Life As a Teenager in Juvenile Detention | Behind Bars: Documentary Interview

In this sit-down interview inside a juvenile detention center, teenager Paradise discussed the difficult issues she'd faced in life that ultimately landed her behind bars. Paradise's story was one that included family turmoil and depression, something many of the kids at the detention center also shared. During the interview, she also discussed her dad being in and out of jail, constantly moving from place to place as a child, running away from home several times and also admitted she sometimes felt safer inside detention than she did at home. Her comments were a reminder that for many kids, life on the outside was a daily struggle to survive.
Update: Once released from detention, Paradise has not been back in the system.
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[@confessionsofareformedmormon]

This girl doesn't need jail. She needs a stable, healthy place to grow up. It makes me sad and angry that the adults in her life let her down and also the system. Where are we as a society that we put kids like this in jail??? 🤬

[@CalamariProductions]

Sad indeed @Susan Brandel. It’s important we look at these systems as a whole and recognize what’s truly in the best interest of a child. There are many good people who work in these systems trying to make a difference, but in cases like Paradise, there were heartbreaking issues that were never addressed early in her life and she sadly paid the price for it due to no fault of her own. We hope voices like hers help everyone understand the magnitude of what so many young people go through, and why these kids are so deserving of our time, love and resources. ❤️

[@lperez229]

@@CalamariProductions I have been watching the videos you have posted to youtube for the past couple weeks. After watching quite a few episodes, all I could think about is how these kids could be helped. How could these kids be helped before they reach getting into trouble. Trying to look at the whole big picture, there are so many parts to consider with the lives of kids in these situations. I feel like there has to be some way to help them not only when they get in trouble but before. I certainly dont have the answer but I wish there was some way I could help. To the people making these videos, I want to say thank you and I am grateful to you for what you are doing with these kids. Also to the facilities trying to help them. I can see the genuine care from the staff. God bless.

[@pierregrobbelaar9116]

I also had a bad upbringing.but i gave most up when i turned 30.I stopped drugs etc.But for a girl of her age it's not easy.Specially with no help.My friends all left me but i got out myself.Her friends are a bad influence on her.Get her a proper home and good education and she will be a top notch lady when she grows up.I really hope for the best for her.She's young and still has time for a bright future.

[@justinmartin4662]

She said her mom is great, and yet she runs away and robs houses. So basically her parents are having a hard time and she’s out causing all kinds of trouble and stealing. There’s usually restitution, that her parents probably would have to pay for. Sounds like she’s the most unstable part of the household.

[@edendickens7254]

@@justinmartin4662 do you know why she got the ankle monitor ??..

[@MrsReggieRegg]

My mom used to kick me out the house and then report me as a runaway. And if I would call a friend to pick me up she would threaten them with the police which made them scared to pick me up. I wonder if she wanted me to roam the streets alone at night at 16yrs old? And I wasn't doing anything like this girl and there's no point in asking her about it cuz she always develops a case of amnesia

[@avagalloway5071]

I just wanna give her a hug I feel terrible that she's here she doesn't need this she just needs love

[@gracefarrimond9383]

She honestly seems like a sweet girl. She doesn’t need prison she needs mental health treatment and loving people around her.

[@stevensgirl85]

she needs positive role models and a good church to attend youth group and be a kid.

[@jenniferdreves823]

That’s what I’m feeling. She can succeed! She needs positive role models. I pray for you sweet girl’

[@alisaurus8254]

Ya this hurts my heart I know there’s tons of cases like this too it’s so sad

[@THETITANSFOREVER]

@@stevensgirl85 why push religion? She just needs loving people & a good support system, if she chooses religion then yeah but why force it down someone’s throat?

[@wastedtalent666]

I partly agree with you but from experience I know that being there will make her appreciate being home you know?

[@franklinturtle9849]

This girls story is tragic and heartbreaking. It's not her fault. I don't sense a single ounce of malice in her. I want to give her a hug, and say "It's not your fault." I would adopt that girl and give her a father figure. Poor girl never had a chance because her parents are incompetent and abusive.

[@johnbastiani9673]

Hi calamari. It's another very bad family situation. Even when she is released she goes back to the situation that put her in there in the first place. I wish there was a magic wand to solve there problems. Thankyou for highlighting her plight I can only hope all goes well for her.

[@CalamariProductions]

Thanks @John Bastiani. You’re right - there’s unfortunately no magic wand. Hopefully, stories like this can help everyone see the realities of what some kids go through even BEFORE they enter the system. It all goes hand in hand.

[@AerialJules]

Basically everyone in this girl's life failed her. Also whoever the 20 year old that slept with her... that's statutory rape

[@Kirsten_is_cursed10]

Yeah, I think that’s what she’s referring to when she says she was raped.

[@huskylovinmom9379]

So sad that so many kids problems are caused by parents that don't deserve children, can't handle them. I thank the ones who are doing this documentary & trying. Hang in there Paradise, you deserve more than life is given you.

[@jackiemarshall3711]

Why do doctors always want to label people with adhd and bipolar and wants to put them on meds. Most children my grandson included have anger issues from something that happened in their life usually something that happened in the home. Yes therapy works but only if you be honest and want to work through the issues. Really all you need is someone that will listen and not judge. I hope this young girl and everyone that has and are going through these things will get better.

[@CalamariProductions]

very poingnant comments @Jackie Marshall. Thanks for taking the time to watch her story and post such thoughtful words. Appreciate it.

[@annetteslife]

That is a very good point

[@Samurai78420]

She is very articulate and unreasonably cute. Would be awesome if she can stay away from the prison system.

[@ohfkarely8355]

Unreasonably cute?

[@andrealattimore7938]

Me and my little sis was the same type of kids expect my mother was a drug addict and my sperm donor never gave a shit I feel sorry that kids like you have to grow up in this type of situation but remeber everything you went through as a child will make you so much stronger as an adult try to learn from your mistakes don't allow people to make you or anyone in this kind of situation feel less than cause your not iam living proof my heart goes out to you also sadly due to the life of an x drug addict and that fast life drugs sadly took my best friend hardest thing I've ever lived through

[@CalamariProductions]

@Andrea Lattimore - we are so sorry to hear about what you’ve been through. Your words are very powerful and hopefully can help others understand they’re not alone. We really appreciate your willingness to tell your story in such an honest and painful way. As you say, that pain can lead to strength later in life. We’re thankful you watched Paradise’s story and took the time to comment. Greatly, greatly appreciated.❤️

[@angelakim639]

My heart breaks for you Andrea 💔 I've seen my son lose both of his best friends to drugs, and my 25 year old daughter has lost many in her circle; the last one she lost was 3 weeks ago. Its such a hard thing to deal with. You take care of yourself hon!

[@ChaN-ks3ov]

I’m a substitute teacher at a ESE classroom and have seen the craziest episode of some of the kids: throwing chairs, pulls other’s hair, bite, disrespect and all. I feel bad to these kids and three of the courses I’ve taken in Nursing is Psychology, Human Development and Sociology gave me an idea of human behavior and environmental factors that affects them. Now, I want to be a licensed SPED teacher to stay in this field and help more kids. They need understanding and not in principal’s office or detained. I hate it when my TA’s yelled at the kids. I have no say because I’m only a substitute teacher. :(

[@laerrus]

I feel so terrible for her. She's been through things no child should have to experience. She has such sad, tired eyes. I hope she's doing well and I hope no more harm is done to her for the rest of her life.

[@East_L.A_Ivy]

They love handing out psych meds to kids in juvenile hall like it’s candy. half the people I was locked up with when I was a juvenile offender (a decade & 1/2 ago) we’re on meds including myself. I personally feel like therapy helps a lot more than meds. Don’t get wrong some do have serious problems and need meds but some just need love & therapy!

[@CalamariProductions]

Very good points @Ms A. We've seen the same and happen to agree. Appreciate your taking the time to watch and comment!

[@christinawells2024]

I’m a nurse practitioner and when I was in school I had a fantastic psych instructor. She taught us to be very careful when diagnosing a person with a mental disorder, because of all the stigma associated. She especially placed emphasis on diagnosing children. Once they have a diagnosis of a mental disorder, it’s like they are marked. I agree therapy is the best treatment, but yes some do need meds. This is so sad.

[@lana4127]

Don't be idiot if you really think love is going to help anyone you need the help this isn't lala land some people will always be bad and do shit and therapy nor love is going to help them think with your brain and not your minds

[@keyonnacrews9731]

Coming from psst experience counseling don’t help either just as well as the meds . I was 13 taking meds. Whatever we battled from we just gotta grow from it .

[@keyonnacrews9731]

@@christinawells2024 I agree

[@janay.f]

Do you do follow ups? I would love to see where she's at today.

[@CalamariProductions]

Yes we do! We hope to follow up with her in the near future. Thanks for asking!

[@rtmlandscapingjunkremoval1875]

Me also

[@kimmybee12]

I'm hoping that this beautiful young Lady is doing well. She has gone through so much for her age.

[@Asmrbriaa]

What gets me is you get locked up for being a runaway instead of stability therapy and programs. How is that a crime? Smh I hope she is doing good

[@fredrickobrechistein8623]

There is a curfew for under 18s.

[@ronaldmiears4554]

I hope she gets her life together yes she needs a good loving home

[@mael2039]

the system is letting these kids down. They dony need to be locked up, they need help. She needs people like that one teacher who saw a young girl with so much potential and so many rough circumstances and she actually put herself in between that girl and the world because lots of people are all talk and this lady actually did something. The circumstances of her aunt's house with them turning the bathroom into an extra bedroom, man, this family needed help, and instead, they got charges. I hope she will get the help she needs to thrive and she will achieve her dreams of a farm.

[@joeytang1297]

O sweet angel Im so sorry for you.....

[@mrdollaz]

I was in Salem 3 times when I was a kid 30 days , 2 years and then 6 months 😆 they turned it into a adult prison over time tho because at the end kids was kil ling and rapi ng each other

[@samnaylor787]

Brilliant you whated to hear what they got to say sometimes they just need talk. They might be in jill but she still person she got loy going of she sounds like lovely person I've got learning disability and heath problems as soon people know you got problems that's ithey think something wrong with you. They talk lovly with her

[@MajesticGreen23]

Omg! This girl is like my 11 year old son when it comes to teachers and school. I do not in anyway agree with how the teachers treat the children with ADHD and behavior issues. Being physical and verbally abusive with them will only make things worse. These kids want attention. They want to feel accepted. They want to feel like someone understands them. My son's teachers put his hands behind his back, holds him down, triggers him by mocking him and pretending they are recording him for me to see. He is a mommas boy. He wants to make me happy. But these teachers trigger these kids. If a kid triggers my son and he gets upset.he tries to breath. He asks them if he can step out and calm down. They don't let him. They just pester him over and over about his behavior and he snaps. I had a teacher tell me to my face that my son was. Being a little asshole! I was like excuse me!? He is a child with behavior issues. Impulsive issues. He isn't an asshole. He is learning to control his impulsiveness. He doesn't like to disappoint me. He doesn't want to be "bad" . These teachers shouldn't be teachers for these children if they can't stay calm and keep composer . It's disgusting. I had to start having his counselor visit him at school because I donttrjst his teachers to help calm him

[@ChaN-ks3ov]

As a substitute teacher. I know this but not from a teacher but from the TA’s that are hired permanently by the district. I don’t yell at kids and treat them like my own with lots of love and understanding because this is all they need not yelling and scolding. One behavior specialist that comes and goes pressed the clavicle of a child to stop from being so destructive and the child was in so much pain and fall on his knees. I was a new substitute and never say something. The behavior or district hired mediator is from Jamaica and a tall man-like lady and dressed up like a man.

[@MsStephanieJane32]

She’s a sweet soul; she doesn’t deserve to be in jail. Someone help her

[@FaZeRig]

She yappin fr

[@diegoortega453]

She looks charming, intelligent, and deserves a better life, not l behind the bars I wish the best for her..😄

[@christinawells2024]

This is so sad. She seems like an intelligent girl, she just needs the right environment and a stable family. Her parents failed her. I don’t always like to blame the parents, but this is 100% her parents fault. I hope she gets the help she needs.

[@MrsReggieRegg]

So are you saying when she, her brother and sister would sneak out the house at night up until they were caught by their parents and thats when the sisters decided to run away which started her on her path to destruction you're saying that its her parents fault? You're saying her parents should have known that their kids were sneaking out at night? Yeah ok..whatever are you a parent? Cuz its usually someone without kids always putting the blame on the parents.Let's say that this girl being 15yrs old took a knife to school and stabbed another student to death would you still put the blame on her parents? Everything IS NOT THE PARENTS FAULT

[@carlasuannelockett1694]

How TF you BLAMING the PARENTS?

[@Big_sosa]

First of all why are you blaming the parents when the parents try to do everything it’s not her parents fault you are just Soph 😭✋🏿

[@mykillmatic]

​@@Big_sosa you wrong for that, or you didnt listen at all... Maybe you are her dad..

[@justinmartin4662]

You just take what she says at face value? I don’t believe her dad threw her mom through a wall, and whatever happened you don’t know his story and even she probably doesn’t know everything. Even if everything she said is true that doesn’t have anything to do with her sneaking out at night, it’s not like she was doing it to escape, and she said her and her mom are like best friends.

[@egyptianmusk9008]

Heartbreaking that she went through so much art such a young age. I wish her the absolute best ❤️

[@CalamariProductions]

We agree @Egyptian Musk. Her resilience to get through it all was inspiring.

[@viliabone1952]

I cant understand how you can be charged and detained for being a runaway....

[@MrsReggieRegg]

The police should talk to the runways a find out why they ran away instead of just locking them up and charging them

[@stevensgirl85]

I agree 100%

[@christineeschbach7559]

Yea. Agree

[@michaelcampbell6327]

Again great job guys , giving a voice to these kids.

[@CalamariProductions]

Thanks @Michael Campbell! Appreciate it. 😊

[@N4riiii]

I like how you take the time and interview them and let them talk. To let them say how life has been, how they are doing, etc.

[@CalamariProductions]

Thanks @Kenaria Meeks. We think their voices-in their own words-are most powerful of all. ❤️

[@wes5150.]

My 'Hat's Off to You' !

[@jenny4reals76]

Calamari Productions you done amazing

[@nikileenelson4104]

Bruh this interview is all over the place

[@carlasuannelockett1694]

Wtf else they supposed to do?

[@illumindonnaughty]

There is something very likable about her? I wish her all the best for the future.

[@alisejankovska9125]

it just shows how we don't really care about each other ..... I grew up in agressive family as well.... I am not in prision but emotionally I hardly trust anyone... Childhood is very important..

[@soniadoreendoreensonia8237]

She is a good story teller I could listen to her all day and I really like her and wish her all the best. Hope she finds her footing and achieve her goals

[@scottgeorge4268]

Sounds a little like there are parents who need some training how to BE a parent.

[@olgagrays7477]

Good morning 🙏

[@annasnow.]

Whoever made this video thumbs up to you for letting her just talk, and be her. All of the bullshit in her life unfortunately wont end here, but I can say she will grow up to be a very strong woman who hopefully ends up wanting to help others. Remember certain people are chosen to live certain lives because the next person couldn't take it. I wish her the best and hope she gets out of placement asap, too much abuse goes on in foster care. Goodluck to this sweet girl💋

[@gamuiceyt01]

These videos have helped me to be less judgmental but to be more empathetic towards these kids and some incarcerated people. It’s also made me appreciate my own upbringing. Good luck to this girl, hope she gets all the help and love she clearly needs.

[@showinghandlesisawful]

"and I'll have my own room ... thank God" Pretty telling, IMO :-(

[@kaidsmile4692]

She is a good kid. Just needs stability and guidance.

[@nextwing6380]

She is such a lovely girl,can't believe a girl like her in jail. I wish she would soon be released and would find a good job and begin her life again.🥰

[@catasrophieGrrl]

I don't know when this was filmed, and I'm super super glad to hear Paradise is doing well. Just a tip to her if she ever sees my comment. Paradise, from one run away who was in the system and had a crappy childhood to another young lady going through similar... You're amazing and worth far more than you think. Trust me. I can see it, we all can. Also, try starting out as a farm hand and working your way up

[@CalamariProductions]

We ❤️ your comment @F Vegas! Thank you so much for such kind, heartfelt words. You are so right - Paradise is not alone, and finding support even from total strangers can go such a long way. This is why we love our viewers. People like you restore our faith. THANK YOU! 💕

[@jazzlander5309]

[@devantehead2900]

@@CalamariProductions what year is this from ?

[@waltonslandscaping7178]

I truly wish the best for her... I hope to this day she is doing good. She's been through a lot... She's seen a lot. There is hope for her, and every other juvenile thats stuck in the system. BLESSINGS TO HER ☺ P. S she might need her meds switched 🤷‍♂️

[@jackmedcalf6254]

For what she has been through she sure shows a level of maturity that the adults around her didn't have.

[@Gomes719]

The problem is the environment and upbringing when you around toxic people you tend to pick up to those bad habits she definitely should be placed in a happy family instead of going to jail

[@donnamariedavidson5065]

I so agree!

[@mariallorensdepner5852]

This young lady has the wise insight to know that she needs a respite from drugs, alcohol, and sex- probably much more insight than her parents have.

[@isaacanderson4740]

I feel bad in foster care until 18 as a male I was her as a kid 28 years old I'm active duty military and a nurse in the Navy i hope paradize is ok my brother I see why he watches this he made some really good comments he is stationed in California I'm stationed in Japan

[@juandomingoperon7965]

Thank you for your service sir , some of the comments on here are really arrogant and judgemental towards her .

[@keishajones1432]

Jesus, this poor kid doesn't have a chance.....talk about parents droppin the ball. No electricity? Alcoholic dad, mom trying to raise all these kids while clearly living below the poverty level. I know the area this child is from, & LOTS of these babies end up dead, in jail, or just a statistic. I'll be praying for this girl. The system ain't helping this girl.

[@josephgreen7559]

my dad awaly drink

[@chelseaelizabeth895]

she's just amazing. i pray she's doing well & her dreams of becoming a vet and having a farm come true. 🙏❤️

[@jordan0338]

Your amazing Chelsea Elizabeth

[@isaacanderson557]

Domestic violence i don't play that i see it daily as a nurse i hope paradise is doing better and ok

[@krystaltalentino2589]

She owns her reasons that brought her there instead of blaming the system. Most kids (n’ adults), in her position can not own up to their faults. Sadly she also feels safer where she is at rn. 😔🙏

[@clairewatson5845]

Sending light & love to Paradise. A beautiful young lady who needs love and kindness, to have stability and a good therapist to help her move on from a rough start to life xx

[@rainandthangz]

shes in jail because shes a runaway ? anybody ever stop to ask why tf she ran away to begin with ? na its always the childs fault huh? & this is helping her how?

[@cynthiadavid5282]

I pray she gets a life full of love when she gets out she has been through alot prayers 🙏 and counseling all her life j hope she gets to go loving home and stable home God bless her she is smart

[@susansgalaxy2219]

I pray that she's doing well 🙏🙏🙏

[@ahasbaiavila8883]

Shout out to the only adult in her life that stood up for her, her teacher. This girl only needs stability, love, and adults who trust her. Wish I could just hug her and let her know she is better than this. I pray her life gets better❤️

[@intotheunknown1991]

She's in Jail because she's runaway a few times? Wherever she lives have some stupid laws, She needs help not jail Poor girl , hope she's out now

[@lauramurray8145]

This poor girl just breaks my heart 😥

[@carlenefletcher3425]

I feel pretty bad for this young lady. ✌️🇨🇦

[@notsure1111]

As a mom and a woman with childhood trauma I just want to give this young lady the biggest hug. She's needs stability not jail.

[@teainortakoy]

Such a bright, articulate girl with so much potential. She has a great future ahead as a vet or in an animal care role if she puts her mind to it. I work for an animal charity and I'd definitely give someone like her a chance.

[@rjscrimo2627]

This poor girl needs a break in life. I wish her all the best

[@sarahb59]

I hope you get a break ❤️ no child should have to live such a disruptive life 🥲 you seem like a really nice girl good luck and god bless ❤️🙏

[@ayonnazglam9050]

I worked in a children's home and stories like this always broke my heart. The kids were super sweet but had a rough life.

[@CalamariProductions]

@ayonnazglam9050 - kudos to you for working in such an important field. You are right -- the stories are heartbreaking. As one judge once told us, "I don't know how some of the kids survive." Sad but true. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@ayonnazglam9050]

@@CalamariProductions thanks for making this content! It's very important.

[@erinsteinbergs568]

You did an excellent job by the questions that where asked. You are totally brave answering the questions.

[@chuckwagner76]

If I ever have a daughter like this young resilient amazing girl I hope she's just as cool as her, I'm sorry you were never made feel that way ....your awesome 😎👊👍☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️wishing you all the best for your future ! Stay cool , stay strong 💪 go for your dreams you can do it !!!!

[@getrdunok]

Appreciate the videos a lot!! Great job on all of them .

[@CalamariProductions]

Really appreciate that @MR WHO CARES. We’re so thankful for our viewers and everyone who supports the work we do!

[@ierah1173]

I'm sorry I do feel bad for her but she tells a whole book to a question

[@donnamariedavidson5065]

I'm betting it's because she never got paid attention to at home. Also she's nervous.

[@debbieschultz9768]

I believe all of her crimes acting out, she really just needs attention. She needs guidance, structure, and boundaries. Most of all she needs love.

[@annyoung6560]

My heart goes out to her.

[@katiewashington7338]

My OPINION.....Depression and TRAUMA Are totally different

[@Wgkarlrs67]

No place for children...Remain strong 💪youngn..

[@hippiechick10956]

I like this girl, she is doing typical things many 15 year old kids do. I understand her life it’s so much like the childhood I had. She has been bothered by so much adult stuff and the terror of watching her mother bloody and beat along with the horrible screams. I hope she will take all that bad stuff and start her life by knowing what not to do. She is very mature and smart and has all that to use during her life. I think she will be just fine.

[@CalamariProductions]

We agree @hippiechick 10956. Kids like Paradise go through more than most adults can imagine. She and so many others are deserving of every ounce of time snd resources we have to overcome what they’ve been through. Appreciate you watching her story and taking the time to comment. ❤️

[@ariamarshall5161]

It’s frustrating to see the medical profession give tons of labels && then do the bare minimum for treatment. Then throw them to the juvenile system. Ppl advocate for mental health & hate the CJS but facts are facts they don’t know what they are doing either. These kids are being failed long before they get to juvenile corrections. The teachers nor the counselors did much to help her. She’s clearly a sweet & intelligent girl. She clearly said she listens to ppl who aren’t out to get her. No reason an adult should be calling a child a bitch. Those teachers & counselors provoke those babies. They need tough love but the key would is love patience kindness understanding etc. She’s acting up bc simply wants to be heard not just seen. This is the path women who are on the streets have when they turn to drugs & prostitution just to survive . She’s had a hard life. She’s had to fend for her family. She’s been bounced around. She’s a product of her environment. She has it in her to become better. She just needs help to get there.

[@kissmeunderthemoonlight512]

When a kid is thinking about running away over over & over.. they need a healthy stable home to grow up in & flourish!! Her seeing her OWN mother get bet by her OWN father is going to do nothing but make it where she thinks it's ok to have a man bet you..

[@kreterakete]

She is beautiful, smart, clever and fun

[@Geenoi]

DUDE what the hell she's a minor!

[@patiencemavenge27]

She needs help not jail she is so amazing if i had money i was going to adopt her.

[@angelinahall6299]

Most of the time there is a reason kids run away from home for me it was being molested by my father, problem is no one ever bothers to ask these kids y they r running away

[@PositiveRaincloud]

Beautiful girl with a crap upbringing. Can still see the light in her eyes, I wish her the best

[@MaryMacElveen]

Yep. The breakdown of the family and the absence of a strong and loving father add to the rise in juvenile offenders. We are living in a sick society.

[@christinabancker5846]

100% child of her environment you can't be a kid in a environment like that and do great kids should be able to be kids. I hope she gets the help she needs and that 20-year-old guy should have been Locked up

[@kathleen2920]

Lord help this sweet sweet girl! She has been through so much at 15 years old!! These crappy parents that brought her up, they should be IN JAIL😤😡 FOR years so many really selfish stupid ahole people have kids. But does NOT EVEN try to parent these kids!! Sad is these parents have No idea how THEY screwed up these kids for LIFE.. So this circle will NEVER END, YEAR AFTER YEAR. So sad how F UPED so many kids are today!!!

[@eileen51680]

Sad she didn't need jail her dad did. She seems to have PTSD I hope she is doing okay today....she just needs better guidance that's all.

[@angelaiacobacci4998]

Poor kid...she's so all over the place and don't even kno what to say..too many kids where she was and she never got the right attention she needed

[@CalamariProductions]

She had a lot of trauma as a young girl, that's for sure @Angela Iacobacci. She was a very sweet girl when we met her and spent time with her in detention. Appreciate you watching her story.

[@elisawalsh7445]

She needed a stable home not a prison sentence. Wonder where she is now?

[@WilliamViets]

Hate to say it, but she is probably living in a healthier environment - cleaner, ample food and some medical care. Plus, she had to quit smoking.

[@RetroPlus]

This really shows the sheer destruction of alcoholism and an awful example of a parent

[@stormyjlb]

She is me, years and years before. And now I’m a veterinarian! If I can do it, so can she!

[@CalamariProductions]

We LOVE to hear stories like this @Janice Lauren Baker -Actor!! Thanks for sharing yours. And we totally agree!!

[@RachelDex]

I wish we could find out how she's doing now. Anyone if she has Instagram or something? Hope she's doing good 🙏

[@mysterymayhem7020]

Since when is running away a criminal offense?

[@CalamariProductions]

You might be surprised at the number of runaway cases we see in the juvenile system. 🙁

[@Kim-k1176]

When a child runs away, we should ask WHY would a child run away?

[@jenniferward9015]

@@Kim-k1176 You're absolutely right. We need to know what's going on inside these homes to cause these kids to runaway.

[@venomlily1651]

This is very heartbreaking to watch, especially because she had to go through so much at such a young age . Kids who've had trauma lose a lot of their youth, because they have to " grow up " so fast to take care of themselves . I bet this is especially hard for people who can't have kids, but love them so much . That's what's so CRUEL about this world we live in . There are people the whole WORLD over, who would give ANYTHING to have a child of their own that they can raise and love, but they can't have children . Then they're those that are the WORST parents to ever walk God's green earth, but they can have LOTS of kids . They abuse physically, verbally and emotionally . They beat and rape and torture the innocence out of their kids, while all that folks who would've loved those kids can do, is listen to and watch the tragic stories of what happened to those kids on the news . And I wish people would stop using the excuse, " We were poor and couldn't afford to take care of them ." LAME excuse, if you ask me . I grew up poor, but I never knew we were poor . Why ? Because my mom, my aunt and my grandmother, all of who raised us, NEVER argued about the lack of money in our home . They scraped together what they could to take care of 6 kids, counting my aunt's 2 and we were appreciative of everything we got . But, bottom line, they LOVED US, like Little Bear's mom loved him . Their love for us was INTENSE, as it should be . Every child deserves to be loved the way we were loved .

[@brendanmanwaring9971]

God bless you sister.

[@angelinahall6299]

So y is it teacher s can physically verbally abuse kids and even refuse them lunch.calling a child names is abusive

[@pinknshane]

what year was this . she said she was raped in 2008 ? I hope this young lady is somewhere safe .

[@JuanaLucia1996]

Damn. I hope her life has gotten better as an adult since she said she was 15 and its 2008. But you can see the sadness in her eyes that's what pain looks like when you cry without tears because you no longer have more tears to shed.

[@dankyd5287]

Can someone help me make sure I understand this right, here in the 🇺🇸 kids get criminal charges/put in jail over running away? 😵😵

[@maccifyme]

This interview made me cry. I really hope this girl is doing better now. She seems so intelligent, she's brave and strong and she's been going through much more than any kid should ever do. Nothing that happened to her was her fault. All of the grownups around her failed her. I hope she got the mental health treatment she needed, so she can use her full potential and maybe become a veterinarian or whatever she is passionate about now!

[@andrewhyde3146]

It's very true to say that not everyone in prison is a bad person. Some people haven't chosen a bad way of life, instead they are a victim of bad circumstances. Of course, people still have to take responsibility for committing crimes against others, but yes, they should be given an opportunity to redeem themselves. Those who knowingly commit crimes against others, especially in a premeditated way, well that's a different story.

[@DonatellaBotolino]

This young lady will be okay💖 bless her heart that she knows at such a young tender age what’s good for her… I’m sure the parents tried and did their best with the life they were handed.my only hope is that her parents learn from her and also realize that’s they need to make changed

[@AmyMayden]

I really relate to this girl. I was in juvenile detention like six times. Twice for running away. Twice for domestic battery. Once for assault and battery and once for aggravated assault and battery. I just had a lot of anger in me due to similar circumstances this young girl went threw a long with multiple mental health problems. Now I'm 25 I just got my adult record dismissed and am married and pregnant with identical twins

[@victorial6314]

18:10 "we had to use over $100/week for power"... I live in Hawaii and the power's not as expensive here! I think her bff/mom might be using it on a form of 'green energy' she isn't aware of

[@alicewolfson4423]

It sounds like her parents, like so many shouldn't have had kids.