Life on Parole (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

This 2017 documentary looks at Connecticut's effort to rethink how parole works in order to reduce the state’s prison population.
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FRONTLINE and The New York Times offer a firsthand look at why some people stay out of jail, why some go back, and how one state is trying to break the cycle of recidivism. With unique access inside Connecticut’s corrections system, as well as camera-phone footage filmed by the parolees themselves, the film follows four former prisoners as they navigate the challenges of more than a year on parole - from finding work, to staying sober, to parenting - and doing it all while under intense supervision from the state.
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Funding for FRONTLINE is provided through the support of PBS viewers and by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Major funding for FRONTLINE is provided by the Ford Foundation. Additional funding is provided by the Abrams Foundation; the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation; Park Foundation; and the FRONTLINE Journalism Fund with major support from Jon and Jo Ann Hagler on behalf of the Jon L. Hagler Foundation, and additional support from Koo and Patricia Yuen.

[@quinn9025]

If these documentaries weren’t created I probably wouldn’t know about all of these problems in detail. Thank you.

[@billgatesleavingyamomshous8177]

I definitely wouldn’t know a lot about black tar heroin either

[@ZMAN_420]

I agree the U.S. has the most capita incarcerated. It's a shame!

[@gavinb907]

@@ZMAN_420 We have the most criminals, we are the biggest criminals and dont let people get away with crimes

[@ZMAN_420]

@@gavinb907 WE LET RICH INDIVIDUALS AND RICH COMPANYS GET AWAY WITH BREAKING ALOT OF LAWS. MONEY MATTERS IN COURT! IF YOUR RICH YOU CAN HAVE AN ADVANTAGE. BECAUSE YOU HAVE ALOT OF MONEY AND IN SOME CASES FAME. THEREFORE YOU CAN SPEND ALOT OF MONEY ON A DEFENSE ATTORNEY OR ATTORNEYS. THEN THERE IS PEOPLE IN JAIL OR PRISON, SOME FOR PROFIT PRISONS. OVER A NON VIOLENT SMALL AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA OR DRUGS? THATS EXTREMELY WRONG!!! MONEY SHOULD BE OUT IOF THE EQUATION!

[@theanimaster]

@@ZMAN_420 that’s a dream. Regular folks aren’t even free - depends how you look at it. We still live in a feudalist society where there are castes and nobility. We just dress it up better so people can’t tell the difference. Make a person happy enough, they just won’t know how much they’re being screwed.

[@sabrina.natalie]

You can tell that Katherine Montoya - the Latina parole officer - genuinely cares about her parolees, and you can tell that she truly wants them to succeed, be sober and healthy, and happy.

[@michaelmunoz2754]

See the difference with that Caucasian one?

[@hitzoneproductions7858]

@Sabrina Valenzuela I care enough about you to let you know that you should be a model if you are not one already.

[@sabrina.natalie]

@@hitzoneproductions7858 - That’s a sweet compliment. Thank you so much!

[@hitzoneproductions7858]

@@sabrina.natalie You're most welcome. Can you thank me by giving me the opportunity to get to know you?

[@musicalsofa4813]

@@hitzoneproductions7858 simp

[@gaijinguineapig]

I root for those that make an effort, not excuses. Shoutout to Jessica for doing the hard-work and turning her life around!

[@jonnieinbangkok]

Not committing crimes is hard work...then I've been working my ass off for 60 years!

[@joecarey4356]

Especially when you can't get a job.

[@veronicajohnson9995]

@@jonnieinbangkoki think going from a life of committing crimes & have that + other bad habits be a normal part of your life, then going to prison for 10 years unlearning those habits in a controlled setting & then being labeled a felon so that you have a tough road to acclimating back to the outside world and then not resorting back to your old habits to survive are the parts that are hard work. sorry for the run-on sentence, just my rambling thoughts haha

[@LittleHatori]

Exactly!!! The way that man used and manipulated his daughter into thinking he really loved her when all he had todo was go to work and go to the halfway house and chill. I was so DISGUSTED.

[@busturwindows95]

The little girl telling her mom that that’s daddy. I got so emotional, because two years ago my dad passed away suddenly. I hope you love you dad forever and ever.

[@joeswanson8038]

🙏🏼❤️

[@chinainformation]

This narrator... One of the reasons why i watch these videos.

[@MZ_928]

Yes, I like his inflection.

[@TwinJalanugraha]

Me too

[@sabrina.natalie]

Samesies. The narrator can make or break a documentary, and if the narration is bad, it can make a program impossible to watch.

[@sidneysaint5806]

It's Will Lyman. Dude is famous for his voice.

[@CeCe-fs9ed]

Great voice

[@nolola.9173]

There was a BLATANT difference between the 2 female correctional officers. One was genuinely helpful and wanting to improve lives, the other was there to just collect the check, hand out neck swings and attitude. Katherine is an Earth Angel! Praying for everyone out there fighting to do right, you can do it!

[@LuisRodriguez-zi1tf]

well one of them had a parolee who was willing to actually change. the other had an idiot.

[@LuisRodriguez-zi1tf]

@@iquitnow lol a probation officer isnt rich wtf.

[@LuisRodriguez-zi1tf]

@@iquitnow you got a time stamp on that? And no. It was his 4th time on parole. If it was his first then maybe you can argue she's a control freak but it was his FOURTH! he's the problem not her. Second, he agreed to the rules of parole. He knew the rules and chose to break them and not only break them but take pic of himself doing so. Her coming from money is irrelevant. Third, you dont kno what past experiences she's had with parolees tht might have made her cynical. Shes dealing with people who are not honest.

[@LuisRodriguez-zi1tf]

A lot could happen in under a year. Regardless of her background, he's still the one who has the power to succeed or fail and he chose to fail. He could either get with the program or serve out his sentence. You cant agree to rules and break them and cry its not fair when caught. It might not be easy but im sure it beats being locked up. Montoya had a woman who had goals and was willing to work with Montoya not against her. Thats why she succeeded. She chose to succeed.

[@rhaastaa]

@@LuisRodriguez-zi1tf Truth indeed. Had they switched officers they still would have failed.

[@billdavis6978]

As a recovering drug addict who is doing well myself, it brought tears to my eyes seeing people succeed.

[@JasonFlorida]

Great job, hope you keep doing great!

[@alexmurphy5289]

Montoya and the bald officer are genuinely making a difference. To not throw the one guy back in jail when he walks up with his victim to his parole meeting…that took understanding and patience

[@MjoePta]

sooooo...your girlfriend puts you in jail...you get released..she convinces you to bring her to a meet and greet with your parole officer..gets you thrown in a halfway house..get released..hook back up with her... get in a fight..calls the cops on you again..back to jail..I'm not a gambling man..but odds are..she's bad luck for you guy

[@tundrawomansays5067]

This situation is not uncommon. I dunno anything about “luck” but some people just have really defective Pecker Pickers. If it wasn’t this girl it’d be another just like her, unfortunately. This kinda thing may well have it’s genesis in the Wayback Machine.

[@MjoePta]

@@tundrawomansays5067 what i don get is if the girl realy loves him why doesnt she just let him go and let him sort his self out. clearly the relationship was toxic....i mean how can the girl call cops on him twice..

[@jacqueline3782]

Uh, yeah wtf

[@tatianar7682]

If she really cared about him she would stay away. He should have been sent to rehab for 6months to a year. Why even give him the chance to mess up?

[@yettiluch1]

Yea, he needs to separate himself from her. She is a nice looking woman and I'm sure the kitty is fire, but don't sit in a cell for it.

[@sabrina.natalie]

This was originally aired in 2017. (Update on Jessica Proctor.) She continues to work full-time as a home healthcare aid and is in the process of petitioning the court for full custody of her son, Donte. She was scheduled to be on parole until November 2020, so I’m assuming she officially ended her parole a few months ago. Blessings to her and her family. I hope she’s doing well.

[@suzystone244]

Thank you for the update.

[@nancypiccirillo405]

I had the intuition jessica was going to make it. She didn't need parole. Although she had a violent crime, I felt she's not a repeat offender. Thank you for the update.

[@nancypiccirillo405]

Rob sullivan.. bet if you did an update on him, it wouldn't be successful. Hope I'm wrong, but he's had 10 years to strengthen up for his child. Wrong. He needs to strengthen up for himself, the rest will follow. He's in jail saying he's trying to make it up to her.... How? For spending year after year for ten years behind bars? Got to do it for yourself guy.. the rest will follow. Eventually she will get older and resent you, she's young right now, hope she doesn't act out in her teens, as I've seen that scenario far to many times. It will serve to give you an excuse to keep using and messing up, not that you need one. I say work on yourself so you can be there in person for her, she's going to need you in those teen years, they are brutal guy. I wish you only the best.

[@nancypiccirillo405]

Vaughn, doesn't matter what you grew up seeing, what matters is what life you choose for yourself. You know slot because you've seen it all. Make positive decisions for yourself, don't hang with the same crown, think about improving your education, it will help you in the future and occupy your time. Your parole is saying you have to keep a job. Failure right there. With a felony and no education you will be a repeat offender or I dishwasher. GO TO SCHOOL Get that education your going to need it. It may save your life. Best wishes.

[@jajanesaddictions]

I hope Anger Management was a mandatory part of her parole. She clearly has a lot of anger. She said "I didn't kill anyone", but she tried to. She violently slashed the face of another human being and 10 years later she is still justifying her behavior. I wouldn't want her caring for any of my loved ones, or me for that matter.

[@aimeereal5122]

What a difference between the two female correctional officers, one good, one with a bad attitude. Kudos to Jessica!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@cornell833]

Not true at all 😞

[@CaptainRockoBD]

@@cornell833very true

[@reginareaves1202]

I was crying seeing Jessica success. She worked really hard and she made really good grades. I hope she's doing well.

[@margaretpeabody243]

I felt so sorry for the little girl holding back tears when her dad took her to get birthday gifts knowing he'd be gone for Christmas.

[@MrKnoxguy101]

I had such high hopes for her daddy too, especially after seeing the first two and how they screwed up their parole. I think that sweet little girl deserved a lot more effort on the part of someone she obviously loves more than anything.

[@whalefuhk]

@@MrKnoxguy101 I agree. But I don’t think her dads a bad guy. He loves her to pieces but sometimes love just isn’t enough. It broke my heart to see his frustration with the halfway house. I kept thinking - please just deal with the BS for a few months and go home to your baby girl. Broke my heart to see him become a fugitive

[@yogaflirt7]

Why would Raylees mom think that everything will be so normal after her ex is let out of prison? You need to make a whole new life and establish MAJOR BOUNDARIES. GET REAL WOMAN.

[@TockaMea]

If those tears don't make you forget who you think you are - man, you're in some deep challenges

[@aliinwonderland656]

Mom needs to wisen up. The only thing this relationship is doing is teaching the daughter to love from trauma and fear. She is learning that it’s ok for a man to have no empathy for you and hurt you and you’re supposed to just love him any way. I hope the girl gets counseling so she has a fair chance at life later.

[@fernemcallister6774]

That Lisa’s attitude is something else. She likes to show her power. Just a tad antagonistic.

[@joyaustin6581]

She’s trying to punish more than help

[@torreyharrison8710]

She is hate black people

[@real_lynnblades]

Those PO's are seriously part of the problem...not solution. But where do these people get off with face tattoos and "brang?" They need a LOT of help.

[@jamedlock83]

i agree. . I hate her. . .

[@fardowsaaa9266]

SHE IS JUST MAKING ME SO MAD LIKE HE IS HUMAN AND SHE ISNT TREATING HIM SOO SHE SHOULDNT HAVE THIS JOB JUST LIKE SHE HAS NO CHIN

[@MondoBeno]

We had a substitute teacher who was a former parole officer. I asked him if the parolees cooperated, and he said most of them did. Especially the older ones, because they'd realized that their luck had run out and didn't want to go back to prison anymore. But if they have a drug problem, the parole doesn't work.

[@bigdiggle5036]

I’ve been on parole since 2010 and still have 3 more years to go…the simple fact is if you’re honest with your PO and not doing stuff to get in trouble you’re not going to get in trouble. Respect yourself and others and parole will be easy.

[@MH-en9qc]

Thank you and keep it up!!

[@bigtimetimmyjim6486]

Your attitude is inspiring and is one that others can aspire to learn from, great job!

[@Findpepperbridge]

My ex was on parole for two years. He got into trouble for not called the parole officer “officer -“ he just said her first name.

[@tigern_i_f_rimeri6069]

one being honest🎉🎉 love it...not playing victim

[@MrBobbo18]

Oh but that doesn’t fit the poor poor me victim mentality

[@orawancarlile6192]

Officer Montoya is very commendable. She should train all those parole officers. Congrats to Jessica!

[@julianderosa7563]

She's being not commendable on purpose to test viewers. She's the worst.

[@KandiKlover]

@@julianderosa7563 you make zero sense. You should learn how to speak.

[@scottandrews947]

I thought the white guy PO was reasonable. He just wasn't as nicey nicey as Montoya.

[@oogaboogamaxine3689]

@@julianderosa7563 lol imagine thinking she cared what you thought some random nobody

[@addie_is_me]

@@julianderosa7563 Do you know her? I thought she was genuine.

[@starladear234]

The way that Dad pushed his crying daughter's arms off of his waist reminds me so much of my dad. My dad was the same type of dude, in and out of my life due to heroin. The only time he would ever show me any type of affection was when he was high or wanted people to think that he had his life together. I remember going over to his house one weekend and he had moved in his girlfriend and her daughter. Her daughter had taken over my room that he had made for me. I had to sleep on the couch. I remember being so angry at 10 years old and sobbing. I threw my arms around him And he laughed like this piece of crap and said "why are you crying tough guy?" Scoffing at me like it was some kind of a joke. My dad passed away in May 2019 due to liver cancer caused by hepatitis C due to his heroin usage. I'm now 41 years old with children of my own. I can still remember to this day that moment, what I was wearing, what he was wearing, what the weather was like, where I was at. This memory will be burned into this little girl's mind for life. I absolutely hate and loathe deadbeat dads with everything in me.

[@glenndrexler1677]

CATHARINE IS A DOWNER 4 HER MAN ALREADY BROKE PAROL ON 1'ST DAY

[@glenndrexler1677]

KATHERINE MONTOYA NOW THAT'S A CLASS A" P.O,NEED MORE LIKE HER...

[@alistairhazell9877]

I am terribly sorry you had to experience such, as I too NEVER had my dad in my life or truly knew who he was until I met him at age 26, by then there was no connection, relation nothing. Nonetheless I don't hate him, no longer holds him accountable for anything. . I'm not sure if I forgive him or maybe I just don't care, or that it doesn't matter .. . .but sometimes ”WE” people like me and you just don't know or wouldn't understand THEIR circumstances unless we're actually placed in and have to walk in their shoes.

[@bitchyeyebrows]

Starla... you deserved better. I'm sorry.

[@AlphaMom55]

Oh, Starla. I'm so, so sorry you were hurt so deeply. I was hidden from my father as a child and had a difficult relationship with my stepdad. Thankfully, I found my daddy in my early 40s. However, my daddy issues have affected me all my life and I had to learn to look to the Lord for the love of a Father that I so desperately needed. I will pray for God to heal your heart and draw you close to Himself. Bendiciones. 💙🙏

[@jcneverquits]

"He wasn't there for my 10th, but my 11th is still important." Wow! That's about as forgiving as it gets! Should be the fathers alarm clock every morning!

[@N8turenut]

Jessica seems like a good person. I hope her life turns out great. God bless them all.

[@Gurl-5150]

The guy with the tear drops....his poor sweet little girl deserves SO MUCH MORE. When I heard him say that sometimes it's cheaper to buy a beer for 2$ and just forget his problems...I knew one thing. He's not ready. I wish he was but that is defeat before you've even started.

[@howtorawk]

He’s a clown

[@SquirrelDirt]

Yes sad when they both know he's going back to jail he's buying her shoes and she starts crying he says 7to her what's wrong why you crying like he doesn't know why she's crying 😭 Sad I been on probation when I was younger and it is tuff if your not ready.

[@jillolds4162]

And people that dictate other's emotions are lousy people. Telling his daughter not to cry is BS...I hope his daughter finds a good man who his NOTHING like her father

[@terrondt]

Him and the other dude who just strolled in with his girlfriend who he was not supposed to be with and think its a ok. He had no sense enough to go in to see his parole officer himself. Your right these guys are not ready or gonna change

[@dormiebasne3578]

It's very troubling what he's modeling for his child in terms of what is normal to expect from a man in her life, and really what standard she herself should personally hold to.

[@Blys6]

Congratulations to Jessica on you accomplishments and your relationship with your son. I cried happy tears for her.

[@raineyj560]

💯

[@thedude3620]

@@raineyj560 HUNNED!!

[@DDR88767]

She will be a nurse within 5 years. Mark my words

[@DDR88767]

@ALA-FREAKING-BAMA! Really? That's sad. She was only 18 at the time. Maybe she will be the exception

[@jerraddennis2225]

i’ve been in and out of jail and prison for most of my adult life. Which hasn’t been extremely long, but still.. I had the same attitude for awhile UNTIL i realized it’s not about being an “adult” and i’m free i should be able to do what i want.. you committed a crime and it’s about seeing if you can resist the urge to do stupid small things and follow simple rules so when you’re REALLY on your own with no oversight you can exercise judgement to stay drug free and crime free and live a good life. There’s ALWAYS someone above you, there’s always rules.. We all want to be free from that, but it’s not realistic. Once i realized that i never went back. It’s been almost 7 years and i’ve been in rehab for 4 years, at my job for almost 3, have my own home. Me and my fiancé both have brand new cars, a 5 year old daughter and we are taking our 2nd vacation this year in a week to Gatlinburg. It’s extremely hard. Takes a lot of pride swallowing but it’s possible. And now i’m FREE.

[@thechronicplanner2284]

☝️☝️this 💯 ☝️☝️ these guys, they are not men, have not realized they need to grow up, stop behaving like victims, and own the consequences of their actions. If you don't want to be a functioning part of society, then go live on the outskirts of it. We all live by rules.

[@traceyklotz]

Proud of you!

[@JJJJ-gl2uf]

Good work. Wish you all the best ~~

[@Findpepperbridge]

What job were you able to get with a record?

[@jerraddennis2225]

@@Findpepperbridge i had to wait 7 years after my conviction and got a lawyer and filed to seal my record. only place that can see it is if i file for a federal or state job.

[@waveali5620]

Officer Montoya and the Bald officer are making wonderful progress for their community. It's a thankless job but it's refreshing to see POs who actually care. It's very difficult for folks coming out of the system to make that change. I wish all the folks in this doc the very best. Frontline docs are so fantastic that I feel guilty that they are free so I try to donate to my local PBS when I can.

[@jasmineparker253]

Agreed they are both very very good parole officers. The Brayfield chick however, different story....

[@sitdowndogbreath]

Yeah her name is Lisa I dealt with somebody like her Believe me they're going to get dealt with down the road God help them if they're ever in a nursing home or a hospital and somebody recognizes them that Lisa girl she walks around like she's hot s*** with that gun it's very easy for someone to grab that gun and shove it up her ass And unfortunately a lot of white chicks are like that nowadays with everything not just being a PO officer but life in general They are soup Nazis You know the grammar Nazis that you see online. One day she's going to get that client that is going to say Oh you want to take me back okay b**** I'll give you a reason to take me back boom and then what. I don't think she's married and if she is it's probably on the decline.

[@cocomarineblu993]

I love the nursing school ladies attitude. She’s amazing and sweet when telling Jessica her grades.

[@jaynehinds3339]

Well done Jessica and her PO for giving her a break ,,a true social worker

[@renorado9868]

I absolutely, love watching Front Line. It's brings important issues into your home, and they make it easy to understand for adults, as well as young adults.

[@WokeProduction]

Frontline is one of the few brands that invests in making the world a better place! Thank you. I'll donate to help you all. Fighting cancer, etc but I'd love to leave the world better than it was when I arrived a few decades ago.

[@virg0_lem0nade]

❤️❤️❤️ wishing you good health and peace

[@WokeProduction]

Thank you fam!@@virg0_lem0nade

[@WokeProduction]

Thank you!!@@virg0_lem0nade

[@LindaMoon-xq1qm]

🌹🌱🍀

[@mxdallasboy1]

That white lady parole officer made me so mad. He wasn't even given a chance, yet the other officers let the others go by with even larger violations. On top of that, her attitude was disgusting. I'm literally fuming. He read her at the end.

[@aconi9836]

Yes. I love how he ended it.

[@amberhollowell2957]

You'll be alright deal with it.

[@mxdallasboy1]

@@amberhollowell2957 Keyboard pu$$y. You'd never say that to my face.

[@deadlyoneable]

@@mxdallasboy1 you’ll be alright. Deal with it

[@palladium607]

@@deadlyoneable lmaooooooooooo

[@jko1854]

Frontline has the best documentaries !!

[@KandiKlover]

Panorama is better but you need a UK VPN to use the site and they only make it available for like a few months after it first airs on BBC.

[@charlesbanksbanks7532]

Absolutely

[@swapmeetsheriffdonknottexp3046]

Good to fall asleep to as well!

[@maximasromulus6316]

Truth!

[@ModalGroove]

For a main stream media outlet they are pretty good. Main stream media is 100% propaganda and lies.. For the most part Frontline documentaries are straight foward and to the point. It's not often but sometimes they are guilty of belting out propaganda lies too.

[@crystalsanchez5720]

I'm crying for Jessica but of happiness, soo proud of her!! She did amazing and her son looks amazingly happy for her. God bless her and her future!

[@jeffdo9195]

Crying over a video?

[@ronstille7924]

My parole officer used to brag how she sends all of us back si i got off parole and by the grace of God i javnt been back in almost 15 years

[@carriealston4716]

jessica's new found confidence💙 in the beginning her head was hanging low..her graduation, her head was high and she was like, look at me. So good

[@susancanter2909]

I wouldn’t want to be ill and vulnerable and have a slasher taking care of me.

[@mesropmadzharyan6727]

That guy saying u don’t care bout me is 100 .

[@maximasromulus6316]

Truth!

[@johnnyfive9815]

True what's also true is that he has a problem following rules your on parole not free

[@maximasromulus6316]

@Frank Maldonado Truth!

[@maximasromulus6316]

@@johnnyfive9815 True.

[@TheTanelChannel]

Tbh looking at the parole halfway house rules is insane.. there should be some change to it, its worse then prison imo. The girl was just following the procedure to get her pay check.. while the whole system should be looked over and changes be brought in.

[@nerdlabstudios7023]

Can we all just take a moment thank & appreciate the outstanding job on this documentary that PBS has done! I mean this is very revealing & informative I am loving watching this and learning about it wow

[@TylerVossler]

Thank you, Frontline for shining a light on this. For those quick to judge these people I would encourage you to look at your own family and think about who in your own family struggles with mental illness or drug addiction, and then imagine them being held to these enslaving restrictions.

[@sitdowndogbreath]

Yeah it's almost like modern day slavery when people run it like that Lisa but the montoya lady it's another chance.

[@sandracmyers]

Sometimes people just need to know that ONE person believes in them.... It's always been MY greatest motivator

[@123456CBOY]

Yes

[@jenniferlawrence9473]

And like I've always said, as long as there's a profit from incarcerating people, NOTHING will change. It's the modern day slave trade.

[@jimsmith7326]

@@jenniferlawrence9473 Lol, leftie. And what are we supposed to do with them? Send them to daycamp?

[@anassakadik4247]

@@jenniferlawrence9473 Criminals put themselves in that position by choosing to engage in actions that violate the rules of society.

[@olivegreen337]

You have to believe in yourself that is why Jessica made it!

[@abigbagofice5460]

he violated parole immediately after being released

[@hoss-lk4bg]

for tha rest of us......any idea who is " he " ?

[@Lampshadeattack]

his gf was the one that got him locked up. she doesn’t care about him. it’s a very sad situation.

[@aliinwonderland656]

@@Lampshadeattack she’s not to blame for decisions that he made. She’s clearly toxic and so is he.

[@davemojarra2666]

Following rules is for chumps, apparently.

[@peggychapman-miller4204]

These probation officers are talking to these people with such obvious disrespect. How could they possibly hope to assist them?

[@WokeProduction]

OMG he got a new parole officer. OMG I am so happy for him, and she seems to be a good one!!! I"m pulling for you man. Watching this show gave me a new lease on life. I will fight my cancer and try to go back to making a better world! Thank you, FrontLine!

[@mexxicokitty]

I hope you succeed in your fight against cancer

[@WokeProduction]

Thanks, working on the fight but also some ventures to leave for my children.@@mexxicokitty

[@baylez4533]

I felt so bad for Raylee. She seems like she holds a lot inside all because her dad doesn't want to be a man and deal with the consequences. He chose the easy way out over wanting to be a better person/father for her. That little girl deserves so much better.

[@davymac92]

Her "dad" is a shameless, selfish, pathetic little man.

[@kennethsouthard6042]

When he told her outside the store, "you can tell me anything." It was obvious that she hoped so hard and waited so long for him to come home and give her some semblance of dad who cares about her. Yet he couldn't see it. Hopefully, she will find her own positive way forward and not solace herself by ending up in a bad situation, pregnant at 15 by someone just like him.

[@recoveringbeautifully4920]

"Dads" like him are usually a girls first heartbreak

[@terri2190]

The way he complained about child support he owed and how it would be hard to find a job with his record...like all that was thru no fault of his own. I do feel bad for his daughter, she is in for a lifetime of disappointment coming from him.

[@CREOLEHEAT]

He's gonna be a disappointment for life. They almost never change completely. They either stop doing drugs as often or they stop for a short time. The second things get hard, they go right back. Just weak

[@AB-sy4gx]

When both of your parents went through the system and you were once these kids, it hits different. Respect to Frontline for this. 🙏🏽

[@kemitchell]

Stay strong. We need to see more how you see things.

[@donrump461]

Good for Jessica for turning her life around! She's very fortunate to have a good son who is doing good things for himself.

[@goaliereids3523]

Some people are their own worst enemies… For many of these people, you can change the surroundings all day long but not the situation

[@EpsiIonEagle]

That guy Erroll, his woman played a big part in his downfall. Probably should have left her alone years ago

[@paulazemeckis7835]

Very true...but addicts stay addicted to dysfunctional relationships. It takes intervention and therapy to understand you need to change the way you think.

[@wisconsinvoleyball]

For sure. He was making such good progress.

[@biglu323]

She probably hooks up with a different drug user boyfriend while Errol's locked up.

[@EpsiIonEagle]

@@biglu323 Of course she does

[@julzdixon63]

@@biglu323 Guarented

[@rachaeldoty6957]

The blonde parole officer, has issues

[@hoss-lk4bg]

think she's tha secretary

[@melanielemire3766]

Yeah, a particular brand of issues that, apparently, are a job requirement; a complete surety that she’s better than her charges combined with a total absence of self-reflection.

[@kimmieknowsrealestate3876]

@@melanielemire3766 right!! She is out of control

[@Ganstagrillz10]

Yeah, racism. Pretty big issue.

[@aconi9836]

Yes! Like she wanted to stick it to him instead of trying to help him transition into society.

[@DiablitozDoritoz]

Rob really opened my eyes when he offered up these wise words... "some kids want both of their parents"

[@jordanalbano9780]

imagine getting let out out jail then going right back bc you can’t resist the urge to post pics of yourself breaking the rules on social media

[@CapitolYaSa]

Thank you FRONTLINE. Parole was presented as a lot more nuanced than I understood it to be.

[@mrgonzales5683]

Vaughn,his parole officer is a real witch!

[@howtorawk]

@@mrgonzales5683 he’s just a clown

[@mrgonzales5683]

@@howtorawk yeah, that too lol 😆

[@Jason-re2zd]

That power drunk parole officer, I think her name was Karen, was awful. So happy Vaughn got another PO.

[@LuisRodriguez-zi1tf]

she was po number 4 but yeah im sure she's the problem and not the convict in front of her.

[@Rvk1016]

Lol Karen lol

[@HabeasJ]

@@LuisRodriguez-zi1tf they were drinking, not even doing illegal drugs. The only reason he was rearrested for doing something that otherwise would be legal is he was on parole.

[@LuisRodriguez-zi1tf]

@@HabeasJ yea and part of his parole requirements was no drinking especially in the halfway house. He knew the rules and broke them anyways and on top of that took pictures of it! He's dumb and has no one to blame but himself.

[@goddesstiva]

same

[@blissfullyme2815]

I like Pawlich, he’s direct but yet practical and has a degree of compassion in his supervisory approach.

[@lovesautodetail]

My probation officer saved my life and im forever grateful for him.

[@DrMAngelo]

The one Parole officer who actually cared about their parolee and wanted them to succeed is the only one who had a successful case. Wonder if that's a coincidence?

[@MrWarrenRB]

Maybe, but the parole officer job is to make sure the parolee is following the rules. The parolee can’t control what officer they get, but they can control following the rules

[@rhaastaa]

The key is being humble and smart enough to do what you have to do to get where you want. It is that simple. Saying you love your kid and then being unwilling to do what you need to do to get back to her is ridiculous. A parole officer isn't supposed to do things your way. Your way is what gave control of your life to others.

[@weatherwatchTX]

I see your point...But it is also only 1 case for each officer for the documentary out of the 50 - 60 -70 cases they have on-going. We also don't see what was edited.

[@kookadams85]

I had a great p.o.

[@shielahaberecht3417]

Mortomor So did you watch a different documentary? Because the one I saw was full of people that still refuse accountability, make excuses, lie, game the system, ignore the rules they find inconvenient, refuse to humble themselves and put their energies into swerving in and around the system with no real goals or plan to succeed. No one, even without the burden of monitored release, can succeed and excel with those attitudes. It's destined for failure... And you blame the parole officer. Unbelievable... I would suggest you do not have a clear vision on what it takes to overachieve. This is in their power... At least to get a better chance.

[@zandale7418]

That one lady is a control freak. She took some kind of perverse pleasure in sending that man back to jail.

[@Val-kp6fs]

Sadly that’s how a lot of POs are. If there were more like the Hispanic lady PO or that white dude PO I think it would be a lot different for a lot of ppl.

[@queenv3]

right and made sure he saw that gun sittin on her hip.

[@july9566]

My last week of an alcohol program , my first dwi, we got a new counselor , just like this one , I might actually say was a bit worse, I was so thankful I was done that week . Oh man she was bad.

[@KandiKlover]

Out of touch too. “Oh just stop breaking the rules it’s like so easy to stay out omg” yeah right it’s so easy that’s why you good job security like that smh

[@charlesgross3589]

I did not like her she is a control freak 😏

[@charlievaluck]

Jess KICKED ASS IN SCHOOL!!!!!!! ❤ I would’ve failed that course hands down

[@mendoza900]

Jessica makes me so proud. I don't know her but she is amazing. I know men like Von. They play the victim role till one day they build the confidence to be themselves and mature into an adult. He'll get there eventually.

[@danajoyce6692]

These guys are in serious denial !!!! Ive never seen grown men blame every problem on everyone but themselves. Its unbelievable. But I am so happy for the girl who finished school. God Bless her !

[@yatesmsw]

Amen

[@jaheemreal198]

Man as a father with kids. The hardest part is watching the little girl cry missing her father. That touched me

[@djsmigs]

Same

[@EastCoastReefer]

Yeah. Beta father.

[@howtorawk]

He’s a clown

[@82566]

His attitude was horrible, I really dont feel he realizes how much he's hurting his daughter 💔😔 by his words and behavior

[@russellknippel1877]

It's got to be so tough having such a POS for a father.

[@freedomworks3976]

I worked at a job that hired many parolees. I started to figure out which ones would make it and which ones wouldn’t. It was personal responsibility and positive attitude that kept the good ones out. Everyone else is the problem & drugs are what kept the returnees returning. We are our own worst enemies 😢

[@chnalvr]

Officer Montoya would make a great teacher/mentor for aspiring or new parole officers. We need more parole officers like her.

[@rachellperry4463]

Soooo proud of Jessica!!! Keep up the good work girl!!!

[@lukecwolf]

Parole hits hard... You're free from prison but you don't get to enjoy the freedoms around life even when it's all around you. Good or bad, people who go through this brutal prison system are strong.

[@ghoststarstalk]

Only the strong survive.

[@ladymonacoofthebluepacific2571]

They come out worse for the wear and never fully recover.

[@julzdixon63]

@@ladymonacoofthebluepacific2571 I agree 100%

[@gavinb907]

@@ladymonacoofthebluepacific2571 That's not true. There are many stories of successful people who came out of prison. The problem is when you know bad people and that's all you know you're going to go back to your former lifestyle.

[@user-sh2mk8ew4c]

Parole is F’d up and I ain’t ever been in trouble. I have an uncle on his 2nd time in the joint he told the DA or whoever to put his parole on his sentence.

[@millerliteliker]

Some people just cannot live within society - they don't hold the same values that most of society holds. You can't change them - and maybe we don't have the right to change them. They need to live with people who hold similar outlooks and values as themselves. For this group of people in that video, that means prison. They will do well there.

[@syuxtun1734]

I remember when I was on parole. My last parole agent was a real pain in my ass. She was younger then me and was on a power trip always threatening me to send me back. I was glad when I was reassigned a new parole agent.

[@davidellis5141]

Your parole officer owns you.

[@KimbradleyMasterGardener]

And, the state.

[@martinrueda93]

Preach it

[@conejoloco7502]

Not in california

[@billgatesleavingyamomshous8177]

The guy who was robbing people said “Nobody got hurt” The people he arrived at gunpoint are scared from that traumatic event for the REST of their lives!!!!

[@KimbradleyMasterGardener]

Yes!!! I have been in an armed robbery (restaurant). It messed me up!

[@paulazemeckis7835]

Obviously the ex-con is not rehabilitated yet. It's not his fault, it is the other person's fault, of course.

[@billgatesleavingyamomshous8177]

@@paulazemeckis7835 true

[@billgatesleavingyamomshous8177]

@@KimbradleyMasterGardener I can’t imagine! That’s crazy. Hope you’re ok. How long ago was it?

[@suzystone244]

Truth.

[@thomasnorman4221]

When I left San Quentin I informed the depth of corruption I needed no parole officer...later when my time was completed at folsom prison I refused parole...that was that

[@mizzounyc]

Addiction is a terrible disease.......heartbreaking.....

[@nick1235100]

I can’t believe they took the phone and went through it!!! I was blown away

[@kohouwd]

Women and their emotions

[@xxxchelly]

No has nothing to do with emotions ignorant person..it's called parole..and I don't agree with the phone thing BUT he's under state control!!

[@audacityx]

lol i couldnt believe dude took pictures of himself breaking the rules hahaha

[@javiermori1710]

I was on probation for an internet related crime.part of my probation was i could have phone but no internet access. Which thankfully my first few probation officers realized in this day and age internet is a must have and gave me that leeway.however i did have to relinquish phone so they could check if i was doing anything i wasnt supposed to be doing.

[@libertarian4323]

@@audacityx The reason most criminals get caught is because they are incredibly stupid and undisciplined. This was a perfect example.

[@trashpanda314]

That poor baby Raylee. Her deadbeat dad "why you cryin" gee I don't know buddy, maybe it has something to do with her dad copping out and abandoning her for the umpteenth time. Delinquent 100K+ in child support to boot. Good grief, get it together. Then the other dude posting pictures on social media drinking in a half way house 🙄. That's a no brainer chief. Glad to see Jessica rising above the bullshit and taking control of the trajectory of her life. She deserves a second chance for sure. Great work by frontline per usual.

[@lovHim100]

Exactly 😡🤦🏽‍♀️

[@jacqdanieles]

Yup. His priorities are buying sneakers for his daughter rather than following the rules so that he can remain outside & be there for Christmas. What a cop out.

[@seandaugherty2033]

Heroin addiction is real buddy so if you ain't walked in them shoes you don't know I've walked in them shoes for 30 years and I've done 14 years in prison because of that drug but I've beat it cause I've been out this time for 4 years fuck heroin

[@seandaugherty2033]

You keyboard fuc$s don't have a clue unless you walked in them shoes

[@trashpanda314]

@@seandaugherty2033 you spent your time the way you wanted to, be it prison or not. I was blown up in iraq and medically retired from the army. Battled oxycontin, heroin, and fentanyl for years bud. But when my kid was born I chose to quit and actually be a father rather than just wasting my life getting high. You can go to rehab, treatment, jail, prison. Doesn't matter what you do, if you aren't ready to put it down you will make up any excuse to justify your bs. I made that choice and never looked back. This fuckin guy in the video repeatedly fucks over his own kid, so I'm sorry but he gets no sympathy from me. Empathy yes, but he's had every opportunity to get it together and he doesn't want to and chooses not to. You can make excuses for him and feel sorry for him all you want, he loves that I'm sure. Gives him a cop out. I've been in the streets buddy, and I choose my kid. Period.

[@lisajeter9511]

Congratulations Jessica! Job well done!

[@sbrose3776]

OMG. Blonde parole officer should get a different career. Every human being deserves compassion. As a former social worker I know it's possible to deliver bad news or to make boundaries without sounding like a cruel and uncaring person. He asked if he had to deal with her again and who could blame him.

[@Linusrox123]

I can understand her frustration, as I had a housemate for years who I basically had to teach to follow the rules and understand how good he actually had it relative to others' lives. Very frustrating. But gradually I learned that a carrot worked better than a stick, and at least repeating to him why I felt he was frustrated and describe what led to him slipping up was superior to doing what this PO was doing... basically forgetting that he is not like her and needs to be taught in a different way.

[@Chula92]

Shorty was so unnecessary!! Real Karen! She’s not cut for it! I don’t expect her to baby him but yooo she was poking at dude ! She’s not that easy on the eyes so I see why she mad 😂 comparing to the other blonde was the worst

[@TheStop]

Shout out to Jessica man, I'm watching this with 7 minutes left to go in the documentary and it looks like shes doing the best

[@Ayyaz711]

I really hope everyone struggling with addiction right now can straighten out their life and be sober

[@faevapaid634]

This video shows how much your mindset makes a difference in negative circumstances

[@ayakotami3318]

Erroll had seemed to be doing so well and then he violated it by using Heroin and getting into a fight. I fo feel sorry for him, but it is Jessica I al the most proud off. She turned her life around and now is a Nursing Assistant! I hope she's doing well now.

[@brianwideman2342]

So basically, you taught your daughter that shiny sneakers were more important than holding yourself accountable. Ok!

[@alishad2666]

It’s beyond f’d up for halfway houses to be in the center of drug ridden areas. A set up for failure 🤦🏾‍♀️ makes it that much harder to stay on the straight path

[@JChang0114]

So where should the be? Rodeo Drive? Park Ave?

[@kiaramurray832]

@@JChang0114 a place where the parolees have a chance to succeed

[@juliehanna35]

You don’t HELP/TRAIN/POSITIVE enforce/give any gawddamn freedom to life ! Cant even go see anyone ? Go get a coffee ? Wtf

[@bulldog8064]

I agree, put these halfway houses smack dab in the middle of a rich white neighborhoods where most brainwashed liberals live!

[@onemorething100]

They didn't put the halfway house in a drug area. The fucking druggies came to the halfway house to sell drugs. It's always somebody else's fault isn't it.

[@addie_is_me]

Jessica and Dante a great pair. Errol's outcome was pretty obvious right away. Rob seems too angry to stay out of trouble and he doesn't really care about his daughter, he uses her, and he is just going to keep hurting her. Thank goodness Vaughn got a new parole officer. I wish we had an update on Vaughn, but with the rest, we know what's up I think.

[@reginalda.bellsr.249]

I’m glad Jessica got another chance!!! The brother, however had NO chance. Smh…. Unfortunately, that is the case for most of us in the system. Smh….

[@applepiebaked.211]

I’m on parole, been doing good , striving for early release off parole! Woot woot .

[@MamaHarperr]

Keep it up!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@valenciaorange2000]

Way to go!

[@rahabvon-horn9152]

This was a hard one to watch. I never realized, basically need permission to take a pee, or a coffee! If Jessica see this?! I'm so Proud of her!! She's done it on her own, an setting example for her son!! You go Girl🙏😃

[@renzoandro7841]

I know right watching her graduate had me emotional...so proud of her Vaughn on the other hand was given a raw stone cold parole officer. And these rules are so f*&k up

[@rsod85]

Because it was the guys 4th parole officer. She gave him basic parole obligations. Don’t drink. Not only did he break that immediately, he posted photographic proof of it. He’s an idiot and deserves to never see a parole board again.

[@JuanCarlosLTO]

@@rsod85 agree. And then he tried to argue why others can drink and why he can’t. Because he’s technically STILL serving his sentence, just outside of prison walls. Optimal conditions? NO! But I would think it’s better than prison although I haven’t experienced neither. Maybe in the mind of an inmate it isn’t clear what parole is. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@clouds661]

Plus when you delete something it isn't actually deleted(yes even when you empty recycle bin)

[@clouds661]

it is just marked by the device as overwritable so when you write new data it will go away but you can use tools to get it back unless its been writen over because then it would be un-recoverable. the only way to delete is to overwrite with 0's or 1's

[@Stargazer69]

What he says at 15:05 speaks a lot about his lack of maturity and utter cowardness. People aren't addicted to drugs, they're addicted to escaping reality.

[@worldhealthrn]

Vaughn said it himself finally....you stray from the path you make it harder for yourself

[@marciafuentes2347]

Why is she speaking to him like he’s a child? She’s the one with a chip on her shoulder. Hope she found a new profession because she’s not helping parolees succeed.

[@kimmieknowsrealestate3876]

My thoughts exactly!!!

[@gregorythomas2674]

These are grown men acting like babies thats why. They are f ups and need discipline and structure. They are criminals who have burglarized and in some cases been violent. Do the work to get better or go back to jail. Those are the rules. Its not easy but its that or continue to be a menace to society.

[@danielgallagher4229]

Lets be honest, these guys are the scum of the earth trying to get over on you every other second. You have to be firm with these people especially being a woman. If you can't handle someone in a position of authority over you than you are going to have a rough time in this life. Toughen up and dont be so easily offended

[@gregorythomas2674]

@@danielgallagher4229 Amen!

[@jimhanratty9543]

How hard is it to follow the rules get the halfway house ordeal over with. These guys are unbelievable, just cooperate, just get it over. Rob is a complete idiot.

[@chrissimpson1991]

Ive been through this and having a good parole officer makes all the difference. Props to officer montoya for being a commendable officer.

[@williamyoung9401]

The end is SO sad! Jesus, if they just would have let the guy stay with his girlfriend instead of dropping him off in a heroin park, he would have never been back!!! This System is so broken, but it's designed that way....it needs a complete overhaul, from the Top-down.

[@melaninpopping175]

@@williamyoung9401 no he went and found his own place n was free to go n come as he pleased. So that wasn’t the problem

[@cynthiadavid5282]

Videos are great this what happens on parole and when u break parole this is real all should watch and learn

[@cynthiadavid5282]

Some don't understand the rules of parole and end back in the system to me parole is a joke

[@cynthiadavid5282]

If the prisoners are on parole and go break the rules. They should not be allowed no more parole they should have one chance and one chance only and back to the slammer they go for life

[@nahaliaqueen6796]

Poor raelynn. She would have said screw those shoes if it meant having him home

[@technum1]

The 11 year situation is heart breaking. Hope to god every thing worked out well.

[@lisamartin3734]

Putting a half-way house in a drug infested neighborhood is just crazy to me😱😱😱

[@albertlawrence9357]

The NIMBYs won't let them be established anywhere else. The same privileged whites who cry injustice to show their wokeness are just like that blonde female parole officer - indifferent racists.

[@jaynehinds3339]

Totally

[@VoltairesRevenge]

@@albertlawrence9357 Chu’ch!

[@tjlovesrachel]

It’s really typical though

[@Colt-fo5jd]

This reminds me of when my friend and I were heroin addicts, he stole some very expensive items over a 4-5 month period and pulled in around 100 grand. I remember being so jealous that he had all this money and dope. Well, he got caught and locked up for 5 yrs. I would never trade 5 years of my life for 100 grand

[@billgatesleavingyamomshous8177]

What was he stealing?

[@paulazemeckis7835]

Did you get help for your addiction? Might take a few years....but stay with it. It is very hard to rehabilitate, but it is doable.

[@audacityx]

I only got paid $20,000 a year for around 5 years growing up so in a sense I traded 5 years of my life for 100 grand

[@f.m.8916]

@@audacityx lol me too but I was free to do whatever I want on my days off, unlike in prison. I was too tired from work to do anything fun most of the time but I could have if I wanted to : )

[@melanielemire3766]

Yeah, and he didn’t have to spend any of that 100k paying 5 years worth of rent. Where do I sign up?

[@jessicacossin6282]

Such a great channel!

[@autumnbranch5839]

My heart broke for Raylee. It just broke. She seems like an awesome kid. Errol🤦🏾

[@baylez4533]

She does. She seems very smart for her age too. Poor things. She deserves so much better.

[@JaneD0eNyc]

I love the fact that they are trying to revamp the parole system and jail system overall. Definitely needs it!

[@supernova44]

Heard NYC's a shooting gallery and crime has gotten 1970s worse. Cash bail on armed robberies, etc. is huge mistake.

[@Speedster189]

Where

[@williamyoung9401]

Wow dude...go to jail for sneakers, seeing your own daughter and taking her out to dinner....parole is almost worse than jail, because they dangle your family right in front of you, but tell you can't see them. Yeah, when has that ever worked in human history? o_O

[@ThePaulyd101]

Are they really? Yes. It is needed because it’s harmful to people who are misguided into thinking that they are “free” but still have to attend a court at a later time. Which limits their chance to obtain a higher employment status. Which limits their opportunity to have a better reputation. And thus to just keep up with a crowd

[@diegus012]

At 45:07 when Vaughn says how he doesn’t understand, really broke me. He was like a little kid. Really broke my heart 💔

[@jdefeo9841]

best narrator voice in documentaries.

[@Skottink]

Dude thought he was going to get drunk in a halfway house and was pissed they violated him. Lol.

[@stephaniemurria5534]

Yes. That was stupid. Took a picture as evidence.

[@margueritemazzeo2904]

What a dumb bell.😅😂

[@LilMOMMAson]

These dudes still can’t follow the rules.

[@ianriggs]

That little girl talking about her dad being able to be there for her birthday that was so sweet. She is a very smart kid for sure 👍

[@ChristinalwMorales]

Praying worldwide

[@ssttaaccyy]

I was placed on probation at 45 y.o. for first time. It was no where near as restrictive as parole but nonetheless life changing. Having to answer to an authority that holds your well being, occupation, future, living arrangements, family along with all hopes and dreams in their grasp is a feeling beyond description. An officer similar to Montoya changed my perspective. We need more understanding and empathy like hers in this impossible system.

[@stephenmartinez1]

probation is nothing like parole. at least misdemeanor probation, which is the only one I've had experience with. Since I've seen plenty of therapists and counselors in my life for drug addiction, the 6 months with the probation officer for petty theft was pretty much just another person to talk to, because I don't really have any friends and my entire life I've had almost no one to talk to about my feelings and issues, so I did not mind the once a month session. but there was basically no rules or conditions for petty theft probation, I was even allowed to drink (not that I did, I've never been an alcohol drinker), I was free to travel, and do whatever. As long as I showed up and did not commit any more crimes there was nothing to worry about. He did want drug tests, but since I was already in an outpatient treatment center for addiction, I was allowed to just fax him the ones I already took there. Maybe a suspended sentence just requires court supervision, and to make sure I did the 32 hours of community service.

[@oldones59]

​​bation is through the courts. Parole is through a DOC.

[@ssttaaccyy]

@@oldones59 oh i understand that Sir. The meaning i meant to express with my comment was that it is difficult to be a human in a controlled situation. Bless thes Parolees. I just cant even imagine being incarcerated and THEN be restricted in every way upon release.

[@ssttaaccyy]

@@stephenmartinez1 I admitted to my crime. I am a Felon, 5 years highly supervised. highly regimented, a violation will get me incarcerated, that stress has been goin on like 4 years and Im just so damn tired I tell ya. My sons have grown into adults and dont hang around moms.... cant bring your six pack or joint into my backyard for an afternoon bbq.. never know if my Officer might just pop by unannounced. My friends n cousins dont stop by for horseshoes or to play a few hands of cards anymore. we are all left thinking if me going in for the 2 years would have been a better choice for the mental, physical of my and familial well being of our loved ones... so much that we were trying to keep the same has changed because of our choice... idk, you experienced differences ( i also expected to) but i got a lot of parole similarities. say a prayer for me and mine please as i will for you and yours. blessed by differences bringin us together, thank you and take care❤

[@robertclark9]

Some probations make parole look like a cake walk. It depends on the stipulations and provisions with probation. And often, they can be very confusing and inconsistent. Parole is more structured.