How Correctional Officers Disrespect Inmates

[@christinaarandall]

I’m late but I’m here to support my girl!!! 🥰 Oh and 1 dislike before the video has even been up long enough to watch! Seems like the people who don’t like you have their notification bell on 🎉

[@JessicaKent]

Hope that hater didn't skip the ads 😂

[@livjernigan1694]

Ik it's so annoying

[@Victoriaox]

You both are sooooo amazing!!!! 😭❤️

[@luvmenow33]

Lol! Can you imagine being such a loser that you put on notifications just to dislike someone's video? Dear Lord. Great video btw Jess.

[@nalaeyes5195]

#savage

[@JessicaKent]

Yes I know there is lipstick on my teeth. No I do not care 😂 love y'all!

[@Torriaw1]

You look amazing!

[@elizabethgregory]

I didn't even see it haha

[@Purrrr4]

I didnt even notice tbh lol

[@anthemiusaugustulusiii8445]

Didn’t even notice until I saw your comment great vid jess

[@badapplemedia.]

Brian sent me. Heard him mention you as a mod on his channel. I'm digging your content. Hearing women speak on their experience is interesting. I did 4 years in Michigan. I battled with admin and C.O.'s nonstop. There were many disrespectful C.O.'s in MDOC. I didn't take their shit. Throw my mail on the floor OR flap that Peter puffer at me about my visit and I'd go off on em. Done it plenty. But when the cowards of the system are dealing with men, and not women, they know better. Seems like a different type of disrespect for women. But like you said not all of em are rotten, just the majority. And the good ones don't last long at all. The ones that remain for whatever reason, you can tell they are good people. They just have a shit job. They can't speak out against the bad ones, they'll do them dirty too. I'll be watching more. BTW...Reese reminds me of a friend of mine. They could be twins. Peace n Hairgrease....

[@Dafquez]

Leaving you in the shower for hours with no way to be able to sit down was beyond disrespectful, it was abusive. I'm so sorry for all these awful things you went through, but I'm grateful you have the strength to share your stories to benefit others.

[@thebsidebasement]

One of the plus sides to an officer calling you inmate is that if you’re walking away you can get away with not answering because he said inmate and that could be anybody around you

[@JessicaKent]

Facts!!!!

[@MaryTheresa1986]

That's what I thought. In addition to bring disrespectful, calling everyone the same thing is ineffective and leads to unnecessary confusion.

[@bobdees6428]

I have seen a few of your videos but I am a little amazed at your lack of understanding, knowledge of officers training. Officers are not allowed to call inmates by their first names ? they are trained repeatedly to call you a inmate or by your number. Officers are repeatedly taught about over-familiarization ; calling inmates by first name, showing favoritism or showing any kind of interest in a particular inmate. Mail call is picked up by your ID or your number, the only time I have ever seen a officer call a inmate by first name was in the hospital.

[@Asdfgqedfglo]

Wow. That is so shitty. Years ago I went on a date with this guy that worked as a correctional officer in a jail(or maybe prison I forget). So as we are driving up this mountain to have lunch in the mountains he starts telling me about his job. He starts telling me how he treats all the people locked up. He was bragging about how he treats these people. He said he would go into cells and grabbed the guys cookies(their ONLY cookies, something they were probably really looking forward to enjoying) throw them on the floor and then step on them and walk out of the cell. He would do that because he thought it was “funny,” that’s what he said. He said he would call the black men in there n****** and then trash all their stuff because he didn’t like black people. As he’s telling me all this I’m just sitting there quiet, in shock that he could treat other human beings this bad for absolutely no reason. So finally I interrupted him and very calmly and very directly said “stop the car.” I got out, in the middle of no where, way up in the mountains, no cell service, and started walking back down the mountain. I’d rather walk for hours then have to share the same air with a pos like that. That was my experience dealing with a correctional officer. Horrible. I’m sorry you had to deal with that kind of treatment.

[@ButsNustin]

They aren’t all like that, and I seriously doubt he’s still a CO

[@my2cents616]

If your story is truthful,good for you!!

[@leepritchet2292]

I'm sorry your too good to "Share the same air" ... please

[@alondramulero5915]

I'm glad you left the guy. guys like that aren't worth your time. Yes prisoners are prisoners and have done very sh!tty things in there past but that doesn't mean they deserve to be treated like sh!t. They need to be treated like human beings and throw some punishment in there too. something needs to change, being treated like sh!t isn't gonna help the person be better in our community.

[@keithwillis4524]

I was in shackles and handcuffs and a gard beat the fuck out of me. Then later on I saved this life. He was having a heart attack and I did CPR on him until another officer got there.he did come back to work but not for a while he was really nice to me when he came back and he said that he couldn't believe I was the one who saved his life..

[@jehold2010ify]

My dad was a Corrections officer. He was always an outsider because he wasn't part of the abuse your power over the inmates gang. You can enforce the rules and still treat people like humans.

[@meahdahlgren6537]

❤

[@kateberry2004]

My grandpa worked in a maximum security prison for thirty years and he started as a case worker then became a sergeant. I never asked him about his past work experience until tonight after I have been watching you videos for a couple months. You’re connecting people and changing lives. Thank you Jessica❤️❤️❤️

[@blaineholsonbake3613]

I spent over 21 years as a juvenile corrections officer and never mistreated anyone under my supervision. Yes, I did have to physically intervene in certain situations, but I never took it personally. Even after all the years I spent dealing with difficult and violent kids I was never assaulted. In fact, I still correspond with 3 of my former inmates. All young people deserve respect and positive role models.

[@KileyTheNurse]

I hate the fact that she has to say a disclaimer in her videos!! Why don’t people stop getting butt hurt and just live, love, and show grace?! 🤷🏼‍♀️💜

[@emeraldm0on-yt]

I thought you were gonna say live laugh and love lol

[@KileyTheNurse]

icon for hire x flyleaf lol That works too!!

[@alanjames1744]

Her video is real as it gets she is simply trying to change the judicial system. How about you get off a page u have no business being in. Hater jealous over a incarcerated human being. WOW... WHAT DO THEY GOT THAT YOU DONT HAVE . YOUR THE ONE WHO IS COMPLAINING YOU SHOLD TAKE YOUR OWN ADVICE

[@alanjames1744]

@@KileyTheNurse so why are you getting butt hurt over a real problem that millions go threw on a daily basis. Kry baby kiley

[@thebuellhood1661]

I work as a peer support specialist in a mental health agency, supporting people in their recovery’s from addiction and mental health. I often meet with their PO’s , support them in paying their legal fines , etc. I know a lot about the mental health side of things but I struggle with the addiction piece of it as I don’t have much lived experience with prison and addiction. It is so helpful to hear your personal experience and really understand where my clients are coming from. Thank you thank you thank you! 💕💕💕

[@MKcousins]

This video made me feel better about being the CO that I am. I haven’t done any of these. I see it as you guys are in there doing your time, so why would I want to make that worse on you guys when you’re already being punished enough? I mean, there’s obviously some things that I absolutely have to put on paper. I don’t enjoy doing it, but that’s my job and some things I absolutely can’t let go. I’m that CO that when you’re leaving, I yell, “Don’t come back!” I truly want to see everyone that leaves that sallyport succeed. That’s why someday I’m hoping to be a counselor, so I can continue to help you guys succeed in life after prison instead of have to take away. It really is a difficult job and unfortunately there are some that think having that power makes them better than you guys and it’s bull shit. You guys are human just like us and deserve to be treated the same. I hope in your experience, you did get to meet some COs like that because I promise you we do exist. There’s just a lot of shitty ones that outshine the ones that try to be fair.

[@FluffyCarpenterBee]

Calling someone inmate instead of their name is dehumanizing and reinforces the fact that you don't matter. Using your name would mean you were an individual and deserving of said treatment, using inmate makes it very easy to be unkind because it's easy to be unkind when you don't see a person when you look at someone. One of the first things we learn about each other is our name and it can tell us a lot, a name is a powerful thing, after a tragedy people make a point to say the names of those impacted out loud and some people make the point of never speaking the names of those responsible for said tragedy. Taking a name away from a person again and again can be akin to trying to remove that person's identity.

[@listay1]

Inmate numbers do the same thing!

[@roger26908]

No it’s no it’s because you don’t work in a prison and don’t understand why and how things work

[@lillypad12497]

The reason behind calling someone inmate or by a number for me is if I don’t know their name, or I’ll use the number if I know the name and can’t pronounce the name. HOWEVER I do try to avoid those...

[@sunmoonchild4092]

I love how honest and real that you are. At the same time your classy with the things you say and how you say it. Thank you for your honesty Love🙏🏽

[@MaritzaGiana]

I went to jail one time and when I left a few people said to me “ be good, don’t come back here”. The CO replied, “ she’ll be back, they always come back”. As the door closed behind us and we walked down a long hallway. I look at her and said. “ do you say that to everyone, that they’ll be back? I started laughing. I said , let me tell you something, you don’t know me. I have a college degree, I’m here for a petty warrant. Specifically a CELL PHONE ticket. My parents were on vacation and they wouldn’t let me make a phone call so there was no way for me to get bailed out before they transferred me to the county jail. I know I won’t be back. And I’m smart and confident enough to know that. But these girls here that don’t know any better. That don’t have family or a good support system to tell them there worth something and to believe in themself. They believe you when you say things like that. And it’s really sad people in your position downgrade broken humans beings who need help. This is exactly why people don’t feel bad for you guys that your so underpaid. Bc when your feeding fuel to a problem and not giving your heart to help fix a problem, you become the problem. This is why our system is a revolving door bc of people like you. And god sees you. So no I won’t be back. But I will pray for you out there.

[@kp.4830]

In Russian “kent” is like a slang that is used to say homie, so u have a pretty cool last name!! 😎 also I love your videos, thank you for being so real and not holding back the truth! This should have more attention!! Love ya ❤️

[@lexi7473]

Kk P. What really? That’s awesome. I’m Russian and I’ve never heard that term, haha. But that’s awesome!

[@avgvangelderen4677]

yeah i've literally never heard that.

[@ileanek4565]

У нас даже сказуемое используется от этого слова: "закентяриться", "закентоваться", то бишь " подружиться" :D

[@joanna-vv1rk]

In Danish it means “known”

[@taylorismylife2997]

Alexandra Long me too lol!

[@moeandco]

It’s a shame u & Christina have to give the same disclaimer when you’re gonna speak on YOUR experiences in prison like can’t we all be grown🤷‍♀️?

[@meahdahlgren6537]

❤❤

[@nevadacollins6132]

That candle on top of the bed is giving me a heart attack lol. I feel you here girl I'm so proud of you.

[@MinyPiggy]

It would be really awesome if you can have a correctional officer that will agree to be a guest in one of your videos. It would be awesome to hear both sides of the story together!

[@Alexandra-ng1ih]

After leaving a mental hospital for self harming when I was 13, one of my favorite staff members told me before I left “see you for a third time” didn’t even say bye or anything. Crushed me.

[@LUVROCK5800]

Say inmate too many times and it doesnt even sound like a word anymore

[@robertrp3757]

As a i’ll psychologist, I can see the reason why they call you inmate, Yesterday personalise you and have a stand away from that haven’ yesterday personalise you from their selves. If they start using your name, it becomes more of a friend kind of basis. It’s a Punishment facility, they have to be straight and orderly with you. Like the army in a sense.

[@alleywatson7404]

Stay comfy in those jammies mama! Might as well be comfortable 😘

[@kadblue2000]

Damn . I so glad i came across this channel. Your story is very inspiring! If your past self could see you now!

[@pinkgiraffe378]

That is so disrespectful that they won't even call you by your name. That's just horrible.

[@katrinascheuermann763]

I remember you telling the shower story! How awful. I probably would have cried or caved and sat down. You’re very strong!!! Props

[@robograham12]

Dehumanizing inmates is very counterproductive for rehabilitation. Which is supposedly the purpose of prison. It's a great way to ensure recidivism.

[@stoner0046]

As a retired CO, I remember the two years I ran the visit program at the prison, part of my responsibilities was to give a briefing about the visit program to all the incoming inmates. Each one revived a booklet that included the dress code of the prison. I would tell them "if you want your visit you must inform your visitors of the rules of the institution, my job is not to teach your visitors, only reject them if they do not comply with our rules."

[@lexi7473]

You shouldn’t have to apologize or defend yourself for speaking out about the truth about the prison system!!! Keep preaching girl, you speak the truth and you are raising awareness-I have never been incarcerated and have learned so much from you. You have opened up the eyes of many-love all your content ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

[@queengeek0414]

Hey Jessica, you are such an inspirational KZbinr because of how far you have come and how much you have changed. In my sociology class we are doing about crime and deviance and I suggested using your videos to show how it is inside a prison from a first hand account. I'm also suggesting Christina's video's as well to show a few perspectives. If anyone reading this knows anything about what it's like inside a prison or they are a correctional officer I would really appreciate a few little messages about what it's like. Love your account and stay sober, stay strong and stay beautiful.

[@mariaareingdale74]

Girl I’ve been watching your videos for the last two days and I seriously love you! You’re awesome! Super proud of you

[@gloomyxbabee]

They call you inmate or your number to dehumanize you. It's disgusting

[@tiffanak1]

I respect you and appreciate your content so much. I think it’s incredibly important for people to hear the reality of what is the punitive structures within correctional facilities.

[@SuperCelliott]

You’ve come such a long way based on your story. My son has been in and out of jail and getting ready to go to prison. The only thing I can do is pray.

[@reiganpickle9701]

Okay but girl can we talk about how good your makeup looks??? I’m in love

[@TheEverSerene]

I think the thing that would mess with me the most would being mocked for not having any visitors. Thanks for sharing this, as always, Jess 💜

[@Melaniesue92]

"Ugh.. There's a reason he got punched in the face." 😂😂 I lost iiiiit

[@JohnWhite-hf8nc]

U did the right thing by not picking up your mail infront of everyone

[@kindnessandconfetti6339]

You are such a inspirational person! I love and respect how you take accountability and responsibility for your actions and have changed your life. So proud of you! 🙌🏻

[@christinemakeuprebel8982]

It's so hard to hear how human beings are being treated in prison no one is less than or more than any other. It hurts my heart so much to know people are being treated this way every day all day for years at a time. I love your channel Jess keep opening eyes and spreading the message!

[@Youre_Right]

Them calling you by your last name or inmate is required. Start using a names and it’s the first step in relationship bonding. So they aren’t allowed to do it. I remember a guard who would forget and would call us by our first name and would correct himself.

[@siobhan5214]

I was a CO in youth custody and my main goal was to make the kiddos smile. My other goal was to make them feel cared about. This was frowned upon by my coworkers but I did it anyway lol. I hope to be a CO in adult custody later so I can continue to spread kindness!!

[@edblaskowski81]

I think the CO’s should have to watch your videos as part of their training. They provide a lot of insight that would be beneficial for the prisons to run more smoothly.

[@Savvy_lurker_14]

“Like there’s a reason you got punched in the face” LOL

[@hayleygrimes8804]

At first, I wasn't sure how I felt about your channel, but, now, I am so happy to have found it! One more person who changed their life around and has prison stories! Twice the stories for me! I love what you do, how you changed your life around, and most of all, your courage along with Christina, who is also amazing, to share your experiences to help others. Keep it up! It is truly amazing and mind boggling to me.

[@bobwisdom7749]

The way they treat inmates impacts the way they treat people when they come out treat them with respect

[@NameGoesHere341]

I'm a CO and i'd love to have a conversation with you any time.

[@calliopeblue2303]

O di the

[@itsstephie5492]

It's horrible how the people get treated in prison! It's not right. I really hope it stops one day.

[@nikatnight1990]

At the county jail in Houston tx they have a sign when you leave that says “come back soon! we will leave a light on for you”

[@lockandloadlikehell]

^^That's 5th Ward shit

[@lindzyschultz1994]

As part of training we are taught to only use last names and not to use gender specific pronouns because it could mean a lawsuit if someone were to be offended.

[@xkellyxx95]

I got arrested for the first time about a month ago and it was a horrible experience. I’m on anti depressants and they refused to give me them, once they did agree to the correction officers literally threw them on the ground and told me to pick them up which I refused to do. Denying food because I wouldn’t do certain things so they’d literally make me skip meals. On intake I was literally held down and my piercings were ripped out. It was over all horrendous. Nobody Deserves to be treated like an animal unless they’re a rapist or child molester.

[@karabennett2583]

I’m a co and refused to do any of these. I work in a men’s prions I called them sir if I don’t know name

[@teamcougars]

My dad was a guard at San Quientin here in California when I was really young. He hated the job.

[@alishag430]

I have been refused a visit with my husband because they didn't like that my shirt had buttons even though I had a shirt under it. It wasn't even contact visits. I literally walked out and went to the museum of science that was next door bought the most ridiculous t-shirt and went back and they finally let me in right after another woman who was wearing the same exact buttoned shirt I had on originally. I was livid but kept a smile on my face cause I wanted that hour to be sure my husband was ok.

[@peanut-qc2ww]

Wow that sounds horrible :( I'm happy you got to see your husband

[@stormicynder8336]

5 hours standing in a shower? That's ridiculous.

[@kelliefowler8798]

I’ve never been this early to one of your videos. I want to thank you for you sharing so much of your story and give the good/bad/ugly. As a recovering addict myself your story gives me so much hope that I can stay strong in my journey.

[@RoAdamClausen]

Ugh, all of these examples send shivers down my spine. SO MUCH disrespect. I can't tell you how many times I've seen cops mess w/ visitors just to mess w our family members on the inside.

[@hannaotte7374]

Don't you dare put that evil on me Ricky Bobby!

[@christyinthecarolinas]

When you're leaving and the officers are talking crap, It's because they want to shock you and want you to prove them wrong. It's not because they want you back in there. We legit want you to say to yourself, heck no you won't see me and then prove it. It's challenging sure... But it's not a negative challenge! Also the other crap that you went through... Totally unacceptable! You're there to serve time. Not to be mistreated. I always treated every single person with respect. You respect me, and I'll respect you. But even the ones that didn't, I never cracked down on unless I had to. People forget that these are human beings with feelings and emotions. But I've seen some pretty nasty things take place and officers misuse of force. It's disgusting

[@JessicaKent]

Yea. Most are not hardened criminals either. Whats sad is most of them have endured absue or some trauma and prison is only making it worse. The statistics on PTSD alone are horrible. Ty for you input girl 💜 💜

[@christyinthecarolinas]

@@JessicaKent that's the thing. Our prisons are filled with victimless crimes. I really pray that marijuana is legalized on a federal level. Imo those people shouldn't be there...

[@JessicaKent]

@@christyinthecarolinas Totally agree 💙

[@francescafoster854]

Such an insightful perspective. Thank you, you're so right!

[@calliopeblue2303]

Well those in particular situations that can not motivate how can you talk strawberry crape about people who have put up with beef for years be motivated and refreshed by more meanness no offence every experience is different :)

[@zypherdun5294]

This is what I never can get: People complain and complain about jail and prison, then you ask them how many times they've been locked up. And the answer is never, ever, "Once".

[@scottmitchell3169]

sad to say they let a little of power go to their head. people who breaks the law should be punished , but should be treated like human beings. This really pisses me off

[@larrybooker4148]

One of the most important components of Corrections is Rehabilitation. All staff at the facilities need to show offenders how to be respectful by having respectful interactions with them. The staff really needs to realize someday they will be their neighbors in the community.

[@JessicaKent]

Its so sad but so many offenders are victims of abuse ...Drug addicts or have struggled in some way. So the verbal abuse just deepens whatever the person is struggling with

[@kellyganey5032]

Hey, Jess! I so enjoy all your stories and although I, personally, have never been to prison, your stories are so fascinating. You have come SO very far in your journey and you only have YOURSELF and GOD to thank for saving your life. I'M SO, SO PROUD OF YOU!! (Not even to mention how adorable Micah and Riley are). :) My son was a CO at the federal prison where we live here in Georgia when he was only 19. He's an RN now, but at the time that he worked at the prison, (keep in mind, I absolutely HATED him working there and worried CONSTANTLY) he'd told me that I didn't need to worry about him because the prisoners liked and respected him. He went on to say that the leader of one of the biggest gangs there really, really liked him a lot and had told him that the reason the prisoners were so receptive of him was that he showed them respect and didn't treat them like animals and he would talk with them, watch games on t.v. with them, etc. He still did his job, but he didn't try to make them feel "less than". He said the gang leader told him he was "too good" for that job and if he wanted to stay in corrections, he should go to the state prison about 60 miles from where we live because he'd have the benefits of the Union. I just asked him, "When u were a CO at the prison, were u taught not to call a prisoner by his first name at all? Like, could u only call him by his last name, prison #, or refer to him as "innate"?" (the exact text I sent). He said they were suppose to do exactly that, but if he knew them well or knew their first name, he called them by their first name. He said if he didn't know their first OR last name, that's the only time he referred to them as inmate. I asked what the purpose was behind being taught not to use first names. He said it's because it puts you on a personal level with them and opens a door for them to manipulate you. And one last thing to consider that he mentioned. The inmates call the COs by THEIR last names or they call them CO. :) In other words, it's really not out of disrespect for the inmate or to dehumanize him/her. Keep up the awesome job you're doing and CONGRATS on your upcoming B.A.!!

[@shessy123]

I’m never this early! Love you Jess! I always look foreword to your videos 💓

[@SarahChristina]

Here to support my girlllll ❤️

[@cocamila]

Not sure if you ever experienced them but I’d love to hear the opposite, the good/respectful things c/o does!

[@JessicaKent]

I definitely have experienced some kindness and I will share soon 🖤

[@britannigaucher8520]

Thank you for this comment. Jessica - I 100% feel for you girl, but as the wife of a CO (and an honestly amazing human being) I watch videos like these and cringe. There are always bad apples and so much anger can be built up and thrust towards a single group of people. I worry about my husband ever night when he leaves for work and I always say "I hope everyone stays safe." I never want to hear about a CO or inmate getting hurt.

[@notyourbusiness9485]

Jess you are the best!

[@marsharowaihy6725]

That’s BullCRAP, the guards say: see ya soon, on their way out! What?

[@Butterfly-pw4lb]

Wow your so well spoken.... came from Christina’s channel!! ❤️❤️ new subbie

[@JessicaKent]

💙

[@TessMac]

Very interesting perspectives I had not even thought about before. As always you’re educating me about the prison system. Thank You Jess! You’re fantastic! 💜💜💜💜💜

[@JohnaFactsDontCare...]

Wow, I retired from a state prison job. A lot of COs take the job because it boosts their self esteem and gives them a sense of power when they probably never had any before. We were instructed in boot camp to always be professional and call inmates by their last name and if we didn't know it, to use "inmate" or "offender". As a female in a male max security prison, anything else looks as though you're forming an "inappropriate relationship", and gets you blackballed from any move you put in for. Throwing your letter was straight up disrespectful, as is saying you'll be back, even though recidivism rates are 75%, it's not a COs job to make that prediction. Dress code for visitation... Our written rules state nothing that shows any body part typically associated with sexual gratification. This included showing cleavage, side boob, even open toed shoes weren't allowed. This is because Sooo many fights have happened because one inmate ogled another inmates wife or daughter. We've also had cases where children came dressed inappropriately to visit their father, who was a pedophile, solely because he told his wife to. This inmate was caught masterbating under the table while his daughter sat on his lap. Obviously, not a good mother. I don't deny there are a lot of bad correctional officers, but some things you mentioned are protocol, and there are reasons for it that you may not think of. That being said, I spent 24 years working state prisons, because I couldn't make myself do 25. When I left I swore I'd never work anyplace where I had to pretend people don't matter, because they do. My time since has been spent taking care of the elderly, and I genuinely love it. I'm sorry for what you went through, I'm sure it was hell. Even I have PTSD from things I saw and couldn't stop from happening in time to help. Bless you for turning your life around, and being willing to share the journey with us. It does my heart good to see people succeed when the odds are against them.

[@stevemalbasa3045]

Hello Jess, I taught school in a jail for seven years in a juvy facility. My first day in my classroom, I watched the then-teacher say something to the kids along the lines of he could go home every day and they couldn't. I promised myself I would never do that. He also ran the classroom in a very lazy manner, which I also did not appreciate. For seven years, whenever a kid was released, I always told them that they could stay out of there if they wanted to, that this wasn't a place for them, that they didn't like me and I really didn't like them either. SO STAY OUT OF MY CLASSROOM!!!! I was in the Army for 11 years and used my sergeant voice all the time in my classroom, and I was demanding and tough on my students. I ran my classroom like I ran my squad. I also was firm but fair with them, I believe most of them would say that, and the ones who didn't, well. I am proud of my class of enemies in life, both in that job and elsewhere. My students knew that I got to leave at the end of the day. They knew that, it helped no one to point that out, and I felt it was just disrespectful to do and beneath me. I was a better teacher than that. One time, with a young lady who was being a complete idiot on her release date, I lost my composure and said I would see her back. As soon as I did, I regretted it, because I promised myself I would never do that. The fact that I saw her again three weeks later did not excuse me.

[@curvycutie1206]

I done 8 years for drug charges and I had an officer actually listen in on my personal phone call with my family then she spread it around the prison what was going on in my life at home. It was very hurtful and it pissed me off but there was nothing I could do about it

[@ryanforster8761]

as one talk show host said "that's not a few bad apples that's an orchard of destruction" i'm sorry all that happened to you.

[@TF1A3]

Im going to be a corrections officer in 2 weeks and watch your videos to learn how to handle those in prision and also how to respect them and be as fair as I can with them. So thank you for posting your videos.

[@pennytrui1149]

How is your job I'm thinking to apply

[@ashleyjones2023]

Jess I love your content.. i am a CO and can definitely see your side of things 100%. I never call anyone “inmate” to their face. Last name is the simplest way to address everyone in jail because it doesn’t make anyone feel less of themselves. Especially if you have someone who is LGBTQ, if you just address them by NAME like everyone else then you aren’t being disrespectful.

[@bobwisdom7749]

Inmates treat respectfully

[@infinite.formss]

As soon as she said "Yes, I am wearing pajamas", I clicked like. 😂 That's my kind of person!

[@Emily-mu1ln]

It's heartbreaking that this is what you endured every single day. It's so sad and so scary to realise how institutional this disrespect is, so new staff just keep picking up the belief that its okay to treat people as sub-human and that their sense of authority is valid. I saw a lot of the same things you mentioned when I was a student getting shown a prison out here in Australia - there was a small group of us in reception and two guys about to get out, and the first question the CO asked them was 'how many times have you come through here?'. My jaw straight up hit the floor, like I couldnt believe that anyone could be that insensitive. The same with the way the CO addressed the inmates when she wasnt speaking to them directly - there were riots in a prison out here in the 70s because (in part) the COs addressed inmates as crim/crook/inmate. The CO taking us around used their names face-to-face, but when talking about the whole prison/unit she was using the exact same stigmatised language. This video is really important and I'm so glad that you're raising awareness and holding COs accountable for their shitty behaviour - I love the channel and everything you're doing here, thanks for keeping it real

[@joshuainglis8371]

love your videos so much. you should be so proud of how far you have come in life💞

[@kimberlytalbot852]

I can't imagine what it is like in prison. I don't think I would survive it,mentally and physically

[@JanayDiamond]

Damn, that dislike squad is good. It’s been up 2 mins. Ugh!

[@jacegallagher8589]

Calling people by last name is not disrespectful. 1st, only in the U.S. and a select few other countries is first name basis ok, outside of friends. 2nd, the military, police, corrections, ambulance, firefighters and many other professions address people by last names. That is from a tradition of your life being about honoring your family. For example, in the military, we used last names to remind ourselves that we represent not just ourselves but the family that gave us life. It was to remind ourselves that our actions honor or bring dishonor to more than ourselves. I get annoyed with civilians who think using last name is an insult and for being so easy to offend in general.

[@trueprisonstoriesbygaryyor3684]

My wife and I both retired from state prison and county jail and we always tried to be fair, impartial and respectful. However as you said at the beginning respect goes both ways and there are officers that do not care and incarcerated that do not care. The pendulum swings both ways. I used the last name, example: Inmate kent you have a visitor or Inmate Kent its count time you know the routine, the faster your in the faster your out. Anyway good video.

[@Eric-gv4di]

That's so messed up, makes me mad thinking they treat people like that

[@noslack5406]

I work at a Male prison. I saw one of my jackass fellow staff get his eye socket broken for basically the same thing that happened to you with the mail.

[@maryromero9729]

I think your amazing person you have been through so much and now showing all the haters how you have made it to top. Your awesome 😎

[@Steelhorsecowboy]

Its interesting that so many veterans are commenting about the similarities between the military and prison. The military to me when I was enlisted was a shock. I didn't realize what losing my freedoms would feel like and it is not even close to prison. Later on went to OCS and became an officer. Most people really have no idea what it feels like to lose your freedom. After the military I became self employed just because I hated losing any little freedom at that point. Freedom and being loved by some and having someone to love is essential to my wellbeing.

[@kosipova01]

Makes them feel powerful.. I guess it’s human nature to show domination when they can get away with it... I’m sorry you had to deal with all that

[@elizabethgregory]

Good morning...Girl I'm wearing pajamas too.

[@antaine1916]

When I taught in prison, we were *strongly* encouraged to use last names and avoid first names. As it happened, like 1/3 of my students had the same first name just due to the popularity of that name in my student population, so that wouldn't have been that useful to distinguish people. That said, I'd call people "Mister so-and-so" and not just "so-and-so." The officers most often called inmates by their last names, but would occasionally call them "Mister so-and-so" as well. I never heard anyone called "inmate" or by their number (although their numbers were used for ID purposes). This is going to sound weird, but this particular prison had a strange...not "friendly"...but maybe "congenial" (maybe? "respectful"?) vibe on the part of the inmates and the officers both. One day, I was talking with an officer in my section while waiting for my students to show up (he was not the usual officer, but had picked up that guy's shift to sub for the day), and he was telling me about how he transferred to this prison from the really hard prison in the state, and it was the hardest thing for him to accept at first that people were actually being polite to each other rather than passively-aggressively trying to show disrespect through feigned politeness. At first, he'd give the most polite inmates a $#!tty attitude until other officers clued him in that that wasn't necessary; the guys were just trying to be polite and make the best of their time while they had to be there. Granted, the officers and inmates definitely weren't friends, but the officers and staff were always professional (that I saw), and conditions were humane. I know it's not like that all over, and that's not to say that my facility never had any problems or conflicts, but after listening to so many of your stories, I'm very glad to have worked in a place like that. I applaud you for raising awareness of bad conditions, and I hope it is heartening to you to know that there are at least some state facilities that would meet your standards of humane and human treatment.

[@johncalhoun7288]

I was a correctional officer in Georgia and Texas. Never worked at a female prison. I didn't try to go out of my way to make anybody's time harder than it already is. If you were respectful, I was respectful. A lot of officers forget that most people in prison will someday be back in the free world again. There are hard ass correctional officers and inmates. It only takes 1 mistake to send a person to prison. Love your videos and I'm glad that you are doing good now that you are out.

[@Miamiflow885]

we are taught that in training and by our training officers, calling a person by their number or last name. I was told its keeps us separate and not on a friendly level. if you become friends with a so called inmate, most of the time, they start asking for favors. I sucked at that job, because I like to talk to everyone, so I walked off the job. one last the, the officers would say a bunch of crap so people would hate being there, and would not wana come back

[@mikeynoel8990]

That’s not their job. They don’t run shit. They are baby sitters. They just make sure u are following the rules of somebody else. They don’t make the rules. But unfortunately most are power hungry weirdos and think they are better and they abuse their authority

[@garden5137]

So sorry you went through that! I bet they take ALL their frustrations out on inmates

[@dolaward]

When I was in a Army school every desk in the classroom had a number. Whatever desk you sat down in, the corresponding number was your name. 😀

[@katelynfraserr]

Pyjamas? Thats the cutest shirt ever!!! I love your videos, its so cool and interesting to get your insight of your experience! When I was studying corrections, we got to visit the inside of prison and it is definitely a place you don't want to go to... I admire how far you've come!

[@teaandcakeordeath]

The last three examples you gave are so messed up. Literally emotional torture. This is unacceptable and it makes me really fucking sad that our prison system is so deeply broken. No wonder so many people re-offend, they are literally leaving prison deeply traumatized.

[@ItsZoe16]

Did people in prison ever back away from fighting you because of your pregnancy?? Love your vids!

[@nicoleplzstfu]

Oooo great question I wnana know as well!!

[@JessicaKent]

During my pregnancy yes that did happen

[@ItsZoe16]

Jessica Kent that's really good to hear

[@gman5338]

Great job at opening the door to positive discourse with a view to bringing about change!! I get the reason why they call you “inmate” however. It’s all about your loss of freedom. That loss includes the loss of your identity. They do it in the military all the time. We all wear name tags but it’s common for higher ranks to call you “troop” or just by your rank. It’s use in the prison system I do support for a number of reasons.

[@JessicaKent]

Shhhhh guys...there's a cop in here 😂

[@gman5338]

Jessica Kent 🚨 WHOOP WHOOP THATS THE SOUND OF THE PO-LICE

[@jmorris4972]

Yeah I was in the military too but I don't support this bullshit with inmates...it's a power trip these loser guards are on. It's disgusting actually.

[@gman5338]

Julie Morris It’s a necessity in such an environment.

[@gman5338]

Julie Morris now that doesn’t mean I don’t agree that COs power trip. But, using the term inmate or an inmates number to identify them is part and parcel of your loss of freedoms. There are a host of other reasons I support its use.

[@michaeldoss6680]

When you get out of prison do they give someone else coming in to prison the number you had or do they retire that number

[@ktown8139]

Aaaahhh! I sent my comment prematurely, AGAIN! Ok, here’s the rest: 2. These kids also truly don’t believe that these consequences will actually happen to THEM. They don’t think that they will be the one to get caught, and often, they truly can’t/don’t understand how these consequences will hurt them or prevent them from having a productive, healthy, & happy life in the future. In fact, these are the same kids who don’t bother to listen to teachers, guidance counsellors, parents, etc, when they are told that they must take certain classes at the specific level, in order to get into their choice/program of University, College, Apprenticeships, Jobs, or anything else they might want for their future. Anyway, my point is to thank you for telling your story. By watching & listening to you talk about what happened to you & why, students tend to believe & remember that consequences are real. Prison is also very difficult & even when you get out, you are still not free & in control of your life. Hearing about how difficult things were for Randy after his relapse like being required to travel long distances without a vehicle, etc, teaches kids that life is not fair. Thanks for having the strength, honesty, & self awareness to talk openly to a large audience about difficult experiences, in order to help prevent others from making the same mistakes.