Labeled for Life | Our America with Lisa Ling | Full Episode | OWN

Lisa Ling investigates the case of a teenage boy who was sentenced to 20 years in prison and was registered as a sex offender for touching a girl's breast. Lisa tries to unravel what happened in this quiet Texas neighborhood nearly two decades ago. She'll track down witnesses, interview authorities and sift through court documents in hopes of answering the question: Did the punishment fit the crime?
Watch the follow-up episode, “Labeled for Life: 18 Months Later” (no sign-in required): bit.ly/2JCOhsf
(Original air date: August 7, 2012)
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Labeled for Life | Our America with Lisa Ling | Full Episode | OWN
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[@LaZainabou]

There are people who have raped and murdered people and spent less time in jail.

[@chicanapunkLA]

Yes its undeniably unfair

[@AnaDiaz-wz4cf]

The Dallas Police Officer who killed her neighbor in his own house got 10 years. Another police officer I can't remember where, kidnapped a waitress, assualted her in her car, beat her, sent pictures of her to another officer, she barely scaped and he got like 3-5 years🙄

[@Te3time]

Exactly

[@theduchessofessex6418]

But those people didn't violate probation

[@organizedmiss1571]

They didn’t violate Probation

[@lewthrasher4194]

This story brings me back to when I was young. A friend of mine had a girl say similar things. She almost ruined his life for false accusations. Good thing he had a solid alibi. She ended up saying she lied. Girls that do this should also be held accountable

[@dionnedunsmore9996]

I completely agree! My sons gf was getting weird, and idw this girl around him anymore (they were 16&17y.o. back then). She would call us in the middle of the nite asking if wed pick her up from the bar, she didnt want to stay there w her parents, they were drunk and she was scared. ... So id pick her up. But?? Where do i drop her off? I end up bringing her to my house but this couldnt continue. I asked my son if he was alrite ending things w her. He did. The next day she claims shes pregnant. I offer to take her to a pregnancy center for confirmation. He mother calls me, i requested to take her. She tells me shed charge my son w rape if i moved forward w this and if my son doesnt remain w her daughter. Things didnt go the way the mother had planned. My son did not catch charges, he did not remain in that relationship and the pregnancy was a lie. Theyre all grown and married and off living their lives w other people but-- these charges wouldve ruined his life in several ways. Smh theyre still acquaintances but he knows to stay clear of that bunch. Theyre not trustworthy and they lie

[@bethewalt7385]

​@@dionnedunsmore9996now that you're done raising kids perhaps you could learn to punctuate that which you write so it's intelligible and easier to read and make sense of.....hard to tell shed(a structure) from the contraction she'd, with no punctuation there's no difference...

[@davechristian7543]

was that friend you?

[@davechristian7543]

@@bethewalt7385 👾👾👾

[@andrem4877]

​@@bethewalt7385yeah maybe if you're a dimwit that doesn't know what context clues are you would think that they're talking about a shed.

[@donboo6692]

Should investigate the judge that gave him 20 years!

[@rhoduskal-cious3243]

I know! They should be stopped before destroying another family.

[@mariab2714]

My god, do those f....... have a lot to answear for! 'Hence why he Declined to be interviewed '!

[@BeGlamourlicious]

Why? He pleaded guilty. If the judge wouldn’t have convicted him he wouldn’t have done his job.

[@starrlynivywilliams]

@@BeGlamourlicious they in a way make you think you have to, or else it will be worse. Happened to me when I tried to get a cop off of me. I didn’t lay a hand on him since I actually suffer from anxiety and don’t like being touched. I was raped when I was young so I can’t stand being touched. I tend to run, or I puke Because it grosses me out.

[@almohvn33]

Absolutely. This is a horrible case. Just horrible! I think the county should pay for this!

[@mariec3527]

something is clearly wrong with this case 1: the police never interviewed or questioned the adults or the witnesses in the home 2: the girl might of been molested before at home & that's why she acted the way she did around travis 3: Travis is special needs & should be given special rights while being interrigated

[@evaknievel4449]

Sadly no, too many don't get a chance in the system and we have prisons full of societies most vulnerable now, our disabled. We are not suppose to shoot our wounded but we do. Sad for our nation that this happens at all in a great nation, it should never happen.

[@notthedoctor8621]

Maybe it was a way to deflect from the original assaliant.

[@ds8290]

I agree however, the moment you take a plea deal and the case does not go to trial, none of the evidence on his behalf gets used. He took a plea deal when he shouldn't have. Granted he had a mental issue and wasn't educated on it but for this reason there should have been some legal counsel appointed to him. It would have most likely went another way.

[@kayhogan3875]

The problem is every state has different laws! They really need to change that in the state of Texas or any other state that is like that. People same time for murder.

[@sarcasticallyrearranged]

D S he was assigned a public defender. The problem is that they're overworked, underpaid and will likely tell the defendant that if they go to trial, it could end up a longer punishment. A lot of people will take a plea because they can't afford to fight the charges. It also depends on what type of evidence backs up the charge.

[@carabiner7999]

His lawyer should be ashamed. EDIT: His Mother, on the other hand, is an absolute gem.

[@indigogirl5172]

How can the mother be a ‘gem’ when Travis has ADD, OCD, and ‘conduct disorder’? Those disorders have to do with lack of connection, abuse and/or neglect. Not saying the woman hurt Travis as a child…but something is not right in the paint. No one is looking at her role in raising her kid. Nor Travis in not following rules set by his probation. Maybe the lawyer had grounds to believe Travis had some guilt. There are multiple sides to this story. This documentary overwhelmingly is biased toward Travis and his mother. Just because the ‘victim’ recanted does not mean it never happened. Many victims are stigmatized and bullied into recanting. It happens all the time to children who report abuse.

[@livgrace8070]

@@indigogirl5172 agreed…

[@julikristof7949]

​@@indigogirl5172 It's absolute bs what you are saying.

[@mariecreativity9065]

@@indigogirl5172Those disorders have strong genetic associations. It doesn’t have to come from early abuse.

[@indigogirl5172]

@@mariecreativity9065 not ‘conduct disorder’ there is no genetic association with that. Children with conduct disorder have issues with lack of empathy and violating others’ rights. Nothing genetic about that. If conduct disorder is not treated early it leads to narcissism.

[@raissafrancisco7566]

What qualifications does a police officer have to write a report making predictions so specific and graphic?

[@Unconventionalgirl23]

So true

[@comolaves2]

That's what I said where is his duploma

[@slaiyfershin]

@@comolaves2 Takes way more than a diploma to make a recommendation for a sentence. Incompetent corrupt cop using the laws to fuel his own moral ego, but even more incompetent lawmakers and/or judge who let the situation happen in the first place.

[@comolaves2]

Right I always wonder how we where going to end up & it's right here been ignorant & careless...

[@universalpassage]

It sounded like he was pissed + wrote that honestly.

[@abic5468]

She doesn’t want to talk about it because she knows she ruined that mans life!

[@sharpedge3355]

Yes, true, but my problem with people like this is that they NEVER come forward to correct the initial lie or problem.

[@Bei2310]

thats what i was thinking!!!

[@Kayslays3]

Right!

[@MARKYPERTH]

@Kenya Hilton oh go away fool

[@madsdee7803]

Maybe she doesn't want to talk about it because she doesn't want to talk about it. He ruined his own life by touching a 10yr old (more than just her blouse too) and breaking parole.

[@mamabearp2301]

Ok, so the "victim" admitted to her father that she grossly exaggerated what happened and asked if she should come forward. Then when Lisa talks to her, she says "I don't want to relive that horrible day". Why? Because you sent someone to prison and ruined lives??

[@mihriomar5158]

So true felt so bad for this guy and his mom 😢

[@jeneestephens7620]

We're eww deer 53,

[@GoodGollyMissMolly763]

She knows she was lying and didn't want to fess up.

[@reneelemay6417]

She is too worried about herself and worried they would put her in jail for being a lier. I can't believe she thinks it is okay to let this guy live his life if he didn't do anything to her. Her father should have made her come forward.

[@shiro_kitten9298]

@@reneelemay6417 yea bc if she had in most courts that would've been contempt of court & lying under oath

[@mikaylac2047]

This guy’s got a case. He was inappropriately incarcerated, no witnesses interviewed, nothing. Like what?!?

[@Deenique16]

Imagine how many times this happens especially in Texas. The state of some of the most wrongful and erroneous convictions

[@nikolnolastname4473]

Even if evidence was fabricated there's nothing to be done. This is why it's better not to plead guilty. Once you plead guilty you sign away your rights.

[@cartergomez5390]

There are many people that are inappropriately incarcerated because the police harass them until they say they did it.

[@jessicarose8930]

personalty i dont think he did anything to the girl, i think the girl must have wanted attention but did not understand the consequesnce;s of her actions and story!!!

[@nataliaspamer9745]

@@nikolnolastname4473 exactly. that's where he went wrong. plead guilty -> no witnesses interviewed.

[@Jenn4rmblk]

Nothing can compare to a mother’s love. I pray that mother lives a long healthy life with her son.

[@whatever7727]

@Ladiekadie how do you know the victim didn’t lie? This was an accusation meanwhile there’s people who rape babies and get 7 yrs . I don’t think a child who was “accused” with no evidence or trial should be penalized for the rest of their life

[@gracesinson9886]

jkloklolll9lllĺl

[@22ergie]

@@whatever7727 He himself forfeited his right to trial when he took a plea bargain, and pled GUILTY, genius.

[@jessicawatson7360]

I mean that just can’t be true, there are mums who kill there kids.

[@22ergie]

@@jessicawatson7360 Who kill THERE kids, or THEIR kids? Please, if you want your comment to be taken seriously...

[@lovemiplants5003]

I can't stop sobbing.. This man was ripped from his family... spent 20 years in prison for something they don't know he did. So messed up.

[@positivevibesdiys496]

Happens all the time.

[@danielacastillo1386]

she's afraid to do time in prison?? but HE spend 16 years!!!

[@Thisismyaccount82]

Travis pleaded guilty because he didn’t understand he just wanted to go home.

[@ryangamba5304]

I agree he just wanted to go home.

[@autumnarmstrong3919]

This happens way to often to way to many people. Our system is such crap

[@joanlynch5271]

Normally the family makes a big stink when there is a miscarriage of justice.

[@theduchessofessex6418]

But did he understand that when he was allowed to go home he immediately went to hang out with more children.

[@Thisismyaccount82]

@@theduchessofessex6418 when? He got locked up.

[@luvvision]

What a horrible story. The system is beyond broken.

[@NicheAtNight]

@GR A it's not happening! Our government was screwed from infancy!

[@jamrock4470]

It's not broken, he is just white .

[@ossifkiki7574]

My molester was 45 when I was five years old and confessed when evidence show it was his sperm, he got 5 months and parole.

[@hillarybillary21]

Greed

[@barbaranorman2579]

@@ossifkiki7574 this happens disturbingly often. Many, many serial killers get light sentences even though there's evidence of guilt,the get out and they then go on to kill multiple people

[@hellokimmy9689]

This is so sad. I really wish Lisa would have been able to speak to his attorney who encouraged Travis to plead guilty! His attorney was 🗑and the culprit for what ended up happening to Travis!

[@rationallyruby]

You have to remember that it’s possible that the attorney didn’t have all the info as well. It’s possible he wasn’t aware of this mental issues and didn’t know that following or understanding the probation guidelines was gonna be an issue for him. Because ordinarily 5 years probation and no jail time would be a good deal even if you were innocent. But it just wasn’t well explained in this case.

[@juliejewels9208]

@@rationallyruby it's also possible he was a public defender who wanted the easiest resolve...not for his client but for his own caseload. This is really sad.

[@MrBobbo18]

He was on probation but couldn’t “ follow the rules “ so it’s definitely possible he would reoffend. He fuu it didn’t get 20 years off the get go. He was let go. How long before hanging around the same type of person he was convicted of violating?

[@viciouslady1340]

Usually public defender will have you plead out as they dont have time or funding for proper defense.

[@eunicestone838]

The more they get to plead guilty The less their work load is. They really don't care at all.

[@justmy2abelincolns272]

Very moving documentary. If he’s ever in Los Angeles, he’s got a job at my 5-star reviewed automotive repair shop. Entry level is fine with me with a positive and respectable person like him.

[@BS-dq1kz]

So kind of you. My husband spent 10 yrs in prison for something he did at 18 yrs old. He had emotional issues when he was a teenager because he found his dad dead at a young age. He was never hugged or told “I love you” by his mom even this day. I know some parents just don’t do those things but I tell my children daily. I adore my mother in law but she was also never told “I love you” by a parent and she can’t express her feelings well either. Anyway, my husband was addicted to Xanax and he robbed a store when it was closed. No one was there. He spent 6-7 years in prison for that crime and then after he was released for 6 months he was caught with a gun! He hasn’t changed fo the better yet at this point. So he had to go back to prison awhile longer. He was in prison, except for the 6 months he was out before the parole violation of the gun, from 19 to a month before his 30th bday. When he got out, we met and went on a date. Very long story short, we got married 3.5 months later! Lol. We’ve been married almost 14 years and we have three kids. Two children I already had before we got married but he has raised them as his own. He’s a wonderful dad and a fabulous husband. So, my whole point of explaining all of this is to tell you what someone did for him! He filled out a job application at a brand new company. On the app he wrote “Please give me a chance. I’ll work for free(however long it said I can’t recall)and prove myself”. The employer hired him. That was right when we began dating. The employer paid him $6.50 an hour. My husband even went without pay several times because company was new and struggling. We also struggled bad but my husband worked his butt off and stuck with this company. We even followed them a state below where we did live, to a bigger more populated area. There, my husband just kept working as hard as possible and he watched every dime for the company and the owner has told me so many times how much money my husband has helped the company save and how much he helped them make! That was 14 years ago when he started there. He worked every job and finally became GM. The company is a multimillion dollar profit a year company now. The initial owner sold to another man who is very rich. He said he would buy it but required my husband commit to staying as well fir a certain amount of time. Now, the new owner has asked my husband(our family)to move a little further south with a nice moving package. He has made my husband 15% owner to start up another company that does the same thing, in a new prime area. My husband knows he can build this new office/company and he will soon be making a lot more money than he already is. Of course, that’s if all goes as planned. Life happens I know. Either way, it is an amazing opportunity that’s been presented to us! It is a life changing opportunity really. With all that said, I am so grateful the owner so many years ago chose to give my husband a chance. If he hadn’t done that, I just don’t believe the company would e even made it as far as it has. My husband is truly amazing at his job. Everyone agrees and I’m very proud of him. He’s also very dedicated. He even slept in a tent all winter 10 years ago because he didn’t have the money to drive back and forth when the company first moved to another state. He was the one who got it up and running but for a few weeks he had nowhere to stay. He’s such a committed man and I’m so proud of him. But it all goes back to that application and the owner deciding he’d take a chance, a risk, on a convicted felon. My husband has since been pardoned. I just think it’s very kind of you to offer a job to someone like you did in your comment.

[@tundrawomansays5067]

@@BS-dq1kz Best wishes to you and your family on your continuing success. Please stay healthy, my friend!

[@Anna-Rose-]

@@BS-dq1kz, what a wonderful story! Congratulations, praying for your continued success in everything you do 🙏

[@justjonni9330]

He would be so motivated to learn from you! Amazing just for putting that out there… 👍🤘

[@TheNotBees]

I'll be sure not to patronize a business that hires predators who assault children.

[@yettismama6361]

Every kid deserves a mom like her. She's a sweetheart.

[@Treviso100]

It would seem that way from the show, but she’s the one who allowed him to plead guilty! He was a minor with special needs!

[@bethanyoneal5789]

Yeah, she sounds awesome. And her voice is soothing

[@brandidoyle4225]

The Innocence project should pick up this case and EASILY clear his name. I wonder why no appeals did as such.

[@Smaugette]

The apparent privilege for white folk must have ran out in his area.

[@lynnsalisbury9549]

The innocence project only seem to be concerned with people of color. More headlines that way.

[@Treviso100]

They aren’t going to mess around with a case like this when he’s a free man. They work at freeing prisoners who are innocent.

[@stephy21685]

If she let that man sit in prison being beaten and violated for 16 years because she lied she should sit in prison!!!

[@eileenhuss9915]

Or go to Hell! I'm sorry I'm just 😠 🤬 😡 angry.

[@madsdee7803]

She didn't let him sit in prison. He let himself sit there after he broke parole (he got his sentence for touching her inappropriately based on a court case (and not just select things said by his biased family members)). If Ted Bundy's family were allowed to re-write history complete with emotive music...omg.

[@stephy21685]

@@madsdee7803 he violated probation on a charge that was her lie. So yes she did.

[@amina-pr8xt]

Definitely

[@barbaranorman2579]

@@madsdee7803 the JUSTIC system shafted him big time. They said he could go HOME if he took the plea deal, which he very probably didn't even understand. SHE lied, the POLICE didn't do their JOB, and the COURTS railroaded him, so HOW is it HIS fault

[@nameless592]

What a handsome man. And his mother what a wonderful caring mother. Wishing them all the best.

[@janrees4887]

Yeah, because clearly beauty is a virtue and therefore he deserves leniency. 🙄

[@alinamorov7075]

@Asphincter says what? did you watch the whole story? Did you see how he was given parole and then broke it by hanging out with kids when he knew he shouldn't? Travis' actions are what put him in prison, and his appearance or demeanor mean nothing. You can go to death row and find the kindest soft spoken people you'll ever meet, it does not erase their prior actions and the harm they had done

[@giveback]

@@alinamorov7075 Exactly as his mother should have had him on lockdown! He should not have been hanging outside!

[@giveback]

@@janrees4887 Facts beauty rules the world until they really mess up. 😑

[@juliadavis6167]

@@alinamorov7075 He had the mind of a 12 year old. What is so complicated about understanding that?

[@mel505mel1978]

This is so disturbing and heartbreaking! Makes you wonder how many Travis‘s are sitting in our prisons?! Horrible!

[@helixmoore7636]

There are many. Too many.

[@MaxItUpwithMarta]

Many people are imprisoned and they are innocent.

[@mel505mel1978]

@@MaxItUpwithMarta Yes, I know! Very sad!!!

[@angelafuentes5022]

Right smh . . And the ones that actually aren't innocent get out faster. . Smh

[@AliceA333]

A LOT. Since DNA has come out, MANY prisoners have been freed, imagine the cases where no DNA was recovered?? Waaaaay more, because those people couldn't even be ruled out by blood type.

[@rookincharge2780]

His mom is so patient. And the way she guides him is amazing.

[@magnoliabranca5149]

His mother is ao sweet and the way she speaks so kind so loving God bless her wherever you are lady you’re wonderful 💖

[@nadiasven4771]

Your justice system is so disturbingly bad and unfair.

[@SolorockinOne]

It’s that way because it’s for profit.

[@sarahalbers5555]

Just look at how long Epstein avoided justice. Disturbing and disgusting.

[@vegvixxxen829]

@@sarahalbers5555 and the ringleader just made $30 million dollar bail

[@laurakobetich9809]

You are right

[@ciera91]

@@vegvixxxen829 right

[@crayCray420]

Lisa Ling is amazing.

[@mhrgall]

I came here to say that :-)

[@captainhml3868]

Lisa Ling is so good. Travis's mother's voice is so soothing.

[@keishacalixte]

Lisa is such a good journalist. She’s so unbias

[@junopierre2988]

Yes that’s why I adore her

[@NormaJean951]

It’s unbiased

[@keishacalixte]

@@NormaJean951 Thankyou

[@sweetp658]

@@keishacalixte you’re very polite. It’s commendable.

[@retrochickt7947]

That's why I subscribed and liked the video. I'm also a journalism major.

[@bokani79]

Lisa Ling and John Oliver deserve awards for exposing the atrocities of the divided states of america.

[@carrielopez1728]

I totally agree 👍

[@amandal7684]

That grocery shopping trip they took together is so precious.

[@bobbijokramm955]

Oprah knew what she was doing hiring Lisa Ling‼️💯💕

[@jacquelynnjones1372]

so sad, Travis seems so sweet. I was molested at 13 & never pressed charges. So sad that someone like him had 20 years stolen from him when others are hurting children horrifically. May God’s blessings shower him as he adjusts to his life. 🦋

[@brittanybolden2143]

The fact that the mother of the victim “didn’t recall” what took place but still believed Travis should have went to prison is total bs to me! A great portion of this mans life was thrown away. You don’t get to pull that card. tell us what he did to deserve that type of punishment. 🙄

[@prettyuglysupernovarudegur2310]

Exactly I don’t understand how she don’t remember any details :-/ this is such BS I’m a survivor of child sexual abuse and I locked up my abuser & Thing don’t add up for me , what mum said and didn’t said

[@madsdee7803]

Maybe she didn't want a TV camera in her face. I wouldn't want one in my face either making my daughter's abuser a victim.

[@barbaranorman2579]

@@madsdee7803 did you NOT hear SEVERAL people actually accuse the GIRL OF LYING, or what she said to her FATHER, or that he ONLY admitted guilt so he could GO HOME.

[@kinshasaharris4758]

I feel like the mom knew her child was being molested by a family member and chose not to do anything so to clear her conscience she's saying she believes what her daughter says. That mother is EVIL!!! and should be charged as well for reckless parenting and endangering a minor.

[@dieudon28]

His mom is amazing 👏

[@rainnmoon114]

She really held him down.

[@lalaland5332]

For REAL ❤️

[@mrsc4760]

Absolutely not Quite the contrary

[@Dreabz617]

The reason the woman who accused Travis gets so upset when the topic is brought up and doesn’t want to “talk about it” is called guilt. She knows she put away an innocent man. Smh. I wish we had an update on Travis and his mom so we could help them out

[@rationallyruby]

In her defense she was 10! We don’t know what happened. It could have been a misunderstanding, made up, or perhaps it did happen. Either way she was a child too.

[@social_currency_spender]

@@rationallyruby she’s a ten year old that ruined a life.

[@PhotoJeticPoet]

@@rationallyruby 10 years old is old enough to know better than to lie about something like that also 16 years later and she won't even talk about it to save face

[@helixmoore7636]

She needs time behind bars.

[@jacquelineflood3244]

Yeah I wish his mother got a new court assessment....I believe the USA state should B sued for that young man suffering ... I believe the young woman felt jilted or loss of face and wanted to get even as the young man said he pushed her off, maybe she felt badly treated, I doubt after she expected him to do 20 years yeah he was beaten badly in prison, his poor mother did not deserve such fate... I await Justice for Travis...I doubt the young women has peace of mind....

[@Greenway1234]

This just broke my heart as a mom.😢

[@yellowmelancholy4875]

I know. Of course we worry about our daughters, but nobody ever talks about the fear we have for our sons😞 this would destroy me if my son were to ever be in this situation.

[@juliewagner8240]

Then you hear about murders who get out in 5-10 and kill again right away! Just not fair for this man.

[@lindalambert9802]

God bless Lisa Ling for doing this episode and bringing out these unfortunate circumstances this family faced so courageously!

[@comolaves2]

I thought it was.gonna help but he didn't even got a job or out of the half way house. Just to know someone misfortune

[@DanielleFoster.]

I'm hoping the show producer's give the DA their files on this case. And then I'd like to think that'll carry a lot of weight and get him off the registry. 🙏

[@mariabeverly8263]

He is soooooooo blessed to have a Mom like her 🙏🏽

[@searan5130]

That sentence was totally disproportionate .....

[@TheBombMaddieBerry]

This is a cruel world if you're different. Be kind to one another. Travis I will pray for you.

[@user-xl9xt3vp9j]

That's absolutely true. My son gets bullied and I appreciate at least that he comes to me to talk about it

[@worthyyou923]

I’m just watching this thinking “this is the sweetest man ever...and gosh he loves his mom”...I’d be so proud of any one of my 3 sons if they grew up as kind as him.

[@SP-cd3wo]

This is a perfect example of when mitigating circumstances should have been taken fully into consideration.

[@sadiej3836]

Oh man, I wish we could have a "Where Are They Now?" on Travis!

[@courtneyveatch4207]

Sadie, there's a link under the description of the video titled '18 months later. I myself haven't watched it but maybe it's what you're looking for.

[@Denisellx]

@@courtneyveatch4207 y y y 7

[@Denisellx]

@@courtneyveatch4207 e 676273313051195 para 7 e 7

[@dianakenealy8573]

@@courtneyveatch4207 thx for that info. Watching the update right now on Travis. I had to stop watching for a minute to say thx and yes I hope it ends to be what Travis deserves and that be to I hope have this case looked over by someone who can help him. I believe he didn't do this crime. Now I'll head to finish watching the 18 months later update.

[@dianakenealy8573]

Watching that 18 months later about travis . as I'm writing this. hope all is looked at again and goes the way it should. He deserves to be free not as he was made out to be. He's been treated unfair I think.

[@davethemagnificent2576]

I feel bad for him and his mother. He was just a kid who crossed paths with a lying child, and a corrupt legal system. If his mother wouldn't of been there for him, he would've never made it out of prison alive. I can't imagine the hell he went through and to just be wrongfully convicted for that, would be hell within itself.

[@hollyobaby6949]

@Jesus Saves because she did lie about her age and there were witnesses there saying nothing of the such happened. The girl’s father ignored the wrong doings of his own child (which I can understand because that’s his little girl) but she also came out saying that she hadn’t been non-consenting. Also he was a special needs child that was still under the age of seventeen. His public defender threw his client away by recommending a plea deal that sent a 17 year old to prison for nearly two decades. Now he has to carry around the label of a sexual offender.

[@wednesday8397]

I feel deep sympathy for Travis and his mom and I'm so sick of the justice system taking the easy way out instead of doing their jobs

[@KultureKlashLLC]

This is why parents must keep a tight "leash" on children who are not at full mental capacity. I have an 18 year old with Autism; he is allowed to go anywhere he wants (legally), but you best believe I'm in tow. He doesn't have any behavioral issues, however, with undue influence, I am 100% terrified of what he may get into. Therefore, unless it's with dad or myself as chaperones, it ain't happening!

[@Thisismyaccount82]

Ok I know how you feel. My daughter has an intellectual disability, borderline personality disorder, anxiety and attachment disorder I have been stabbed, punched but she is my daughter and I know she doesn’t mean it and everything was going fine had in home support but then all of sudden she refuses to come home and now they are setting up a home with support workers she is 16years old. She has been in hospital 6 times in the last week and a half. Where when she is home it was once a week and a month before that, I just don’t get where it’s ok and not one person is saying go home. I do and she blocks me! I’m heartbroken!

[@katrinarose72]

At some point you have to cut the leash or your kids are not going to know how to navigate life when you pass

[@tenikatucker8858]

Yes I have a 19 year old daughter with developmental disability due to stroke I am so scared of what can happen if I'm not with her I never let her out my sight unless it's at home

[@tomaszwyszkowski2253]

Better be safe than sorry

[@tricebx718]

@@katrinarose72 not if you have special needs children . He will never be like other people . She should try and get him in supportive housing so that he is linked to resources if she should past

[@dadycreations100]

He's been serving 16 years for a crime that supposedly was committed in the house of a little girl, and the little girl along with her parents were ever interviewed by the authorities? It's hard to believe.

[@Treviso100]

The so-called victim was interviewed, as well as her parents, but no one at the house where it took place was interviewed. The reason: Travis pleaded guilty. And his mother let him!

[@Teenywing]

Travis is a beautiful kid. I hope he’s doing well and finds happiness.

[@ninjavandenberge9670]

I love Lisa Ling’s work 👍

[@Jayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy1]

He's such a good spirit that you can feel it through the screen

[@tanyalb9936]

This 10 year old had developed a infatuation with Travis that day and was dejected when Travis pushed her away. This is not unusual and seems to become worse with such people as time goes by. We here from the father now that she wanted to come forward but was fearful of lying. Yes I said lying as it seems so obvious that is exactly what she did. Travis has never changed his statement and even his medical provider never saw any indication of such behaviour. He has witnesses that made statements stating nothing inappropriate happen on that day. Just think about it, this is not the first time by no means that an innocent person has been wrongly accused especially if they have as many issues as Travis has. He is a positive young man and I wish him the future he so desires and deserves. What a wonderful mother he has and I wish the future and desires also to be fulfilled.

[@riverstone9005]

I'm wondering. Can Travis and his mom make a civil suit against the girl who wrongfully accused him?

[@Treviso100]

No, she was just a child

[@lesliegordon8780]

This story broke my heart. The police did not do their job interviewing those who were there at the “scene” and his attorney did him an injustice advising him to plead guilty. Come on …I hope and wish great things for Travis in the future. He clearly has an angel of a mother. She is so loving and patient. Ms. Ling conducted more time and energy and research for this case than law enforcement and the judicial system combined. Thank you for bringing this story to light.

[@Serenityfor1]

His mother is a trained mental health professional. She knows a lot about what she’s talking about.

[@maryescobar8923]

Diane you are an amazing woman and mother I felt your pain trough this documentary I really hope you and your son find justice and peace.

[@Serenityfor1]

She really is as kind as she appears in this video. I worked with her years ago and she is very kind.

[@universalpassage]

20 years is an insane sentence for a mentally challenged person. It sounds like he comprehends himself as a very young child and needed counseling help. I’m happy he has his mom to help him. He seems like a very radiant person.

[@StasiaReviewsStuff]

Why didn’t she interview his attorney? Good counsel would have evaluated the evidence and recommended to go to trial. And even if found guilty I bet he would have served less time than he did.

[@comolaves2]

That just what I said why??? And the prosecuted guilty as well didn't show his face. But you know KARMA will hit them in the butt.

[@beth-bi9yv]

I wonder if they couldn't afford to go to trial. I feel like a lot of people who take plea deals do it, simply because they can't afford monetarily to go to court.

[@camerontaylor7471]

@@beth-bi9yv they talked about this around 20 min in... he pleaded guilty because his attorney said he can go home... after being charged he was put on probation, he then broke his probation by hanging out with neighborhood kids, that’s when he was sentenced to 20 years... his attorney was court appointed,which explains why he got such low quality representation.

[@labellaxia7853]

The attorney probably don't want to embarrassed himself.

[@alinamorov7075]

@@camerontaylor7471 True. But his lawyer was correct. When he pleaded guilty he was given parole and no prison time. It was Travis own actions that put him in prison, not the lawyers lack of knowledge of court proceedings

[@leiajiang7877]

The mom is so responsible, loving and loyal.

[@kristinahall6575]

Travis has such an child like innocence to him. And he is so handsome thank God for second chances

[@MysticGwen]

Lisa Ling has such a non judgmental way of portraying her research in these mini docs.

[@pamelaphelan4144]

To me... it sounds as if this case was NOT investigated thoroughly. That’s very sad & frustrating 😡

[@sbeaflove4891]

So Sad..

[@herstory1012]

The Travis story broke my heart, the worst 💔 miscarriage of justice. And America has the cheek to interfere with other countries.

[@chrissefiffipix6509]

I would not have let my ten year old daughter out like that. She is just a little Girl- no need to socialize with teenagers!

[@michaeld.williamsiii9026]

Right that is deeply true....😐😑😐

[@lailakai1475]

One of the older kids was babysitting. It’s not her fault she was around them.

[@AliceA333]

@@lailakai1475 She didn't have the kid around anyone dangerous, she told her dad she wants to tell the truth now but is afraid of going to jail for lying.

[@Deenique16]

These are the things that I wondered when my 7 year old male cousin was allowed to stay out until. 5 am etc etc always shocked me.

[@jeske100]

Travis had bad legal representation. The sad thing is that poor people often get railroaded like that by our criminal justice system. If Travis and his mom had had $100k of "loose change" to spend on a tough lawyer back then, things would have worked out very differently. Sad story!

[@michaelmcclure7758]

There is nothing like a Mother's love. Always remember that.

[@amoshtael1844]

Lisa Ling, thank you for being a warrior for TRUTH! You really make a difference! Praying for Travis ❤️🙏🏽🌹

[@Yazzo02]

This is an important topic. When you have a mentally challenged kid, boy or girl, and they LOOK normal on the outside, they too can experience sexual desire and they most often don't know what it is exactly or how to correctly express it. Even when you teach them, as I did with my brother. But what do you do when a 20year old man has the mental capacity of a 12 year old. He can't be with people his age group because they will most likely use and abuse him. U can only hope that he meets someone similar to him and even them u must always watch over them.

[@tenikatucker8858]

This is always the answer that I give people who often ask me about my 19 yr old daughter

[@carolmk3114]

Even if he did it 16 years is excessive. There was no justice. The JUSTICE SYSTEM FAILED. The Mom is right there is an imbalance in the sentencing process. It needs to be more standardised.

[@christinavarvakis5523]

Watching this is physically hurting my heart.

[@aileenquiroz4453]

What?! Police lying on a police Report? 😒

[@2009gradcu]

That never 👎 happens !! 🥴🥴

[@aileenquiroz4453]

@@2009gradcu well, let me tell you a few stories

[@AmericanTeacher-USA]

That's why the subject ALWAYS needs to rewrite these and force them to be included in the original, usually false, "report." These are referred to as "supplementals." The "truth" is better discernable when both sides are thus documented.

[@aileenquiroz4453]

@@AmericanTeacher-USA does the lay person know how to get this to happen.

[@ivyrussia5831]

what an IRONIC, OXYMORON!

[@sophiasmith288]

This court system is destroying people's lives!!! Just unfair.

[@troods8110]

I believe he's telling the truth.. he just doesn't "fit" ya know? He seems like such a gentle soul.. praying his life gets better. His Mom is such a lovely lady. God bless you all. Is there anyway to get an update on Travis' story??

[@really9791]

please don't let the appearance that people show you be your sole reason for trusting them cute and cuddly can also be very dangerous and very few monsters look like actual monsters

[@alinamorov7075]

Looks mean nothing, we don't judge people based on their appearances but based on their actions. He wasn't sentenced to 16 years for touching that girl. He was given parole and broke it by having contact with children. Then he was sent to prison.

[@troods8110]

I'm not someone who judges anyone on appearances... did you actually listen??

[@alinamorov7075]

@@troods8110 first off, you edited your comment. Second, your comment still judges Travis superficially without looking at the facts of his situation. He pleaded guilty, his defence was quite literally just his friends saying that they don't think he'd do something like that, and when told by the court to STOP hanging out with minors he still went and was around minors. I'm not saying I know for a fact he did that, I'm just saying just because Travis "doesn't look like the type" doesn't mean he's innocent.

[@kimhancock5965]

@@alinamorov7075 totally agree with you!!! Sure this segment makes it look like hes just an innocent,underdeveloped young man but I'm not convinced. The "victim" sounds shady but why would she just suddenly start screaming don't touch me like that??? Idk what the truth is but if I had to guess I'd say he was"curious" and may have touched her inappropriately and she exaggerated what happened but who's to say,we weren't there and truth be told probably nobody will ever know what really happened.

[@barbaramcdaniel463]

Police ruined another life. We pay them for that, you know.

[@gabrielagallegos9669]

Justice system broken doesn’t work especially for disabled colored people, minority’s and poor people

[@kristinakepler4234]

In the justice system the only thing that matter is green money

[@ashpooh1231456]

FACTS

[@sarahalbers5555]

And folks who can't afford expensive high powered attorneys. The system sucks.

[@michaeld.williamsiii9026]

Right this is true as well...😐💯👏🏽 So well said @Gabriela. This is sad in a lot of ways. I feel bad for Travis’s mom. 😔🥀😔

[@reavleeful]

Yes indeed and it is documented but nothing is ever done

[@ivanbuendia6974]

He should sue her and the state !

[@aimeem9867]

I found this story very touching as my own son has special needs. He's a genius in his own right, has no violent tendencies yet the fear of such an incident of occuring brought me to tears. The relationship between Travis and his mom is very sweet. Reminds me of myself & my son's own.

[@runicspyder]

Lining things up is a sign of autism especially in early childhood. I've seen this time and time again in my fellow autistics. We are also more likely to be accused of things (well young men especially) that didn't happen and/or to be abused. As a sexual assault survivor and a disabled woman i think Travis deserves JUSTICE

[@JulietteKernDiamond]

I'm dying for an update I hope so badly he's doing well.

[@chelseaaltuna4175]

My exact thought. He reminds me of my 10 year old son. It’s a shame autism wasn’t diagnosed as well even 10 years ago. My cousin was recently diagnosed at 15 and he had obvious signs, to anyone with even limited experience with autism, since he was a toddler.

[@christinedoner1117]

Lisa please do a report on how devasting it has been for people with health related long term chronic pain with CDC govt guidelines passed in 2016. Who need opioids. They are treated like abusers and addicts and have lost their civil rights. Lots of people out there who need different regulations for them. Please help as it's a big problem that most people don't know. For

[@keroppi6876]

bc you’ll become an abuser and an addict moron

[@JulietteKernDiamond]

Kratom is great for chronic pain and is legal; for now!

[@AdADglgmutShevanel]

My greatest fear is being falsely accused of doing something, and having no way to prove my innocence.

[@veronicamoss8582]

wow my cousin murdered someone ( a family member (nana) ) served 6 years .this is horrible. i hate Texas. I live in Texas

[@charlieatmiddleton]

So what is the outcome on Travis's situation now? Is Travis back with his mum? Is Travis working? Has Travis been removed from the S.O.R? Have they reopened the case or is anyone helping or trying too?

[@luvdaturtles]

Does anyone else find it odd that his friends and the victims father had no clue he went to jail?? Some friends when he just disappears and no one wonders why or where did he go?

[@SP-cd3wo]

Yes!! Bothered me right away and not only that but that they didn’t even follow up. The “friends” who knew and believed in his innocence failed him royally. They all just went about life. So messed up!

[@user-vw7bx9ll8n]

That bothered me too. Nobody even gave a f*** or followed up. The selfishness of some people

[@ecloguespabloneruda8319]

I find it strange as well, I believe there are many darker secrets in his story that he is hiding from the cameras.

[@Smaugette]

@@user-vw7bx9ll8n maybe they felt some kind of way because he pleaded guilty. They might have thought "well, he really did do this" so they removed themselves. I know if my friend pleaded guilty to something like that... it's over.

[@a.christian9647]

Right, and shouldn't it have been on the local news or newspaper.

[@rhoduskal-cious3243]

A mother’s love. Diana and Travis, May God bless you to carry on with peace and more happy days. Sending loads of love!

[@virgomoons]

He reminds me of the guy in forestgump like you can tell he's the nicest person that he didn't do the crimes they said he did. You can tell he would never do that.

[@barbakanka]

the biggest faul of the family is that they are too nice. They try to stay positive, Travis is not complaining, because of his mental situation he is always smiling and so the authorities are acting like "eeeh whatever, he is too stupid to know what happened to him, look at him, he looks allright". absolute disgrace of a corrupt juridicial system

[@user-xl9xt3vp9j]

Yes that's exactly right

[@mpumin7785]

Oh my God this is so sad😭 Travis is so lucky to have a mother like that. God bless them both❤

[@SolorockinOne]

Sounds like the police and prosecutors wanted him put away. These things happen far to often.

[@tinahuttner7280]

It actually sounds like the state gets off on putting people like Travis away,those people should just go to hell😠

[@ladydede88]

Of course they get paid for prisoners

[@b-genspinster7895]

Prosecutors need convictions to win re-election and to keep their jobs. A lot of government lawyers are there because they can’t cut it in private practice but there are those who want to do what is right and being a prosecutor is noble if they do.

[@mirage_sr]

It is sad how life can go so wrong and twisted. Don't you wonder what a 10 year child was doing with teenagers out at night?!

[@Kelly-jn4cp]

THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT I THOUGHT!!!!

[@lailakai1475]

One of the older kids was babysitting. That’s why she was around.

[@1shoupfamily]

Probably a younger sibling of one of the older kids.

[@pamelashaffer5108]

You know, i am a so called victim, i call myself a survivor. So it should be obvious how i feel about folks messing with kids! But this case is really upsetting to me. One of my Friends was accused by a then 15 year old and I know this girl lied. I cant stand what happens to folks who never done a thing! The system needs ti get it right!!!!

[@joanmerrill4779]

I will say that all this evil Travis has suffered. The so victim and the rest of his tormenters will pay for their deeds.

[@knec2443]

This is so sad and scary!!!.... now I’m so afraid of having people’s kid’s in our home.

[@mimig7737]

You shouldn't , you can't control others people kids

[@camiba6773]

My mom never have us go over people s house and reverse. You never know what can happen. She also told us never to touch any one and never allow anyone to touch us. That was 30 years ago. Parents have to still be vigilant

[@jessie420straya]

Yehh it's a set up . Good thinking

[@marcianaanthony1798]

U know, I have a 12 year old boy no play dates

[@virg0_lem0nade]

wow y'all are UNHEALTHY levels of PARANOID 😂😂😂😂

[@amoshtael1844]

Thank you, Lisa Ling. You are such a star and a light in our world. I pray that Travis finds fulfillment and justice.

[@ellebelle8515]

Everyone part of the so-called Texas departments of justice that put Travis away for 20 years should lose their license. This is shameful.

[@meekmeek8998]

His spirit is so bright.

[@doglover4195]

How can that victim live with herself!! She should have to do one and a half the time Travis did for lying! Also getting his name cleared! Horrible.

[@lovefor7761]

@YogiLie Well she’s not 10 anymore and even when she was a teenager she could have told the damn truth! She’s ruthless!!!

[@Deenique16]

@@lovefor7761 To be honest I’m sure she dealt with her own guilt . She probably was scared, afraid etc

[@lovefor7761]

@@Deenique16 To be honest I don’t care. She put an innocent man in prison.

[@donotfeedaftermidnight]

He was just a kid too and spent time in jail for something she lied about. Why shouldnt she at least come clean or get something for lying. Disgusts me that girls lie and put boys in jail for years and ruin their lives and nothing happens to them when its proven they lied.

[@alinamorov7075]

@@donotfeedaftermidnight He was old enough to know right from wrong otherwise they could have easily proven that in court. And he not only did what he did to that girl but then he broke parole by hanging out with children when he shouldn't.

[@entrepreneurpodcasttv1239]

The biggest issue with our legal system is the perpetuation of wasted resources on false cases, causing true victims to go unaided. Take the profit out of the legal system and that will end. Any system that requires money to use, cannot legitimately be called a justice system. As long as money is involved it will be nothing more than a business, with motivation to ever expand its pool of customers.

[@joannemates6367]

A 20 year sentence for a crime that was hardly violent. That is INSANE!! A young man with various disabilities, who is clearly not mentally his actual age, which wasn’t taken into consideration. And a trial that never happened!! This injustice just KILLS ME!!! I hope David goes on to bigger and brighter things and he forges out a beautiful life for himself. Cheers, from Country Victoria. Australia. ✌️✌️✌️✌️

[@letsdothis3332]

Why did this series ever stop. I was obsessed with the Our America series

[@merncat3384]

I'm sick of them calling the little girl who *lied* a "victim" - Travis is the REAL VICTIM!!

[@showmercytoothers4059]

why dont they punish the liars?

[@florence1395]

Exactly! He’s definitely 💯 nor guilty..

[@mixie6650]

Because it would "deter actual victims".. ruined his life

[@ceciliaramos2280]

Oh well if it deters actual victims I don’t care. Punish the liars.

[@basicbecky6306]

When the "victim" says that "Travis pleaded guilty"... And thats all she had to say about the situation... Sounds to me like she is blaming HIM for what happened to him... Like saying, well he's the one who said he did it.... She seems very guilty herself.

[@amina-pr8xt]

But she will get her karma, no question.

[@redsloane879]

Absolutely!!

[@XxItalianVampPrinces]

She doesn’t want to talk about it because she lied about it. Travis’s story hasn’t changed one bit and I honestly believe it. Plus, why didn’t the police interview the others that where there or even the adults that where there? Something definitely is fishy on that.