped me through many things... and I'll always be grateful for that.

It sounds like life is about ready to take you on a wonderful journey... I am so happy for you :D

Just completed 4 years in the Georgia Prison System. First time down. Still finding my footing as I re-enter society. For anyone that has loved ones in the GDOC, be there for them in any way possible. They need your support. Only someone that has been through the system knows what that life is like.

I did a term in Valley State Prison 4 Woman in Chowchilla California .

Has anyone done time at Charlotte Correctional Institution in Punta Gorda,Fl.

I would appreciate any information I can get...Thank you, Mia

Was a guest of Kansas DOC for years. I am considered a VO because it was for Involuntary Manslaughter.

Welcome to the PTO Family everyone!

Broken Welcome Home and back to PTO!

Good to see you!

Patti

Just completed 4 years in the Georgia Prison System. First time down. Still finding my footing as I re-enter society. For anyone that has loved ones in the GDOC, be there for them in any way possible. They need your support. Only someone that has been through the system knows what that life is like.


my fiance is in the gdoc system ... just wondering if you knew what diagnostics is like .. this is my first time going through this .. he got picked up on a probation violation and he just got transferred to coastal state prison they say he will only have to be in there 12-15months but i dont know how true that is ... just a couple questions is he going to be ok ?? we have our 1st born on the way and he cant be here for her birth.. but please get back with me .. and let me know something that go on inside .. please

I just did 9 years in the system @ WCI,AVC in Louisiana. I was convicted of Att. Man but was charged with Att. Murder. I was an inmate lawyer for the time I was in, I studied and ate law. In my time of incarceration I helped give backl close to 200 years for others. I am here to assist in questions of law and how the system was in my sight.

:cuffs: After twewnty years on probation, two spin dry bids in Framingham Ma, I eventually ended up Fed, - four different institutions until my destination. Sentenced to 5 yearsTallahassee Fla. with fed supervised release to follow. My charges/ conspiracy to sell heroin. you know how it works. Phone taps. never sold to a cop or got caught with any dope....
Jails, Institions and death.
Those have been all of my experiences.

In solidarity
joanne

I was locked up @ Rockville Correctional Facility in IN, from 1999-2001 for assisting a criminal. Since my (early) release from prison, I have enrolled in college, gotten married, got custody of both my kids back and stayed out of trouble! Drug Free for 7 years!

Now I am waiting on my man to get out! We met while we were both in the county jail in 1999, had an on again off again relationship for 6 years when we decided to get married. He is now in a rehabilitation program that has been incredible in changing his thinking patterns! :)

Just wanted to say Welcome to PTO to all the newcomers! :wave:
I'm glad your'e all here... and I hope to see you on the boards! :)

i started off at a low security federal facility in seagoville tx and worked my way up to usp atlanta. i got sentenced 120 months and did 123 months..(spent an extra 3 months in the halfway house because i had no where to go.)

I was at Terminal Island FCI from Feb. 03-Jan. 05

Be happy to answer any questions anyone has. This site helped me before I went in. So I'm here now. :)

-Mike

10 years served on 10 years time in Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The charge was Aggravated Assault of a Public Servant, 1st degree felony due to serious bodily injury. Not proud of it, in fact alcohol played a big part in it. Now I'm here to tell everyone what it was really like on the inside. If any of you CONS out there need someone to holler at I'll be here!

i have served time in mn and nd county jails

I was at Colemans Womans Camp for a six month sentence.

I did time in Lexington KY at the Federal Women Camp. Anyone needs information please let me know. Was there from Feb 08 until Jun 08

Just wanted to say Hi and welcome all the newcomers to PTO! :wave:

I did my first stint in the CA prison system for Poss/Sales. I went through reception in San Quentin, and was later designated to High Desert State Prison (I was a Level 3)in Susanville, CA.

A couple of years after I was released, I thought it'd be fun to steal about 1.3 million from people's bank accounts, mostly executives at Starbucks Corporate in Seattle, so I was a guest of the Feds at FCI Sheridan (Medium) in Sheridan, OR.

After my Federal stint, I never wanna go back. My former cellie said it best:

"The real punishment in the Feds isn't being locked up. It's having to deal with the kind of people they have in here (lames, child molestors, rats, etc)."

I did 3 straight of a 10 yr bit in Indiana

I want to Welcome everyone to the Straight Talk forums and to the PTO Family!

Patti

I Did 2 Years In Ca State Prisons. Not Proud But It Is My Past.

3 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for prescription fraud. Spent most of my time at the French Robertson Unit outside Abilene. Very negative experience that altered my life. Not proud of my actions but I felt that I paid my debt though evidently society doesn't since I'm constantly denied housing and employment because of my past.

i did from 10 and a half years old untill i was age 22 in the california youth authority in ventura california then i did the rest of my time in chowchilla womens prison i maxed out on dec.22,1992 i have been out for at leat 16 years but i still eat on a time frame and when i shower i take 5 min i am a 39 year old female mother of 3 girls ages 14,13,and 7 and i even ask if its ok if i can eat my own food and my husband just says yes you live here to he knows that its hard for me my whole life i did inside and i tryed getting help but they say that my ways are set and i dont trust anyone and keep very few friends and even though i did hard time if i didnt go to prison i would not be so street wise ant one else have this problem

Welcome to the PTO Family Kambueno!

A fellow expatriate Californian I see, Glad to have you with us.

Take your time settle in and get to know us. Many of us have been there, and done that, and know exactly what you are talking about.

Patti

I did time at CCWF..in Chowchilla, CA, and then transfered to CRC..in Norco, CA. I was only there for a total of 10 months. I did what needed to be done and got off of parole. I don't want to ever have to go back. I have been involved with the prison system for many years. Not only for myself but because of friends,family,boyfriends, Husband. This website is great for information, but more so for support through the rough times....I will hopefully be through with all of this come March of 2010.

Welcome to PTO! Glad you found us!
This truly is a great support system here!


I did time at CCWF..in Chowchilla, CA, and then transfered to CRC..in Norco, CA. I was only there for a total of 10 months. I did what needed to be done and got off of parole. I don't want to ever have to go back. I have been involved with the prison system for many years. Not only for myself but because of friends,family,boyfriends, Husband. This website is great for information, but more so for support through the rough times....I will hopefully be through with all of this come March of 2010.

I did 5.5 years in the Va Prison System - Fluvanna, PCU#13 and VCCW. Only been out since 4/21/08.

Welcome to Straight Talk Myers!

Patti

I did 36 years in the Michigan prison system. Just released.

Did my time @ SCI Graterford, maxed out 11-20-08. The best thing about being free is being with my family. And having the free will to chose to do the right thing. Tough times don't last tough people do. So when times get tough weather it be inside or out side just remember that you can control your actions, by making responsible and respectable choices for your life. Because when it's all said and done it's you who has to look that man in the mirror. Rashid!

:eek: i did 15 months in county.I was charged with attempt to manufacture of meth child abuse and neglect and forgery. I got out on time served.this monday i was charged with introduction of contriband for having 1/2 of a hyro pill that was the stupidest thing i couldv'e done I go to court dec. 3 rd. I did my time in monroe county tennessee If you have been incarcerated any time in the past, please sign in here. If you would like, please also tell us when and where and anything else you feel is relevant.

Please ONLY use this thread to "sign in" and not for general conversation. My goal for this thread is to let PTO members know who we are in the event they have questions for us, and for future ex-cons/offenders/prisoners to see there are others of us here.

Thanks,
David (Fed-X)

[You are welcome to be as detailed as you want.. Just your name & where you did time, or as long winded as you like]

After looking at everyone on here I'm wondering if I even fit in. I guess I was "lucky", I only got 30 days county. Still on probation, and if my probation get revoked I get anywhere from 10 days to four years DOC.

I don't care what any court thinks- I ain't gonna let a queer rape me. My home is still my home and they can burn in hell (here's a match).

Did my time I Wisconsin's Women's System

6 weeks at Taycheeda for intake
Rest of my 14 months in Milwaukee Women's Correctional Center on 6th and Keefe.

cornered my friend, I do not condone rape in any way shape or form, my daughter is a rape victim and that led directly to my crime.

However, I do not condone or agree with the use of the word "queer" in the context that you have given it.

I understand where you are coming from - and if I had gotten my hands on my daughter's rapist I can promise you that I would be doing life without - and even today I think it would have been worth it.

So I do understand your anger and hurt and pain and your right to defend yourself, but not all gays and lesbians are rapist as not all straights are. I as a lesbian take extreme offence to that word.

Please know that I am not saying this as a moderator at the moment, I am saying it as a friend who can and does sympathize and relate to your feelings.

Oh and by the way, time is time whether 30 days or life and yes you belong here!

Just please be more selective in your choice of words.

Patti

I am a Texas Ex Offender. 565 days at Dawson State Jail.

Shortyraw, Imissscott, GirlGemini, and AlwysHisWife and to all the others that have joined the PTO Family and Straight Talk Family - Welcome to the family! It is good to see you join us!

Patti

I spent 13 months in federal prison - 11 months in women's FPC in Danbury, a few weeks in Oklahoma City and 6 weeks in Chicago MCC.

I was sentenced in 2003 for an offense committed in 1993 - money laundering as part of a drug trafficking conspiracy. Karma's a bitch. Classic situation where a lengthy indictment includes a foreign kingpin (who remains a free man) at the top, and me literally at the bottom of the list of names.

But my time was short, so I can *only* be grateful, especially when I saw how women without decent legal representation were serving much, much longer sentences.

Happy to help with info for any women who are in the federal system, specifics of Danbury or *shudder* Chicago MCC. I'm interested in drug law reform, prison reform -esp. health, education & vocational - and re-entry.

Welcome to the PTO Family Peeper333.

Sit down, grab a cup of coffee and join in the conversation!

Patti

I spent some vacation time in Danbury Camp for 18 months. Anyone need info, I'm here for you.

Hola!

I did 7 Months in Coleman LOW, in Fla. Thats the extent of my bid(s) for now.

I got arrested my first time a week after I turned 20 but that was put on stet cuz it was a bullshit charge. All my trouble started when I got hooked on Heroin 4 years ago. I started "boosting" to support my habit. In 2006 I was arrested 3 times for misdemeanor theft charges 1 in Baltimore Co, MD and 2 in Anne Arundel Co, MD and once for posession of heroin in Baltimore City, MD. I only did 10 days on the possesion charge (thank god cuz Bmore city jail is nasty!) I got sentenced to 3 seperate 1 year sentences for all the theft charges but thankfully they were ran concurrent and I was serving them in the Baltimore County Detention Center in Towson, MD. I was sentenced on December 21, 2006 and I caught a break and only served 4 months in the jail, then I was transferred to a rehab called where I served 5 more months. I was finally released on September 21, 2007. I started using again when my dad died in Oct. 2007 and got clean again for about 4 months, then May 08 I started using again I did a number of things to make money but the one that was easiest was always stealing in a way I think I liked it more. Anyhow it got really bad this go around finally me and my man decided to drive 2 hours up to PA to "boost" and we got to the 2nd store and got arrested. I only did 2 months this time in Cumberland County Prison in Carlisle, PA. I went to court on 12/23/08 which I wasn't even aware I was going to court I thought Id have to wait to February. Anyhow the judge gave me time served and 6 months unsupervised parole and I was actually only convicted of 2 counts of Criminal Conspiracy to commit retail theft and they dropped the thefts. I believe that GOD gave me a another chance at life. Before I got locked up I was homeless in Bmore city and really on the road to destruction I really think I had given up on life altogether.

Today I have 75 days clean, Im patiently waiting for my man to come home so we can start our new clean and sober life together.

My first commitment was for 6 months at Central Juvenile Hall in Los Angeles, I was 14. I've done 2 one-year County Lids, plus another 6 months, and a couple of 90 day sentences at L.A. County Jail. In 1995 I was sentenced to 17 years for drug charges (manufacturing), and did almost 11 years before being released on parole in 2005. During that time I was housed at Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP), California Medical Facility (CMF) in Vaccaville, Ca., Where I spent 366 days in the Secure Housing Unit (SHU), after my SHU term was up, I was sent to San Quentin Prison (SQ), then was sent to California Training Facility (CTF), Soledad, CA. I was at "North" until my points dropped, then went to the level 3 yard, where I finished my term. All of my crimes were drug-related, but the manufacturing beef involved a fire where I was very badly burned, about 65% (God knew what it would take to straighten me out). I've been drug-free since April, 14, 1995, the day of the fire. I discharged my parole in January 2008, and gave them back their number. I did not waste the time given me by the State. I used it to get honest, to gain understanding, and to break the patterns that had led me down that road in the first place. I still fight to overcome issues directly related to the fire and my incarceration.

I did 26.5 months at SCC (Jamestown) and DVI (Tracy). Paroled just over a year ago and I'm hoping to discharge my number here real soon.

I just found this site and am looking forward to discussing topics in the forums.

I was incarcerated in 2000 and spent my time in Allenwood's Federal Camp. I was one of the "fortunate" ones (sarcastically) that underwent "Deisel Therapy" It took me three months to get to my designation.

County pods, then Oklahoma FTC, on to Elkton, then Loretto and Lewisburg before settling in at Allenwood. (Took AGES for my commisary cash to catch up!) I happened to stumble on this site while looking up other fellow inmates.

Welcome Everyone!

Welcome to the PTO Family, come on in grab a cup of coffee, grab a bagel and join in the conversation!

Watch the coffee though six years sea duty in the service taught me how to make, and enjoy coffee that was closer to diesel fuel than coffee!

Again Welcome to the PTO Family and we are looking forward to hearing from you!

Patti

Six time loser; over 30 years in the Texas prison system - Ramseys, Ellis, Walls, Wynne, etc.

I did 3.5 years at Hayes and Handcock State prisons in the wonderful state of GA. I got out, stayed out for 8 months, then went back for another 4 years.

Now I am retired. Learning to be a music minister. Any questions abut GA prisons, I will try to answer.

God Bless YOU.:thumbsup:

I did two years in Texas, It seems i was always moving around, Was at 5 diff units in that time, finally went to the Roach unit and stayed there until i was released.

I served 27 months in the USDB and earned a DD on my DD214, which means that I can NEVER re-enlist and gain any type of redemption that way. My MOS was 11 Charlie (Mortar Crewman in the Infantry) and I enlisted in 1987 (for 2 years), hence the screen name. My actual first name is Chris. I am now about to turn 40 years old, and just now facing my own internal demons. I've lived with anger, self loathing, thoughts of suicide, alcoholism, and a general hatred of people and society for the past 20 years. I have made ethical mistakes all my life, and I hope to help others avoid the same ones I have made in order that they can do better than myself. I am also here to tell others that there is hope for a good future if you work towards it and remain focused. The most important thing is to gain internal peace and forgiveness. It takes a lot of soul searching and really hard decisions to be made.

My mother Teresa Rosa is supposedly in CCWF in chowchilla according to her boyfriend. Her address is 503-204L? Can anyone tell me what this means, how long it will take her to get mail I sent her and also money I sent through Jpay? I am getting nowhere with the mailroom, counselor, etc....and have been calling every place I can to find out what her charges are and when she gets out, etc....to no avail. They say I have to get the info from the inmate. Well, Teresa is my biological mother and she placed me up for adoption so I dont have alot of info on her and I am sure she does not have mine. That being said, aside for waiting for her to maybe get my letter and await her response, is there anything else I can do to get more info? I just want to know why she's there and when I will hear form her and when she is getting out and how I may be able to help. I live in Las Vegas and dont know alot about this stuff so please help! Thanks in advance. :)

TT

I hope this helps some: www dot cdcr dot ca dot gov/Visitors/Inmate_Locator.html

I was incarcerated in Carswell FMC for 11 months. Releasedin June 2008. Never been in trouble before and it was quite the experience. Coming home and adjusting was harder than I thought it would be...but things are slowing working out.

I have not been back to this thread for a bit. Life is as usual hectic.

However, I want to Welcome the new posters to the PTO and Straight Talk Family!

Good to see you join us.

We share both the good times and the bad in this forum and at times we lean on each other for encouragement and strength. But that is what family does and in this time that we face the free world with anticipation, hope, sometimes fear and disappointment we know that we have each other and with the help of all here we WILL SUCCEED in coming home and success on our road back!

Again Welcome and glad to have you join us!

Patti

7 years flat, Vandalia, MO. Released in January. Maxed. Having HARD time adjusting to "real world". Miss gf TERRIBLY (she's in CCC in MO)

knd2008 Welcome Home and Welcome to the PTO and Straight Talk Family!

Grab a Bagel (or your favorite Breakfast Treat) and some Coffee, a chair, and join the conversation!

Glad to have you with us!

Patti

5 years in the system in Arizona, a total of 2 a little at a time in Joe's MCSO jail and 3 at Apache Unit/Winslow Complex ADOC. I am glad to have found PTO and have already made some friends here. I still have 8 months paper to do before I kill my number. Any help I can give on AZ prisons, just ask. :)

I got 27 months in the feds, served 18, and 6 mo. of halfway house. I still have 3 years of paper, but I anticipate killing it after 1 year.

I did 6 months at FMC Rochester and am very familiar with how that place works. I'll be glad to help anyone with any questions about how they operate there, because its a little different than other places.

I did 12 months at FPC Englewood in Colorado. That was a camp.

I'm also something of an "expert" on RDAP, being that I got it for myself with no outside help, from within, and against a very uncooperative and hostile staff. I've helped others get it too. Hit me with any dap questions and i'll answer them the best I can.

Going in was terrible. Doin the time was dreadful. Coming home, was actually alot harder than I ever imagined. I thought everything would just fall into place but its been a struggle every step of the way just to get back on my feet. I lost it all when I went in, but I didn't think it would be as hard as it is to get it "all" back. Nor was I prepared to lose some friends and family members, or be shunned by various elements of society. The felon thing pops up alot more than I would of thought. I'm making good progress, and glad to be out. Its been an eye-opening experience.

Hi, I'm from Missouri, I've been to Vandalia (Women's Eastern Reception & Diagnostic Correctional Center), Chillicothe Correctional Center, Kansas City Honor Center, and Jackson, Clay, Ray, Platte, and Clinton Counties(last one was a short stop...they don't hold women)
I was in WERDCC for 8 mos. in 2002
KC Honor Center in 2002 & 2004
Chillicothe for 6 mos. in 1998-99
And County Jails for about a month a piece
My knowledege isn't current, but I know the general layouts and atmosphere

Hi K,

Did you ever serve time in CMF in Vacaville? By the way, I wish you the best...

Lola

I've done time in numerous Calif. prisons

Hi eveyone, been off the forms for a while. But returned, life is a hard master. Louisiana prisons from 1985-1997, 2002-2008 parole revoked. been out a year now and still dealing with my prison time and the issues.

S.C. 2 yrs. & months. Released last year 4-1. No probation or parole..max out. Glad it's over.

Hi all and Welcome to PTO!

Good to have you all here with us!

Patti

James - Deusmortis

All facilities in Florida:

Hendry CI
Brevard CI
Taylor CI
Martin County Work Camp
Ft. Pierce Work Release
All 3 reception centers.

County jails in Vero Beach and Martin.

Probation in St. Lucie County, FL
Transferred last 3 months of probation to Kent County, Michigan (HUGE mistake.)

I suppose that last comment deserves some explanation.
I transferred to Michigan to be closer to friends and family. When I transferred in, I was entered into Michigan's system, but they marked my date of entry as the same day that the probation was transferred, so anyone who does a Michigan background check sees a conviction date of 2005, instead of 1999. Also, the Michigan probation officer was a complete ass, whereas my Florida officer was excellent.

I served time in a DOC facility in Florida. 10 months for a white collar crime. Just got out almost going on a year ago! Still have issues, but am working though them. If any women have questions please ask. I would love to help you.

Just wanted to stop in and say hello to all the new-comers to the forum!
Welcome to PTO!

My Cali CDC # is from 94 since then I never spent more than 2 months out my po recently told me im doing good & he's going to request early discharge 4 me I havent been eligible 4 that in like 12 yrs neway took class to learn a little @ computer this is the first site that caught mt attention besides music & porno ha ha:cool:

my mother teresa rosa is supposedly in ccwf in chowchilla according to her boyfriend. Her address is 503-204l? Can anyone tell me what this means, how long it will take her to get mail i sent her and also money i sent through jpay? I am getting nowhere with the mailroom, counselor, etc....and have been calling every place i can to find out what her charges are and when she gets out, etc....to no avail. They say i have to get the info from the inmate. Well, teresa is my biological mother and she placed me up for adoption so i dont have alot of info on her and i am sure she does not have mine. That being said, aside for waiting for her to maybe get my letter and await her response, is there anything else i can do to get more info? I just want to know why she's there and when i will hear form her and when she is getting out and how i may be able to help. I live in las vegas and dont know alot about this stuff so please help! Thanks in advance. :)

tt

relax theres plenty u can do u u start calling and demanding to speak to her counselor if they refuse demand to speak to capt of b-yard cuz thats where 503 is her counselor can relay a message from immediate family and can aid in contacting them my advise be polite yet firm

i did time at boron federal prison camp in the 90s. the place wasn't bad had a swimming pool there. ate steak at least once a week. great education center, never saw one fight in the year i was there. the inmates got to work at edwards airforce base. i even got a furlough. i believe the prison was deactivated in 2000. the only drawback was it was located in the middle of the mojave desert.

I was at Julia Tutwiler Prison for Women in Wetumpka,Alabama. I was in the main prison,not down the hill. I eos'ed my time..no wr or any programs..all of my time to the door in the main prison.

I have spent the majority of my teenage years behind bars,,,i'm not proud of it but i;ve learn many thing while there,,at age 14 i was sent to the california youth authority to serve my sentence,,,i was not a trouble, but i had my few shares of enemies,,they soon became friends with me also,,i discovered my passion for music while preston( shout out to my mentor (terry griffin) for keeping my head straight) i was later transferred to n.a. Chad to finish my time,,dec /14/2001 was my release date maxed out my time,,i now live in massachusettes ,doing music,,havent been in prison since i left ca.

Like JP, I started at an early age first arrest at 13, Mostly Just J-Hall, and camp. .. 3 state terms and some county time as an adult .. =( Sry, its so brief. Don't wanna leave the worng impression, XD. ( 2 track 4, both in challenger) as minor. lol ...all in CA

Just came home from 28 months in the FEDS, ( U.S.P Atlanta, F.C.I Raybrook, U.S.P Canaan) Quite an experience, not to many problems, but had enough, catchin the transfers broke the time up well but it always sucks walkin a new yard. Made me a better man for sure.

John/Runner/Little John the Runner actually,
That was what I was called at the Hilton on the Hudson. I served most of my eight years between Sing Sing and Clinton. I would get into one thing or another in Sing Sing "Usually Caught with a large amount of jail house wine" a couple of those and back up north I would go. Eventually I would work my way back down to Sing Sing again. Did the up and down thing about 3-4 times. I did 8 years on eight years. Couldn't stop getting high. I would make wine every where. Had it going in 7 different places at once. I would trade some for weed and drink the rest. Funny thing is, after I got out I got sober. I ended up a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor/Certified Relapse Prevention Specialist. In between 77-85, in suffolk county in 77 after they extradited me back from California and shipped me to the state in 1978/78-A-1497. Anybody in Sing Sing in may of 85. ABC TV filmed my release, they wanted to sponsor my running career. I guess it was a big thing at the time. I said F-it and went my way. I maxed out and left New York within two hours of my release. I didn't come back for 4 years. I needed to get clean and sober first. I Knew where I would end up if I lived on L.I. and I was still drinking and drugging.
John/Runner

Welcome aboard John!

I'm almost 31 and have been in and out of lockup since I was 19. There's a warrant out now on two burglaries and evading detention charges. And they can tie me to three more B-&-E charges. Been to prison twice, forgery and hot checks.

Served lots of time in Texas jailhouses -- Washington Co., Austin Co., Travis County and Tarrant Co., Williamson Co., Grimes Co., Holiday Unit, Montgomery Co. If I turn myself in, I'll probably work a hoe squad for the next 12 to 20 years.

My whole family is locked up all at once for the third time now, My daddy and sister are down are selling meth. Daddy’s in N. Texas and little sister is near Austin as is a first cousin. Mom’s in the county jail where I would turn myself in. Think they’ll let us do brunch on Mother’s Day?

I'm almost 31 and have been in and out of lockup since I was 19. There's a warrant out now on two burglaries and evading detention charges. And they can tie me to three more B-&-E charges. Been to prison twice, forgery and hot checks.

Served lots of time in Texas jailhouses -- Washington Co., Austin Co., Travis County and Tarrant Co., Williamson Co., Grimes Co., Holiday Unit, Montgomery Co. If I turn myself in, I'll probably work a hoe squad for the next 12 to 20 years.

My whole family is locked up all at once for the third time now, My daddy and sister are down are selling meth. Daddy’s in N. Texas and little sister is near Austin as is a first cousin. Mom’s in the county jail where I would turn myself in. Think they’ll let us do brunch on Mother’s Day?

Can't tell you what to do. I can sit here and say turn yourself in to get it over with. At the same time I have been in that same position and ran until I got caught. The thing is when I got caught I pissed off the local court system ended up with consecutive sentences. When on the run most people keep doing less then legal means of support. Kind of digging a bigger hole. In reality Iv'e only had one friend that didn't get caught. He's been gone since 1981, He might just be dead though. No one has heard anything from him since the late 80's when another friend ran into him on another fishing boat off Montauk. That's 20 yrs now, I would go with not caught/deceased.
John/Runner

I know what I have to do, it's just a matter of getting around to do it. They've also charged me with evading detention, which will mean at least a year in county jail, which is bad where I am, though I guess jail ain't great anywhere. And they'll definitely hold my feet to the fire, since they charged me last year while I was in jail for theft, but had to let it go because they had no evidence -- which they seem to have now.

I got no defense for what I did, because I stole to put money in everyone's commissary accts. And my mom got too far behind on her restitution and parole fees and she got revoked. I tried to get together some cash to get her out, but a family friend says they're sending her back to prison to serve out for bad checks.

I've got caught at damn near everything I've ever done, so has the members of my family. Being in jail is like what our family does, because there isn't a time when at least one of us ain't locked up. It always hurts because we're a close bunch and love each other, but our addictions and what they make us do always get us and people around us in trouble.

Jail is what feels normal, but going back this time will be hard. I just got out from doing a year in October and it was the worst year of my life, more than any jail term I ever served. While I was inside, my girlfriend's parole got revoked and she's serving out 4 years. Our baby is with my gf's parents and I know she's better off, but it still hurts like hell.

Last time in jail it hit me hard just how bad off our family is and we did it all to ourselves. My mom and dad met because they were released from jail at the same time and I was born while my mom was in prison. My sister has had both her kids while she was locked up.

When I turn myself in and get the time I think I will, I'll do probably 12 years if not more and my girl will be driving by the time I get out. Everything's weighing heavy right now and I need to deal with the pain and loss of it all before taking my consequences.

:(

I've been at CBC - Orient, Ohio, NTTCF - Grafton, Ohio - River City Correctional - Cincinnati, Ohio. I've been in the DOC since October/2008 till April/2009. I was released from River City due to Medical problems and so far on 5 years probation.
I've been in Youngstown County Jail, Morrow County Jail, Medina County Jail.
I have a 4th degree felony for DUI's.
By the grace of GOD, I'm currently home and recuperation from my surgery.

Believe in the Grace of GOD!

I know what I have to do, it's just a matter of getting around to do it. They've also charged me with evading detention, which will mean at least a year in county jail, which is bad where I am, though I guess jail ain't great anywhere. And they'll definitely hold my feet to the fire, since they charged me last year while I was in jail for theft, but had to let it go because they had no evidence -- which they seem to have now.

I got no defense for what I did, because I stole to put money in everyone's commissary accts. And my mom got too far behind on her restitution and parole fees and she got revoked. I tried to get together some cash to get her out, but a family friend says they're sending her back to prison to serve out for bad checks.

I've got caught at damn near everything I've ever done, so has the members of my family. Being in jail is like what our family does, because there isn't a time when at least one of us ain't locked up. It always hurts because we're a close bunch and love each other, but our addictions and what they make us do always get us and people around us in trouble.

Jail is what feels normal, but going back this time will be hard. I just got out from doing a year in October and it was the worst year of my life, more than any jail term I ever served. While I was inside, my girlfriend's parole got revoked and she's serving out 4 years. Our baby is with my gf's parents and I know she's better off, but it still hurts like hell.

Last time in jail it hit me hard just how bad off our family is and we did it all to ourselves. My mom and dad met because they were released from jail at the same time and I was born while my mom was in prison. My sister has had both her kids while she was locked up.

When I turn myself in and get the time I think I will, I'll do probably 12 years if not more and my girl will be driving by the time I get out. Everything's weighing heavy right now and I need to deal with the pain and loss of it all before taking my consequences.

:(
I just get this feeling that whatever you do is a tuff call. The sooner you start the first day, the sooner you do the last day. Do you have any kind of lawyer from any old case, Public Defender or anything that you could call. Maybe if you could talk to him/her about doing a voluntary turn in, might help a little. Just be careful the way you contact them as to not get set up. Never did trust lawyers much, you need to stay a step ahead of them. You decide what you have as a plan before you call, if you do it that way. The thing here is you sound like you know that you will get caught soon. Sort of like you have no place to turn. Talk to either the lawyer on a phone that can't be traced, or even direct call to local police as to a location you will go to turn yourself in. You could also call and say you are turning yourself in and not say where you are and just walk in to a precienct. The key is if you are going to get caught get credit for a voluntary turn in. It's not a lot but It has to help a little bit. Besides you don't need to run the risk of taking a bullet because you run getting caught off guard. Wish I had more to tell you, get back to me.
John/Runner

I called home and talked to our family lawyer, who has got us all shorter sentences over the years than we deserve. She already knew of the situation because of the warrants and had been waiting for me to call. She said the new DA was putting on a show for the voters and going after people like me and my family because we're easy targets and there's always something to use against us.

She's trying to work a deal for me to the regional jail for 2 to 10 years, work detail, fines and fees and post prison supervision, which means that after I get out, they can send me back to county for up to six months for no real reason. I'd also have to do weekends and holidays in jail and one 30 day term every year I'm on parole.

Problem is no one in my family has ever completed parole successfully. All parole has ever been to us is the time you're free before you go back. I'll probably take the deal but I told her I'd call her back...

I have a couple of questions that I could use answers to for those of you who have been in before. My husband is currently at Bradshaw and we are both new to this and I just spend most of my time out here waiting for him to get out. We still have a year left. So, if you feel like answering some questions for me.....i guess get back with me....i dont know how this site works really

Sorry,
I really can't speak about the Texas system. I'm not really familar with it. Although there was that one little bar brawl in Huston, I think I got something like 15 days on what they called the P-farm 32 years ago. They wouildn't do a fine, just a straight 15 days. I guess it was planting season or some sh_t. Maybe they were just pissed that I was from N.Y. Either way I left Texas five min. after I got my wheels out of the impound. That is my only Texas experience.

I have not been on this thread for some time! Trying to get set up to move from Virginia back home to San Francisco.

But I wanted to drop in today and say Welcome Aboard to all the newbies to the PTO Family and glad to see those that have been around for awhile!

Patti

My name is Jason. I was sent to Missouri state prison in 1979 when I was 18 and stayed there till 1987. I was sent to Moberly , then transfered to the Walls in Jeff. city, then they had just opened pacific and was sent there. I was then transfered to "{church farm). From there I went to tipton. The first year was a night mare that I wish to forget, but after that , well you learn and try to just do you r time

My name is Jason. I was sent to Missouri state prison in 1979 when I was 18 and stayed there till 1987. I was sent to Moberly , then transfered to the Walls in Jeff. city, then they had just opened pacific and was sent there. I was then transfered to "{church farm). From there I went to tipton. The first year was a night mare that I wish to forget, but after that , well you learn and try to just do you r time

Jason,
Good thing being out. Never could understand why so many of Bro's hang onto the quick money thing. It never equals out if you figure it out by the number years spent locked down. You need to look at it that way because that's reality. Sounds like 22 years without a pinch. Under the stats that they use to keep track of things, you are considered rehabilitated, so am I. If they ever start to understand how f--ked up this leaves the thinking process then maybe they will start to understand why people come out so f--ked up. Rather then give help and support to break free from the distorted thinking process, the mainstream population look at us with advoidance and fear. Only if they were enlightened.
Good Luck Bro,
Keep doing it.

Once and unfortunately, a possible future guest of the fine Commonwealth of Virginia.

My future depends solely on the results of my appeal, facing the possibility of residing in Hotel Virginia until 08.

However, I am looking at life with a positive attitude and plan on being home in California alot sooner than 08.

What can I do here - mostly listen, I am blessed that I don't have much experience to rely on. I would really like to keep it that way!

But I can listen and at times offer my shoulder for some one to lean on.

Patti (FriscoLady)I know I've told you this before. But, you ARE my hero. Trek on Patti your story will change peoples lives. It changed mine. I am a self- supporting college graduate in part because of your story. You made it!! That is what made me believe in myself after prison. When nobody would hire me because of my criminal background; I remembered your courage and perseverance............... I am doing great now!!! Thank you Patti!!!:thumbsup:

My name is Andres "Andy" Morin III. I was sentenced to an 18 month term in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for theft of over 10,000 dollars from the JC Penny's Company when I worked for them. I never saw the 'gladiator style fights' or rapes that were common at other units. However, violent fights were common at Bradshaw. What I remember scared me the most was the hunger, boredom, and monotony that accompanied me each and everyday of my incarceration. I was my own worst enemy. And, only I could pull myself out of this misery. I fell into a deep depression and nodody cared. Why should they? They were fighting their own demons. I had to realize that that loathesome, horrid, and hideous creature that I had come to fear was a very familiar one. That creature was me.

I had to change from the inside out before the very rage I'd carried around for so long consumed me. I still struggle with my emotions from time to time. But, I've learned to redirect my anger, and rage at the prison system into helping people who need it. If I can answer one question from a family member of someone who is incarcerated, that is what it is. One less person is 'in the dark'. One less person who needs an answer. Although, my reply may not always be what someone wants to hear, it is always to the best of my knowledge the truth. And, the best way to change 'the system' is with the truth.

This is the 1st time in my life I had access to the internet & b4 I found this site the only thing that's kept my interest was burning cds.I orginally looked on this site for 411 on acquiring a copy of my HVAC license (which I still havent found...I'm gonna go old school & just call,I guess).Well, I've done a total of 16 yrs in cali womens prisons in sizable chunks,never staying out 4 more than 2 months without going on the run.I'm sure you can imagine I have lots of firsthand knowledge & can answer lots of questions your members might have especially @ ca womens joints.I'd also like 2 know the latest on 3 strike reform and become involved in that.I look forward 2 exploring your website more thoroughly.

I did 41 months at FCI Tallahassee.
Life is alot harder with that behind me, but I'm surviving.
Quite an experience.

My name is Andres "Andy" Morin III. I was sentenced to an 18 month term in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for theft of over 10,000 dollars from the JC Penny's Company when I worked for them. I never saw the 'gladiator style fights' or rapes that were common at other units. However, violent fights were common at Bradshaw. What I remember scared me the most was the hunger, boredom, and monotony that accompanied me each and everyday of my incarceration. I was my own worst enemy. And, only I could pull myself out of this misery. I fell into a deep depression and nodody cared. Why should they? They were fighting their own demons. I had to realize that that loathesome, horrid, and hideous creature that I had come to fear was a very familiar one. That creature was me.

I had to change from the inside out before the very rage I'd carried around for so long consumed me. I still struggle with my emotions from time to time. But, I've learned to redirect my anger, and rage at the prison system into helping people who need it. If I can answer one question from a family member of someone who is incarcerated, that is what it is. One less person is 'in the dark'. One less person who needs an answer. Although, my reply may not always be what someone wants to hear, it is always to the best of my knowledge the truth. And, the best way to change 'the system' is with the truth.






I am the sister of a so who is waiting to be sentenced. I am in TN. I want to tell you how touching your post is!!!

It sounds like you replaced the rage you had with a passion! When people have a passion they have purpose in life. God bless you for making yourself available!

My family is in shock as my brother is. He has always been a good provider with a good reputation of paying his bills. At 30 years old he invested in a situation that did not pan out. He got in deep financial trouble. He had no support from his wife and ended up leaving her. He started drinking way too much and eventually got on drugs. This situation was a one time occurrence and not with a child! He is facing 8-15 but has not been sentenced yet. He has been in county for a year.

I know from past posts that he is facing a rough time due to his charge. Is there anything you can add?

Again, hang on to your passion! Broken

I know what I have to do, it's just a matter of getting around to do it. They've also charged me with evading detention, which will mean at least a year in county jail, which is bad where I am, though I guess jail ain't great anywhere. And they'll definitely hold my feet to the fire, since they charged me last year while I was in jail for theft, but had to let it go because they had no evidence -- which they seem to have now.

I got no defense for what I did, because I stole to put money in everyone's commissary accts. And my mom got too far behind on her restitution and parole fees and she got revoked. I tried to get together some cash to get her out, but a family friend says they're sending her back to prison to serve out for bad checks.

I've got caught at damn near everything I've ever done, so has the members of my family. Being in jail is like what our family does, because there isn't a time when at least one of us ain't locked up. It always hurts because we're a close bunch and love each other, but our addictions and what they make us do always get us and people around us in trouble.

Jail is what feels normal, but going back this time will be hard. I just got out from doing a year in October and it was the worst year of my life, more than any jail term I ever served. While I was inside, my girlfriend's parole got revoked and she's serving out 4 years. Our baby is with my gf's parents and I know she's better off, but it still hurts like hell.

Last time in jail it hit me hard just how bad off our family is and we did it all to ourselves. My mom and dad met because they were released from jail at the same time and I was born while my mom was in prison. My sister has had both her kids while she was locked up.

When I turn myself in and get the time I think I will, I'll do probably 12 years if not more and my girl will be driving by the time I get out. Everything's weighing heavy right now and I need to deal with the pain and loss of it all before taking my consequences.

:(





Dear D'sFella, I respect you a great deal for discussing your situation so openly. You stated that someone from your family is always in jail. I think you could be the first one to change that pattern in your life! I hear you saying that "being in prison is all you know" but, you can make a difference in the life of so many people just by sharing your story.

I am from a family that has never experienced what your's has, but, I have a brother going in for a so. We didn't know the difference in a misdeamenor and a felony! He messed up and will now serve 8-15 years. (not involving a child). We are in total shock and he is too! It is so complicated but he has changed his life in prison. He turned his life over to God.

He is witnessing to other inmates and trying to study the Bible himself.

Good luck to you and I will be praying for you and your family. Broken 2 4 u.

This is the 1st time in my life I had access to the internet & b4 I found this site the only thing that's kept my interest was burning cds.I orginally looked on this site for 411 on acquiring a copy of my HVAC license (which I still havent found...I'm gonna go old school & just call,I guess).Well, I've done a total of 16 yrs in cali womens prisons in sizable chunks,never staying out 4 more than 2 months without going on the run.I'm sure you can imagine I have lots of firsthand knowledge & can answer lots of questions your members might have especially @ ca womens joints.I'd also like 2 know the latest on 3 strike reform and become involved in that.I look forward 2 exploring your website more thoroughly.

This is John/Runner. Where are you now? In or out. It's time to hang them up Girl. Life's too short to give any more time away. I let the fight go after I got out last time. At that point I had just gave them 8 years out of 8. At that point I was 31 and had spent about 11 years locked up total. I figured that was enough. I never really stopped fighting, I just fight in a different way today. I fight for a change in the way the system works. I fight for the right's of newly released inmates to get a chance at life without being overwhelmed by restrictions. I fight for the right to get a chance. I fight for help, rather then hindrance. First hand knowledge is of no use unless you use it to enlighten the very system who were responsible for incarceration. Hope to hear from you. Your ex-convict counselor, Little John the Runner.

Keep god with you nomatter what and its garunteed to come trough every time.

You ought to be very proud of yourself and keep up the good work ! God will continue to bring you blessings when you stay believing in him. My fiancee did a huge turn around from quote on quote being the man to a great man and soon to be hubsand so i know it can be done and our prayers are with you on your new journey in life.

Man you can only assume what you will get, but dont claim what you dont want and deal with what you get and prayer changes everything its all gonna start with a change of mind and the train of thought you have the power to change the family cuz you had the gift to see the trend in what your family does so knowing that will now hold you accountable to chan ge it and you can always be the best father youcan be from wherever you are and support your babysmomma as much as possible to. Keep faith keep faith

Convicted April 1996 Trafficking in Cannabis (first and only felony) caught a 25 year sentence, did the mandatory minimum of three and out on endless parole. Had to go back for refresher 90 day course in 2003 so I now have my PhD. Am currently in the process of getting a pardon.

Julia Tutwiler Prison for Women, Wetumpka, Alabama.

I was at the LSCI Butner (NC) from 9/06 to 6/07 on a federal CP charge. I'm now doing 5 years SR and am a registered SO. Bummer! But I was guilty as charged and did a lot to rehab myself prior to sentencing (my offense was in 12/02 so I had lots of time to prove my good-faith intentions). I'm totally clean today and keep a low profile.

I know I've told you this before. But, you ARE my hero. Trek on Patti your story will change peoples lives. It changed mine. I am a self- supporting college graduate in part because of your story. You made it!! That is what made me believe in myself after prison. When nobody would hire me because of my criminal background; I remembered your courage and perseverance............... I am doing great now!!! Thank you Patti!!!:thumbsup:

Thank you Andy. I am so happy to hear that you are doing great now.

I want you to know that it is people like you that have given me the courage and strength to carry on.

A lot has happened since I made that post, and life has continued with it's ups and downs as it will be for you. But we are both survivors - no not just survivors - we are fighters!

The appeal did not go as was hoped, however God leads us down the paths he feels we need to follow not the ones we want to follow.

Now my journey home to San Francisco is done, I am home, where my heart has always been. I have a good job as an Aircraft Systems Analyst and we have a wonderful apartment less than twenty yards from San Francisco Bay. My first day at work is this coming Monday.

We just arrived home last Monday.

More importantly, I am at peace with life now, I am at peace with my past, and I look to my future with confidence.

It was not all good, and I paid a heavy price, but like so many others before me, and so many after me, success can be had if one works hard, keeps the faith in God and one's self.

Keep tough my friend, keep your head high and know that you are an inspiration to me and many other as well.

Patti

I've served over 8 years in the wonderful NCCIW and Troy N.C. I went in in 1998 and was released in 2007.

Served 10 years of my like in Oklahoma prisons form OSP waiting in transit for months at a time to Oklahoma State Reformatory fighting all the time to Lawton Correctional Facility(private) fucking up all the time and to Enid Community Correctional Center where it was pretty much like being at home all the time.

I spent 47 days in Bradford County Jail in PA on a couple misdemeanors, sentenced 47 days - 1 year (time served) plus one year probation

I was a guest at the FPC in Texarkana, TX for 22 months.

Welcome aboard ladies & gentlemen!

After over a year, I have finally come to the point where I can openly talk about my experience in the Federal prison system. I am now 26 years old, and spend 20 months of my life in a federal prison for taking the blame for things I didnt do. (Fraud). I am a stand up guy, but prison brought out my weakness. There's nothing worse than going months without seeing mom and dad, and then getting walked into the visiting room in handcuffs after a strip search, to find your dad, who was the strongest man in your life, crying. This experience not only tore me, but my family to pieces.

When I was in Terre Haute, I can't begin to explain how out of touch with reality these people were. They were selfish, and control freaks. They ran in groups, because they were too scared to walk alone. All through my sentence, I 'rode solo'. I stood alone, I walked alone, and faught alone. I was half respected for it, until about 8 months before the door I had enough. At this point, I chose to go into Solitary confinement (The hole) at my own free will. I was tired of the bullying, stress, and drama within the fence. I wrote poems to my family, drew alot of portraits, and wrote 5-10 letters every day. It was horrible, but I was at peace and for once in those 20 months felt secure being locked in a room. Alot of those guys have 25 years, and theyre 45 years old. Do they have anything to lose? Probably not! I do, I was 25, I self Surrendered to a Medium security prison, my family had a little money, and people saw it. They tried to run game on me, but it never happened.

Alot of people think that there's guys getting raped, etc, in prison. This may be so, but I never once saw it. I was in 2 mediums, pekin and terre haute in those 20 months, and I never once saw or heard of anyone being raped. Ive heard alot of that happening at the USP, and Max's, but now thw camps, lows, or mediums.

If you have ANY questions about Terre Haute or Pekin FCI's, ask! I was there, I know the reality of them and will answer any questions. The health care is horrible, and something needs to be done to ensure a healthy environment, even if 'we' are criminals. But it's never going to happen, and they don't help you. They encourage fights, frown on weakness, and are growing animals and monsters in there only to unleash them into the real world one day. Is this right?

Scott
26 Yrs Old
Wisconsin

I've never been to prison (except to visit!) but I can so relate to losing that feeling of missing people. I kept staring at that sentence. ) : I've moved around SO much since I was a little kid. It's sad, but it's a coping skill. It's all good. I understand. I hear you. Cyber hugs, Kimshei

I have done a 2 stints in county, longest was 3 months. Screwed up again and am now awaiting a prison sentence. I guess the good part is that I got to remain free during the appeal until sentencing.

released 60 days ago after 20 years in the florida penal system. i've done everything from 2 1/2 years in solitary confinement and just did 60 days on work release, just left all my friends behind, are mostly doing life sentences

After over a year, I have finally come to the point where I can openly talk about my experience in the Federal prison system. I am now 26 years old, and spend 20 months of my life in a federal prison for taking the blame for things I didnt do. (Fraud). I am a stand up guy, but prison brought out my weakness. There's nothing worse than going months without seeing mom and dad, and then getting walked into the visiting room in handcuffs after a strip search, to find your dad, who was the strongest man in your life, crying. This experience not only tore me, but my family to pieces.

When I was in Terre Haute, I can't begin to explain how out of touch with reality these people were. They were selfish, and control freaks. They ran in groups, because they were too scared to walk alone. All through my sentence, I 'rode solo'. I stood alone, I walked alone, and faught alone. I was half respected for it, until about 8 months before the door I had enough. At this point, I chose to go into Solitary confinement (The hole) at my own free will. I was tired of the bullying, stress, and drama within the fence. I wrote poems to my family, drew alot of portraits, and wrote 5-10 letters every day. It was horrible, but I was at peace and for once in those 20 months felt secure being locked in a room. Alot of those guys have 25 years, and theyre 45 years old. Do they have anything to lose? Probably not! I do, I was 25, I self Surrendered to a Medium security prison, my family had a little money, and people saw it. They tried to run game on me, but it never happened.

Alot of people think that there's guys getting raped, etc, in prison. This may be so, but I never once saw it. I was in 2 mediums, pekin and terre haute in those 20 months, and I never once saw or heard of anyone being raped. Ive heard alot of that happening at the USP, and Max's, but now thw camps, lows, or mediums.

If you have ANY questions about Terre Haute or Pekin FCI's, ask! I was there, I know the reality of them and will answer any questions. The health care is horrible, and something needs to be done to ensure a healthy environment, even if 'we' are criminals. But it's never going to happen, and they don't help you. They encourage fights, frown on weakness, and are growing animals and monsters in there only to unleash them into the real world one day. Is this right?

Scott
26 Yrs Old
Wisconsin


You're a check-in

The only thing I can think of that's worse than 20 years in is the initial time out. You must be very confused and frightened. I did only 1.5 years and was shell and culture shocked when I got out. Congratulations on your courage and all the luck in the world facing your unique challange.

Please private message me is there is ANYTHING at all that I can help you with.

PS. How's the food?

Hi,
i have been out a little over a year now. I did my time in texas. Half was done at Hutchins a TDC ran unit. The other half at Bradshaw a unit that is run by a private corporation Called CCA. Talk about night and day difference.

Seagoville Camp for a 33 month sentence. Did a total of 26 and then did about 4 months in the Hutchinson Half Way House. Please PLEASE feel free to PM me any questions. I was terrified going in and information greatly assisted me.

Sounds like it took a tremendous amount of self control to manage thru all that. I would think you have a heck of a lot to say about corporate prisons and the US correctional system in general.

I will withold my name because I have a much different life these days. I do not like disruption and I like to keep my past behind me.
I was convicted by General Courts Martial (GCM) of article 134 of the UCMJ. Article 134 is defined as "the accused’s conduct was to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces or was of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces". Which is somewhat of a "catch all" since I was acquitted of the greater charge and convicted of it's lesser included offense of 134. I plead not guilty to all charges and specifications.
I was sentenced by GCM Panel to Dishonorable Discharge and confinement for 3 years. I served 2.5 years by reducing the sentence through work programs, etc. I served nearly 1 year of this time at Camp Lejume and the remainder at Ft. Knox RCF. I waived my right to parole due to my position against the charges. I sought clemency but was not granted.
The US Army Court of Criminal Appeals (ACCA) affirmed my case. At the US Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces (CAAF), my conviction was reversed and sent back for retrial on it's appellate merit. Through normal progression, the retrial transcripts were sent back through the appellate process. The ACCA reaffirmed my original conviction. The Supreme Justice who recommended retrial retired and shortly thereafter the CAAF followed-suit with the ACCA.
So, in the words of the Grateful Dead, "What a long strange trip it's been". There is my introduction. Please feel free to ask questions.

Been locked up in California a few juvenile camps and CYA also county jails San Diego and Riverside done time through out the wonderful cdc North Kern, Chuckawalla, Donovan, CRC, Tehachapi

Okay, Ive never posted on this site, though Ive read the forums for a couple of years...but now i cant hold off anymore..I weas in TDCJ from 1987-1995, at hilltop..hughes...briscoe...darrington...clements units...Ive seen alot happen back then, and I must say, it was all my fault. I will also say that a common denomenator among inmates is the attitude that they are VICTIMS of the system, instead of perpetrators...this denial, the inability to see the truth about ones self, is what keeps these guys in ad seg...and keeps em coming back to prison. Who is responsible for for the hardships i endured during my years in prison?? I am. I am. All these wives seem to be under the impression that their guys are just angels, and that the circumstances they are in are brought about by the EVIL state..ha ha ha ha...suckers..your being conned also. why dont you talk to your man about responsibility, his crimes. ask questions...why are you in seg?? Why are you in prison?? But dont believe all the answers. You will have to see the truth about your loved one, or you will only be heart broken when they return to prison...then, once again, you will be writing to these forums, complaining about the unfairness of the guards, the parole system, the wardens...everything but the real issue, which is your "great guy's" inability to stay off of drugs, follow the law, or control his baby temper...wake up people. Ive been free for 14 years now...I answer to nobody anymore, except my family. why am i still free? Because I took responsibility for myself for once, and stopped acting like a victim. Who are the real victims??? Maybe the real victims are the ones we robbed, killed, and hurt on our way to prison. Oh yea, everybody in there is innocent, I forgot...

I heartily agree that I am responsible for my crime. I planned it, I did it. But I don't think that the fed acted in the most admirable manner either. While I was held without bond (my fault again), in an MCC, I saw one after another of the panel lawyers sell out their clients to the prosecution. My attorney strongly recommended that I sign a Booker waiver "to expedite the case".

And most of the guards I met had the attitude that they were there to inflict the punishment. IMPRISONMENT is the punishment, and it is not up to the guards to think up new ways to terrorize inmates. Most of the people I was locked up with were used to incarceration and it was obvious that they had learned abusive behavior from guards. A little decency and normal courtesy could have been a better role model for acceptable behavior. When you have "tough guys" in charge of you, you don't learn to cower, you learn to be tough.

I'm certainly not saying that all inmates deserve to be treated with kid gloves. None of them do. But most of the women I was locked up with were decent people, mothers, doctors, accountants and even a nun! The verbal abuse I witnessed from the guards was shameful.

Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. I soon realized that the personality type that would want to be in jail everyday, five days a week is either a fool, or has big ego problems.

"Wildswan" did time in MCI Framingham from 1984 to 1985 and from 1992 to 1993. Wrote a book about the experience after having escaped and then been returned to MCI Framingham via Orlando Florida. I would like to send copies of this book to the women of MCI Framingham and to any who might like to read it. Cheers :)


If you have been incarcerated any time in the past, please sign in here. If you would like, please also tell us when and where and anything else you feel is relevant.

Please ONLY use this thread to "sign in" and not for general conversation. My goal for this thread is to let PTO members know who we are in the event they have questions for us, and for future ex-cons/offenders/prisoners to see there are others of us here.

Thanks,
David (Fed-X)

[You are welcome to be as detailed as you want.. Just your name & where you did time, or as long winded as you like]

and so would my friend in Phili MCC. Please private message me for addresses.

alright im in my 30's and have been to chino,pleasent valley,chuckawalla,tehatchappi,west valley detention center,sanbernardino mens central jail and twin towers in losangeles. I am origanly from sanbernardino calif and started doin time in my early 20's all due to meth. My charges were grand theft auto,assult w/deadly weapon hit n run parole violation and so forth you get the pic a general fu## up. I have been off meth now for over a year and gave cdc back their v-22019 number with pleasure. I have maintained my family and am doing good my homeboy has found himself locked up yhough and when i was down nobody was there for me but i find myself wanting to be there for my homie cause i know how it is trying to get by on the crap the state feeds you.

oh my God, how did you manage that one? I'm being serious. please tell me what happened.

[
I just returned from a sentence at Danbury Women's Camp in CT. I would be happy to help anyone who has questions or is about to go there. I self surrended in January 2009 and was released to home confinement recently. Feel free to ask anything about the camp.....I will help as much as I can. If you are about to surrender there, YOU will be ok. I was scared as anyone as it was my first offense and god willing my last..... it is managable ....... you will be fine.

Jayson

quote=David;161159]If you have been incarcerated any time in the past, please sign in here. If you would like, please also tell us when and where and anything else you feel is relevant.

Please ONLY use this thread to "sign in" and not for general conversation. My goal for this thread is to let PTO members know who we are in the event they have questions for us, and for future ex-cons/offenders/prisoners to see there are others of us here.

Thanks,
David (Fed-X)

[You are welcome to be as detailed as you want.. Just your name & where you did time, or as long winded as you like][/quote]

I did 13 months as a juvie (in a full lockdown home/facility). I also did another 1yr 1month as an adult in okahoma's tri-level female yard (Mabel Basset Correctional Center) and spent more than one occassion in Tulsa Couny Jail (D.L. Moss). If anyone has any questions, I will be glad to answer.

Christi

I served 8yrs on a 20yr non-agg sentence 1994-2002. Received my education at the Estelle Unit. Now working as an IT professional here in the Philippines.

I was in little Rhody from 93-2005. The A.C.I. I spent 3 yrs awaiting trial, where I first learned about the law and took my own case into my hands. Then 5 years in Max, where I represented on the football field and did my best to unite all peoples regardless of race or creed. Then 2.5 in Medium 1, which felt like I'd been accepted to college considering the differences in shitholes- they must have forgotten I was blackballed, and I got a job again in the law library. Then 2 years in Minimum, where I finally figured out why guys RETURN to prison after teh short bids- so I wrote a book about how to do time. Its free to prisoners through some programs (or go to my 1000 lbs guerilla website).
Then I did a year on the Bracelet.
Since then I've been part of the coalition that passed voting rights in RI, and personally wrote the legislation on probation reform. Been to conferences and retreats, directed my plays, and stayed superactive on all this stuff. I even took a paycut to take this organizer gig.:angry:
Wanna know the deal here? Come to our prison committee meetings at Direct Action for Rights and Equality.:D

I did my bit at Bunker Hill, Indiana. Had three bits with two consective and one concurrent. With the four years of living in a margined society behind me I face new challengs. But with my attitude of " can't keep me down " I will face these challenges and over come. Been out for a year now and have started my third semester at local university. Employment has been a tough and the resources available seem to be more for social statements than for actual help. So instead of reverting I will stand my ground, move forward, and know in my heart that I am not the same and have moved on to be a better person for myself.

I was recently released from FMC Carswsell, WHY they call it a medical center I'll never know! I was there for 3 years and am so glad to be home and able to see a Doctor that actually knows what they are doing and care. Any questions, please feel free to ask.

I recently released from coffee creek correctional facility in oregon after serving 90 months....then was taken to Immigration and deported because I had a green card. I really feel for my friends back at the creek...especially those doing life....I have freedom they don't. Walking out those doors was a moment I'd dreamed of but it broke my heart to leave those women locked behind those fences :(