This Is What It’s Like to Spend Your Life in Prison | NYT Opinion

[@1200sb]

"I was 17 when I got locked up and I am 80 years old now" is probably one of the wildest things I've ever heard.

[@newyitty1846]

Word

[@KingIrvXL]

Yea they need to let him go

[@patrickbrown-lott7964]

fosho they played dude he's done life

[@___Anakin.Skywalker]

it's easy bruh do crime, do time

[@lazifocker]

which one would you rather choose: death sentence or life without parole

[@ortinsuez2052]

AT 80 YEARS AND HE STILL HAS A DREAM TO BE FREE AND START OVER. MAKES ME REALISE HOW MUCH I CAN ARCHIEVE WITH THIS FREEDOM I HAVE.

[@lf2334]

Please fix your caps lock key.

[@ortinsuez2052]

@@lf2334 TRY AGAIN.

[@lf2334]

@@ortinsuez2052 are you OK?

[@ortinsuez2052]

@@lf2334 TRY AGAIN!

[@John.Harper]

@@ortinsuez2052 lmaoooo

[@carrieannkouri2151]

Much respect to the inmates who are at least trying to make a difference helping others while serving their time.

[@JK-or3nu]

It’s in there human nature, but what about there character when put into stressfull situation

[@cholmanjr8345]

Indeed

[@joaquimrodriguez8961]

More respect to those who never became inmates.

[@thebeasters]

The time is until death

[@donrebel1340]

why not do that when they was young

[@WilliamBurton-uc8yc]

I thank God that I never ended up like this. I was a very angry young man, ran with the wrong crowd. I could have easily ended up like this. I had a mentor that taught me to take responsibility for my actions and to take pride in myself for making the right decisions in life. I am now a great grandfather and it's scary to think that one wrong decision can change your life forever.

[@sawittwo]

🙏🏼

[@karymerced2950]

That mentor was your blessing, I’m happy to know you’re out here, seeing them men in there and hearing them speak, that broke my heart, especially the last one Mr Robinson I think was his name, he did 66 years and never made his dream come true, May he RIP. I hope you continue in the right path and may God bless you and those men in there, I pray they get out one day.

[@OS-xt9ii]

Sammie's conviction was actually overturned 2 years into his sentence. He spent life in prison because of a prison fight that killed someone. If he hadn't been wrongfully convicted in the first place none of this would have happened. Truly heartbreaking

[@Vondon_]

Wowwwwwwww. You just brought me to tears man🤦🏾‍♂️🤦🏾‍♂️🤦🏾‍♂️

[@BeezEaze]

How absolutely devastating.

[@Limosethe]

That was the most horrible thing I've ever heard, Ohh my God it makes my skin crawl

[@deeayeveeeyees]

imagine being free to go after years but then having to live out the test of your life in prison because something happened (that may have been completely out of his control of even for self defense) that keeps you rotting in prison for the rest of your life. soul shattering 😢

[@KevinCovington5453]

So What Your Saying Is PREMEDITATED MURDER Is OK, If You Are Wrongly Convicted, Bitter and jaded. How About This Perspective. HAD HE NOT COMMITTED MURDER He Would Have been RELEASED When His Sentence Was Overturned. Additionally, WHY Was His sentence Overturned? Not ONE INTERVIEW Mentioned The Fate of Their Victim and Their Families. THAT IS WHAT PRISON OFFICIALS ARE LISTENING FOR. When Your Basic Needs are Being Met, Thats a LOT OF LIFE STRESS Not On Your Shoulders That ARE DEAD WEIGHT Once You Walk Back Out.

[@BigRich91]

My brother was murdered I do empathize with some of these men…. But I can never see my brother again, hear his voice, see him with his kids, hug my mom and dad, watch me get old, watch him get old, laugh, love, hug him, tell him how much I loved him, how much I miss him.. fill him in on all the things that have happened since he passed away. By taking our loved ones , we live out a sentence they chose for us. A sentence we had no preparation for, a sentence we had no understanding of… A sentence we must live out

[@kevinsteele7999]

I understand, but as a 17 year old spending 60 years locked up. you can still do some good.

[@darcskies777]

Absolutely,. And they can do its behind bars where they belong. @@kevinsteele7999

[@johndavis9432]

@@kevinsteele7999How about thinking about the people that they murdered instead of whining about the monsters?!

[@BigAHNEE]

@@kevinsteele7999but nothing you can’t become alive again once your dead. These men are lucky to still be alive . They just have to be alive in jail . Oh well

[@Mr_Zzzeee]

@@kevinsteele7999 Yes, that's what a life sentence without parole, means.

[@ieattofu68]

My son will be 26 tomorrow and I am so glad I was able to convince him to get an education and stay out of those streets. I am so glad that he listened to me and all the good women and especially men that I placed in his life who were able keep him in a good place in his mind. I am so glad he stayed out of trouble and I am so thankful for everyone who has been there for him and are still looking out for him.

[@nicoloco6569]

Thank you for being a good mom 🙏 . Greetings from 🇩🇪 . You can be proud of yourself.💪🥇 . Good moms are rare these days.....

[@HughJorgan09]

Done correctly, it truly DOES take a village!

[@jeffmariahreacts7998]

😂😂 only bums in the streets it’s 2024

[@dawgdays7267]

That’s where it starts. At home. Great job!

[@nmrmack]

Well done, mom. VERY WELL DONE! As a Black Male Educator, this is one of my MAIN OBJECTIVES.

[@zango2121]

80 year old man locked up for 63 yrs ,saying I want to get out and start over …..that HURT ! 😞 😢….he is free now …God bless Sammie’s soul.

[@SanctifiedLady]

He died?

[@zango2121]

@@SanctifiedLady yes 😞

[@SanctifiedLady]

@@zango2121 This system, this society, the justice system is 90% wicked! This happens to even innocent people. Now he’s free to start again. 😢❤️🕊️

[@kidgully1]

Apparently a few years into his sentence his original case got squashed but unfortunately whilst in prison he caught a murder charge

[@brendamcintyre-os6ef]

Locked up at just 17 years old and he’s now 80 WOW!!

[@james-ud9lp]

Was. Died in 2019.

[@RSKLove]

Good riddance

[@AmberU]

@@RSKLovei kind of agree the victims are still deceased they can never change or live to see anything where as these folks sometimes change sometimes dont ! Everyone does not end up in prison with life sentences going through childhood !

[@imranxalamin]

63 YEARS WOW... my dad is 63

[@dafcorleone]

That’s insane…imagine spending your entire life in prison.

[@aaronr5422]

Their situation is unfortunate but let’s not forget that someone’s existence ended because of the choices these men made

[@mikeyy425]

Yes, but since its not life sentences for homicide, across the board. Then you have to consider these guys testament

[@vasilisazagurskaya8665]

I agree. What strikes me the most though is how every single one of them mention very frequently how they have changed and become better people which is believable but… practically every one of them failed to mention how horrible they feel having to carry the soul-wrenching guilt of killing a person.

[@involuntarysoul3867]

@@vasilisazagurskaya8665 what guilt, they loved the experience of killing, it is a feeling of absolute power and adrenaline, the best high they will ever experience

[@tyrone-tydavis5858]

@@vasilisazagurskaya8665 Wow....they've managed to be model citizens.....in a hyper confined space monitored 24 hours a day by armed guards. Gee, must have taken a great deal of effort.

[@davidwright873]

facts!!!

[@hopeimoh4208]

This video should be shown in schools

[@mmafan3]

Or take the kids there for a week ..I remember when I was young and they had a movie called Scared Straight and after that, I straightened out. Sadly, though, going to jail is a badge of honor for many these days.

[@SeeMissDee1000]

For every life sentence, there's a person laying in an early grave. They don't get a second chance.

[@andrewdavis6687]

Except wrongful convictions, which are real and common

[@rachelheyth3645]

I agree with your sentiment up to a point. But, there comes a point where punishment enough has been reached. I have heard of men who are dying of cancer to ill to take care of themselves who die handcuffed to their bed. We still have some lessons to learn about humanity.

[@ivanflores3629]

​@@rachelheyth3645don't do the crime if you can't do the time

[@rachelheyth3645]

@@ivanflores3629 I don't think they consider that at whatever they are going to do. Lol

[@BigLebowski324]

Remember that whenever you ask for forgiveness someday. That in your view it’s an eye for an eye, so therefore you equally deserve no forgiveness for any of your wrongdoings.

[@user-kv4bz6gj4e]

The man talking about his twins shattered my heart.. Locked up at just 17 years old and he’s now 80 WOW!!.

[@davidwright873]

time stops for no man....ever....And the same for the dead....They didn't stand a chance..they's gone!!

[@lizmariequinn]

N then had to die there😢

[@firingallcylinders2949]

These men should have sit downs with young thugs and gangbangers.

[@teste-yh5df]

yes but if u think only in the dead and not on the live then everyone will be DEAD@@davidwright873

[@Vondon_]

63 years😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@Blippity_Bloop64]

This really needs to be shown to the youth. Let them know what a "life" sentence really means. Kids need to see Mr. Robinson and be told, "When you're out there, strutting the streets, without a care in the world, just think. This could be you."

[@user-mk1gp2cw7o]

Yeah definitely I'll show my boys

[@oldorleans9583]

I totally agree with you and more should be done by government and schools etc to make sure that children and teenagers totally understand the true meaning, because I have seen first hand how some teenagers have no concept that they will spend the rest of their lives in there, a decision that someone who was 18 years old made 22 years ago after years of neglect and abuse has him serving two life sentences in Angola la, if he had only had the help and education to begin with then it could of been very different for him, but since then he has spent all that time locked up in that place, witness to some very ungodly things that i wouldn't wish upon anyone, fighting each and every day to keep his manhood, seeing others lose theirs forcibly, and being sold by other inmates and seeing other inmates having to do things just to survive, he learned a very harsh lesson from that place and he will most probably die there, among the other men never going home due to bad choices etc, I know that some people might not be capable of second chances but for those who truly have learned their lesson and are willing to be a productive member of society then surely they could be given a second chance, but to just lock up someone with mandatory sentences is not good, surely there's a better way for those who truly deserve it, can anyone honestly say that they are same person that they were at 15,16,17,18 years old now ? Surely there should be some hope of redemption genuinely for those who truly have turned it around ?

[@nil981]

Videos like this wouldn't be shown in a world that made sense. Because in that world, these murderers would be six feet under.

[@bartididthat]

@@user-mk1gp2cw7o Fear is an interesting emotion to build off of. It does work but only in the short term. You should provide yours kids with a more positive foundation, one that doesn't erode so quickly over time. If done correctly they wont even want or need to be in these situations. Just my opinion coming from a mom that used this tactic beforehand.

[@dalanbronnenberg]

Not going to help.

[@jinjowatts]

This stirs up a lot of conflicting emotions. When you watch the video, you can't help but feel compassion for these faces. But what about the other side? What if next to their photo was a photo of their victim and how old that victim would have been today? It's just all around sad and that's all I really have to say on it.

[@mr.sushi2221]

Yeah because they are people. That’s why you feel compassion. The human emotion you would and should also feel is rage they took a life. But would you rather live in rage and vengeance or with grace and compassion?

[@jinjowatts]

@@mr.sushi2221 I would rather live with grace and compassion. But it’s hard. Anger feels more honest in the face of injustice, even though it just leads to more suffering. It’s something I struggle with.

[@bowlOnudel]

These men did not waste any time in prison. All that time spent was multiple cycles of grief for not only the victim but their family and even their own family, for the life they now can't live cause of what they did when they were 16,17,18 most likely mixed up in the wrong crowd that eventually led to a murder. What happened had happened unfortunately and they already know well enough that their actions had multiple severe consequences. This video is about hearing the dudes out and sets an example of "when you're in for life, you are most definitely in for life" except all of these men never got to live a proper life cause they were TEENAGERS when it happened. They were doomed to the system. Why cant they spend what time they have left off of years stolen by a stupid decision made by their teenage self. Of course they will forever be burdened, no use in rubbing it in.

[@dave1927p]

Or the victims family members speaking about their loved ones and how their life was also forever changed

[@erikag7334]

I don’t feel bad for them 🤷🏻‍♀️ now when it comes to the victims those are the main people I do have empathy for. It’s a terrible feeling I just don’t even know how families deal with it. Those are the strongest people ever. I wish the dead could tell their side of the story. The inmates could make up a whole bunch of crap that led to the events so that’s why I’m weary of them when they are being interviewed in documentaries

[@Cyrus_the_viral]

What’s sad is that we all have that killer side inside of us. Be grateful that God protected us from those situations where we would have acted them out and be on the other side. Much luv and respect to everyone doing long time.

[@floaretudorache9287]

Not true

[@Cyrus_the_viral]

@@floaretudorache9287 everyone behind bar thought the same way.

[@Momo-xj9ni]

It's true!! We're all capable of murder it's just the grace of humanity that keeps us sand​@@floaretudorache9287

[@zareshawilliams1624]

No we don't! Speak for yourself

[@angeljaramillo2295]

🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@tristanrodenhauser5267]

There was a 29 year old woman in my county with previous DWIs, she got drunk again and killed 4 teen girls and a guy survived but was seriously injured when she ran the red light. When she was arrested she was concerned for her dog in the car more than who she just hit. It’s unusual but the Judge gave her 15 years back to back for each girl. 60 years, she will be 89 if she serves all of it. She deserves the time. She has been locked up since August 1999 in NC.

[@lookissjaxin]

And if released, she’ll probably drive drunk again. Society should not take the chance. She can visit her loved ones and exchange letters and gifts 🎁 with them. She can enjoy so much of life behind bars. Especially if she isn’t in a maximum security prison. Her victims and their families and friends are suffering longer than sixty years. And they committed no crime.

[@1caculusman]

@@lookissjaxin Best comment ever!

[@Pavia1525]

Was the dog ok?

[@lewisbhebhe285]

It’s a very complex situation.

[@zefiro87]

She deserves the time if she will not repent and become a better citizen, like the inmates in this video. Jail time is not a revenge, the idea is to that inmates learn the lesson.

[@Pe6ek]

They gave someone a death sentence but they don't want a life sentence for themselves.

[@ultimateshowdownbattle]

@Pe6ek Yes, the sob story for these vile men is disgusting. They didn't show their victims any mercy and many would get out and keep destroying society.

[@sammcdonald6183]

@creative charmclub. You’re a pest. Never made mistakes before?

[@paulskopic5844]

@@sammcdonald6183 There are different level of mistakes.

[@Janice-xv2vn]

@@sammcdonald6183 Your response defines a true criminal mindset because murdering innocent people is not a mistake. Go away lowlife.

[@stephencottens2521]

@@sammcdonald6183If it was your brother they killed you’d be loving this video. They are getting a small taste of what they put families through

[@KimAJones-zc9wi]

Someone told me” Never shorten your tomorrows for a quick today”!

[@purityisrael9025]

Exactly my dear, nice one, so true 😢❤

[@dogshake]

Well if you shorten someone else’s tomorrow then you deserve the punishment. Crazy how so many of the inmates in this video act like they shouldn’t be punished. It doesn’t matter how long ago it happened, they are still the same person. It’s not like they switched bodies or got a brain transplant….

[@DeeDeex007o]

👌

[@laurataylor8179]

Never heard that But i love it

[@chronicillz1879]

and what does that supposed to mean?

[@andrewdubose9968]

“Mercy to the guilty is cruelty to the innocent”.

[@planesinair]

Holding a grudge is self-inflicted punishment. Forgiveness is the only way to peace.

[@fangorangutang]

@@planesinairIt’s not about holding a grudge. It’s about public safety and preventing an individual who has proven they are capable of violating others in horrendous ways from ever doing so again.

[@azrajameela2524]

@@fangorangutangquestion : did you actually watch the video

[@Sier369]

@@fangorangutanghow is an 80year old going to harm people

[@imdurmac1]

it's about a life for a life. regardless of being remorseful and seems a better person, taking a life is very serious. that life is gone and their family has to continue without them; their grief will never go away because of one bad decision.

[@IspeakFacts-wx3gv]

Exactly, they didn't give the person they killed any chance so why should they get a chance? I say bs.

[@mary_puffin]

Even Cain in the bible received mercy after he murdered his brother. I'm not saying all these men should be released, just sharing a different perspective.

[@YungSpaceship]

⁠​⁠@@mary_puffinCain got a punishment that lasted the rest of his life. You should read up on that again.

[@mary_puffin]

@@YungSpaceship I was speaking on the mercy part. David caused someone's death and didn't even face prison. A myriad of examples from the bible. All I'm saying is that mercy and justice are both virtuous things to practice.

[@user-fx5sw1cn7j]

@@mary_puffin mercy is not justice and will encourage vigilantism

[@MrDaviyd]

Seeing that one man incarcerated since 1953 really did a number on me.

[@mds2465]

Omg yes, me too! That was so sad! It's why I generally try to avoid watching stuff like this! It's just too painful and upsetting!

[@johnnastrom9400]

What did the guy do? Did he have an unpaid packing ticket? Or did he murder someone? Why don't you show sympathy to the people who deserve it?

[@mds2465]

@@johnnastrom9400 he killed another inmate!

[@traviscarter1023]

That's crazy because my grandfather was only 20 years old in 1953 he just turned 90 years old a couple weeks ago. My other grandfather was 17 in 1953 he 85 years old that was long time ago 70 years ago. I noticed a guy from Philadelphia was locked up the same year a couple years ago he got out at 83 years old. He was with a group of people that killed a couple of people but the person he stabbed didn't die but they gave him all that time anyway. I think the city of Philadelphia is paying him back pay I think.

[@mds2465]

@@traviscarter1023 yeah it's a shame he's not alive anymore because with everything going on in today's world he probably would've gotten out by now.

[@yellowbags]

The hospice work is the best rehabilitation program out there. Helping others makes you a better person.

[@lostcub8572]

They're only doing it because they have life. No way they'd do it if they were free. No sympathy for these goofs.

[@Pavia1525]

@@lostcub8572 Why do our tax dollars have to pay for hospice care?

[@lostcub8572]

@@Pavia1525 who knows my friend. Who knows.

[@TeeTV22]

wow..@@lostcub8572

[@NPJGlobal]

​@@Pavia1525 this whole comment section is heartless... are you americans really all that heartless? People. change. Everyone deserves a second chance. Even murderers who repent. - Kind regards from Europe, with a much , much , much lower murder and incarceration rate.

[@rvy117]

Plead your stories to the children, cousins, brothers, sisters, daughters, sons, mothers and fathers of the family members you took from this Earth

[@MrLewis604]

I bet a larger % than you think would hear his story and show mercy. A mistake at 17 isn't worth a life full of confinement and torture. They didn't go into his story much, but I'd be curious what his crime was. 1953 in the South was a different time. Do we even know if he committed murder?

[@The_GlutenFree_Chef]

​@@MrLewis604 facts!

[@rachelheyth3645]

Enough is enough enough! God knew whenever to stop punishing the disobedient. Have we not moved on by His Grace and Mercy?

[@noneofyourbeeswax01]

And the members of the society that you live in.

[@diamonddeliliah123]

That mistake was most likely a murder. Someone never got a chance to live their lives because of his action.

[@LoveLivelife28340]

Scariest thing about prison is the amount of people who shouldn’t be there, and the harsh sentencing that some people receive!!! Never understood how someone who sold drugs could get more time than a sexual predator!!! 😢

[@truthtorpedo4068]

*THAN

[@kommisar.]

@@truthtorpedo4068 Because that person sold so much drugs that he was directly helping the cartel.

[@arturkot4108]

what the heck, what if it was your daughter ot mother that he has buthered and then sorted out her guts along every container in your neighbourhood? Would you still be so eager to release him because he cries and self pitties himself quite conviniently? Or have you just been influenced by the proffesional montage and sad music ?

[@noonebutme]

@@arturkot4108did u reply to the wrong comment or something?

[@arturkot4108]

@@noonebutme no, I didn't

[@GhastlyCretin]

I'm from a country that has ridiculously short sentences for murderers. If you haven't had a family member murdered and saw the murderer released to enjoy freedom, while whats left of your relative has long been rotting in the ground then it's very easy for you to have a bleeding heart for these guys.

[@jpe1]

How does wasting another life make up for the loss of the first? In other words, how would lengthening the prison sentence make the situation better? I’m not saying it _wouldn’t_ have that effect, but I’m not clear how or why it would. What is the benefit of longer prison sentences?

[@GhastlyCretin]

@@jpe1 Well, why "waste" any of the murderers time at all then? Would it be better if we spend the money sending them to a nice school and forget about punishment? All the while giving no justice to the victims and their families?

[@mc1993]

@@jpe1 You're right. They shouldn't get long prison sentences, they should get enough time to appeal and each appeal should be investigated thoroughly. If it's not overturned and the courts are positive, give them the needle.

[@jpe1]

@@mc1993 here’s a question I don’t have an answer to: should a person accused of a crime like murder be allowed to take their own life if they wish?

[@mc1993]

@@jpe1 No. Not if they are only accused.

[@aguidetobhutan7854]

Sammies thought on walking free from prison and starting all over again at life is really heartbreaking cause deep inside his heart he knows it’s impossible but just a thought about it is so comforting and beautiful that it gives him peace and happiness for a short moment. RIP..😢

[@DrunkenVtec]

Long live takeoff

[@theoldman-j]

who?@@DrunkenVtec

[@Emalye.Saeeeeeeeee]

@@theoldman-jdon’t be funny He’s apart of the known rap group migos

[@LT-eq2th]

​@@Emalye.Saeeeeeeeeenah not everyone knows who that fool is. He died. So what

[@LT-eq2th]

​@@DrunkenVtecbut he's not alive. Pushin up daisy's instead

[@violeteyes5255]

"If I Could Go Back And Change Things," is something often said by convicts doing time. I know this because I was there listening. In at 25, out at 45. I did 20 flat years in the joint, Huntsville, Texas for sending a man to permanent sleep. I gave him two chances to stop messing with my wife. The third time, he went to sleep forever. I didn't use a weapon; I used my fists. The majority of convicts will always put the blame on someone else. It was someone else's fault, not mine. Most convicts never take responsibility for their crime. The majority of them who say they do, only do so they can make parole. They really don't mean it. I did my crime, and I took full responsibility. I lost everything, but I never cried about it or put the blame on someone else. I long-way discharged my sentence because I never wanted to be on parole. I accepted it, did my time, got out and created a life for myself, working for myself. I've been out 23 years, bought a house on an acre of property and continue to work at 68 years old. If I have to work until I die, so be it. Believe me, most of these guys that are interviewed are just conning you. Wanting you to feel sorry for them. I've heard all of this before, thousands of times. I wouldn't trust one of these fools for a second.

[@KhadijahAli-pg9vu]

God bless you 🙏 ❤ ❤

[@Themilkman95]

Yeah they didn’t fool me, when I was 17 I never thought about killing someone.

[@Dawgliph]

Amen

[@lql1094]

Do you feel justified in killing that guy? It sounds like you thought of your wife as your property.

[@qkg6297]

@@Themilkman95fact I just wanted to play video games with my friends and hoped the girl I had a crush on like me. Murder was far from my mind

[@patton303]

I have a deep empathy for these guys. Especially the guys who made a profoundly terrible choice when they were essentially just kids. But my empathy is far deeper for the lives they took and the families they shattered. There’s really no win in any of this. May God have mercy on their souls.

[@silentmajority8365]

OK criminal

[@KM-hk8tc]

Sort of missed the point of the video didn’t you? Consider what the one inmate said “it’s not about what you’ve done but what you’ve become”. You seem to be a God fearing man (I’m not) so where’s your compassion for all men?

[@adotholland22]

get real pls

[@ProfShibe]

@@KM-hk8tcwell the people they murdered will never become anything because of what they did because they are gone forever

[@danroberts9050]

@@KM-hk8tc No, I'm sorry, but it IS about what you've done. That's all it's about. I don't care if you become the Pope. You're a murderer and you belong in prison for the rest of your life. I'm not falling for this crybaby liberal criminal loving crap.

[@szilvijuhasz]

I wish they would have interviewed the families of the victims as well. How do they feel after such a long time? I'm sure there is room to improve this system. Maybe the inmates themselves could give best advice on how to prevent such crimes. We are living in a very sad world...

[@PangetKano]

They want you to sympathize with murders not their victims. This is propaganda.

[@MyPrasad1984]

WELL EASIER SAID THAN IT WOULD TAKE MOMENTS OF STEELY GUTS TO BRING BOTH THE PARTIES ACROSS THE SAME ROOM ONE TO

[@szilvijuhasz]

@@MyPrasad1984 Sorry, that I wasn't clear in my comment. I never meant to bring both parties together in the same room. I was simply curious how to know the feelings and thoughts of the victim's families. Interviews certainly could be done separately. I think this is a very good video! For me it would have been better if they showed both sides.

[@jaymoney9407]

@@MyPrasad1984 you on drugs or something dude ?😂😂😂😂nobody said that

[@swaggerman3]

​@@MyPrasad1984no one said that you just mad

[@scottscott232]

1:17 - 1:31 - "He was the thug on the street, 24 / 25 years ago, and we're angry at that person, not realising that that person no longer exists; actually hasn't existed for like over 20 years". That statement absolutely blew my mind. What incredible words of wisdom and insight. I've heard some profound statements before, but nothing as wise as this for such a long time. What he said is thought changing.

[@eliteguard225]

And yet he does no mention of regret over killing or of carrying the guilt of so. Only sorry words for himself. That person he killed hasn't existed since 20 something years ago, either.

[@Black____]

​​@@eliteguard225 Powerful comment by you.

[@jamonpowell5973]

A life for a life

[@bullcrap9409]

@eliteguard225 He doesn’t mention guilt? You realize this is journalism, right? Its got a subject . You don’t cram in other topics. These men may have talked at length about guilt and so on? It would have not been used.

[@tinydunn739]

I’m beholden to Mr. Sammie’s statement. Everyone deserves a chance at life. And while our decisions may delay the possibility of freedom, holding on to faith keeps hope alive. I pray that we all are afforded 2nd chances in life. Let’s make it right.❤

[@frankleespkng]

“Even though I have a life sentence I prepare as if I’m going home tomorrow because who knows what may happen” They youth need to hear that. We all need to take heed to that. Stay prepared regardless🙏🏿👊🏿

[@miamitten1123]

The youth need to hear from people who are not commenting crimes.

[@Sasori0fTheSand]

A part of me wants to feel sympathetic towards these men until I realize that most of them have murdered another human being. They’ve not only taken someone’s life but hugely impacted someone’s family, friends, and loved ones. Those people don’t get to tell their story. They no longer get to tell us how they feel and we don’t get to see what they could have been. :(

[@Bentoto97]

If there is no happiness or joyful, never have winning season, always absence of hope, never have good days and always have to deal with suffering for the rest of our lives living in prison for life then is it at least little bit okay to commit suicide?

[@benedictwebsites]

What you missed is that those people no longer exist... who you are at 17 or 18 is not who you are later in life. There is no permanent self.

[@Bentoto97]

@@benedictwebsites I want you to read what I replied.

[@Bentoto97]

@@benedictwebsites Is it okay to commit suicide as long we are spending our lives in prison?

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

You need to adjust your sick thinking. All that matters is that they aren’t that person anymore. You weren’t the same person you were twenty years ago, were you? And spare me the “revenge” spiel. After a few years that stuff is lost on the inmate because, oftentimes, they’ll forgive themselves.

[@Timmyfromphilly1994]

The saddest part is them knowing that change was possible the entire time. It’s just they decided to change too late.

[@mariemarie3614]

...some people couldn't thrive through adversity. There are some sad stories out there. Forgiveness and compassion aren't guaranteed but should be humbly received when offered 💯

[@XPXhumble]

Got locked up at 17 and now 80 years is the wildest thing I’ve ever heard

[@christyjackson4835]

Didn't you just copy and paste someone else's comment??

[@hillbillychic8417]

The victim has been in his or her grave for 80 years, wild.

[@nmrmack]

I am going to show this to my students.

[@garrom5652]

@@Greylobsterwhy do u think, isn’t it obvious lol

[@unrulyay237]

U can show them but it's up to them to take the lesson ...... u can bring a horse to the river but u cant force it to drink the water

[@nmrmack]

@@unrulyay237 That may be true, but at least give them the water.

[@sharmaineclif6731]

​@nmrmack that's right!

[@laurawinters1504]

I hope it helps them.

[@WilliamBilly-i6q]

At 16 yrs old I knew I could do life for murder. I had lots of enemies at 16. I killed none of them because I knew the consequences. Whether I changed or not, the victim is still the victim.

[@jaybob324]

Well thank god you're not a judge

[@PajamaPower]

im sure now at ur old age u look back and regret choices u made when u were a teen

[@WilliamBilly-i6q]

@@jaybob324 there would be less repeat offenders if I was

[@trevorpage4223]

Unfortunately the facts doesn't support this statement....data says otherwise@@WilliamBilly-i6q

[@tinklangston5880]

Good for you. Too bad you don’t represent everyone’s brain

[@ruthmelicharles5062]

While some may feel sympathy for these men, consideration should be given to the victims and their families. The victims aren't here to tell their stories or to miss their families. Some of these men showed no mercy to their victims. Justice for some people means life in prison. I hope young people see this and understand the reality of prison life, so they'll make better decisions while free.

[@hopeimoh4208]

So you'll stiill be a victim to a crime committed since 1955 in 2024???what's wrong with you people's heart when it comes to forgiveness?

[@IspeakFacts-wx3gv]

It's easy to say when you're not the family of any of the victims. Yeah, only when it happens to you.

[@globalinsanity2652]

If they had committed those crimes today, with this no bail stuff, they'd probably get reduced sentences. The youth today are mowing down people left and right, but seems they're hardly brought to justice anymore.

[@zerieth6620]

If the crime is permanent ie you killed someone yes you get to sit in a cell for life. I personally oppose a life sentence with no parole before 25 but after that all bets are off. ​@hopeimoh4208

[@f89jgb7]

Found the criminal ​@@hopeimoh4208

[@fritsrits7591]

Most of these men murdered someone. That can never be reversed. Life for the family and friends have changed FOREVER. It will never be the same. Why should their life be the same as before their crime? If they were adults.. they knew..

[@mikeyy425]

They werent adults, some were 17. And with your logic, every homicide has someone in jail for life, and thats not true. They have an argument, theres no lesson if the punishment is death

[@Barr994]

@@mikeyy425 Exactly for example Charlene Gallego she murdered and r***d 10 woman with her husband and only got 16 years while these men have done one crime and their whole life was taken from them, this isn't to defend their actions but to point out that we are still trying to punish these 16 and 17 year old for these crimes decades later while we haven't even correctly sentenced the true monsters.

[@neerajnongmaithem392]

you might say that a 17 year old can be tried as an adult, but is some cases even 15-16 year old are serving life sentences. you definitely don't have same control as an adult when you are 15

[@user-fx5sw1cn7j]

@@neerajnongmaithem392 15 year olds are accountable to know that murder is not okay

[@user-fx5sw1cn7j]

@@mikeyy425 the lesson is for all the people who have not committed murder yet, but will rethink their choices if they know that moving ahead with an act of murder will result in a life sentence

[@vagabond1776]

Hindsight is 20/20. Everyone knows right from wrong. Having said that, I would respect the ones that better themselves and society…these are likely the only ones who really regret what they did. At the same time, having the victim’s family’s support makes an even greater difference.

[@ra2186]

The only difference to me is having the victims support and that victim will never speak again, which says volumes.

[@cindyearman4368]

Doesn’t eliminate the crime. Life sentences are for murder or worse. You may change, but your victim isn’t around to forgive you. Life means life.

[@dvanityv7346]

You can get life for drug crimes. Looks like all of these people committed murder though.

[@JoyLady-1966]

For 27 years I worked in prisons and probation parole. Men and women like these changed my life. There examples made me want to change my life😢

[@Trailfloater]

I did 13 years in prison and lifers are some of the most down to earth people

[@gulmanrahat6559]

If you dont mind me asking, what made you serve 13 years?

[@Trailfloater]

@@gulmanrahat6559 cocaine

[@northofthestar388]

Wow man 13 years is rough. Jesus. Do you feel you deserved it? Or was it unnecessarily cruel.? :(

[@Trailfloater]

@@northofthestar388 no I didn’t deserve all that! I did deserve help and a mentor but nothing unfortunately

[@justanothermortal1373]

I think it's because they have nothing to lose anymore

[@fouroverseven7799]

I’m sorry… I don’t feel sorry for these men. I feel sorry for the people they killed and their families.

[@Bringadingus]

You can feel sorry for both.

[@noire9601]

​@Bringadingus Not really... Probably should have gotten the death penalty straight away! Now that's "justice".

[@Bringadingus]

@@noire9601 That would be the barbarian viewpoint, sure.

[@AnAdorableWombat1]

It’s ok to feel empathy for these men. It doesn’t make you weak or soft! It makes you human. Yes they took someone’s life. And for that, they don’t need to be in society. But, empathy doesn’t make you weak. You unhinged nega!

[@jayydakidd5673]

Exactly

[@chatisawasteoftime]

How much money could be saved by releasing these prisoners should never be part of the discussion.

[@RogerioPereiradaSilva77]

It definitely should specially when keeping these men behind bars costs north of 70K dollars anually per individual to the tax payers. I certainly see the point of keeping violent, irredeemable criminals locked in prison "forever" but what benefit does society gain from incarcerating a 80-year old man since 1953 that can't harm a fly even if he wanted to? After all, isn't the rehabilitation of these people the main point of the whole concept of prisons?

[@lightspeedrescue]

​@@RogerioPereiradaSilva77 Say they just throw them out, then what? Leave them to die at the sidewalk beside the prison because they either have no families left, or nobody wants to be associated with them? Okay maybe we throw them out when they can still provide to society; nobody wants them because they have criminal record, too old, etc. They then have to resort to crime. There are a significant population of homeless people that are ex-criminals that were released after parole. Maybe have some critical thinking and realize no decision are good, but they have to keep them because they were sentenced to life with no chance of parole for a very good and specific reason. Life with no chance of parole is only reserved for the most heinous of crime either due to sheer gruesomeness or body count.

[@karanjaggi8438]

@@RogerioPereiradaSilva77 rehab? it's for profit

[@illusionxmuta]

Death penalty could save that money.

[@garycastronova7939]

​@@RogerioPereiradaSilva77a 72 year old judge was just arrested for killing his wife.....

[@14sgdpg82]

September 26th 1953 , i was born 49 years after this man was incarcerated , and here i am watching him another 22 years on , everything i've ever done learnt and figured out and this man has been waiting , 71 years bro

[@uria702]

“Do we really want to be a country that gives no chance to leave prison?” Yes. The life they stole has no second chance, neither should they.

[@nil981]

Amen.

[@valreg237]

Exactly!

[@jackkennerley5329]

@@nil981 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

[@Aquarius-xy7nq]

Exactly 💯

[@qaj4j58fgs6]

Amen!

[@brandenhuffmen8259]

As tough as this sounds, it doesn't matter if they've "become a better person" or "can contribute to society". They are in prison for life for taking someone elses. You don't get to redeem yourself while their family mourns until they pass on. They are where they belong regardless of change. It wouldn't be fair to the victims family to watch them walk out and LIVE FREELY while their loved one is STILL gone.

[@Al-kd6hv]

What about the people serving life that never killed someone? Thousands of cases

[@brandondenver4331]

Exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the peculiar facts of any given case. Most of them can rot in there for all I care, but there are special cases that are worthy of reconsideration. Let's show a little compassion, even if it's the bare minimum.

[@KhristopherPeterkin]

This is coming from a guy who’s lost his grandma to a young man who killed her a long time ago. I definitely don’t agree with your statement and may not care which is also fine. I often wonder what he would be like today if given a second chance. Yes they took a life yes they did something horrible, but at the end of the day she’s never coming back. I sometimes feel like prison isn’t a punishment but a way out, they don’t have to look at who they hurt they are tucked away never to be judged by society again. The only thing I get out the deal is that I’m going to be taking care of this man until he dies. We often judge people not knowing the options THEY have. I hope the ones that are truly reformed get another chance.

[@saudadedude]

It entirely depends on the case.

[@christinalafleur3813]

@@KhristopherPeterkinexactly! I’ve had several family members murdered, and I still wouldn’t wish this on any of the people that killed them.

[@DaniSmith_95]

I think once you turn 80 doing a life sentence you should be eligible for parole.

[@LilBrother94]

RIP Sammy! You're free now Brother 💯

[@BroccoliHead7]

Actually he’s not 😂

[@DixonCider-p3b]

@@BroccoliHead7typical wyt boy,You’re only tough on the internet

[@lafilledanse1]

The pain of the families impacted by violent crime can't be overstated. I can't say I'd be glad to see someone that stole the life of my loved one get out of prison because "they've changed". They've changed but I'm still living a nightmare and my loved on isn't coming back. I definitely believe in rehabilitation but my heart aches for these families.

[@Redawesomeoby]

If the goal of prison is for punishment why do we not rename the department of corrections to the department of punishments or something else like that. Despite the pain, if I were to have a loved one murdered I would prefer to see the murderer contributing to society and being a reformed man rather than having to look at the same person that hurt my loved one, sitting in prison, taking up air that they did not earn.

[@emilypeguero6060]

@@RedawesomeobyI agree with you. My loved one is dead idgaf how long you’re in jail it won’t bring them back!!! What would matter to me was that the death wasn’t in vain.

[@adotholland22]

people dont chance, dna

[@betsy5889]

Nope 👎🏽 Stay Right Where You Are And Do The Good Work You Are Doing ❤ We Are Happy For You That You Have Changed 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@LydiLa222]

Yep!

[@AnAdorableWombat1]

😂😂😂 exactly! I feel empathy for these men, however, the family of the victims are living in eternal prisons every day they are without their loved one

[@frmmyheart2urs880]

you feel that way until its ur son, father, uncle, etc.

[@TruthTALKA]

they took someone's son, father uncle etc @@frmmyheart2urs880

[@erikag7334]

Yes exactly, I agree. They don’t need to be out here.

[@e.c-s8611]

This is such a great story - thank you. And yes my mother was murdered by two (18 & 17) boys - whom I hope after 20 years do change. They are in Texas prison for capital murder - minimum 40 years. They did try to appeal their sentences which they plead to. Sometimes I see really heinous stories and understand use of death penalty - but when I tried to live with hate in my heart - it only sickened me to the point I couldn't and didn't want to keep that kind of hate in my heart. I hope these men are given some consideration for freedom. As it is Our system does not work. But redemption is possible.

[@SeaToSummit-bk1qy]

Jeez, that's absolutely awful. My condolences. If you don't mind sharing, was it some robbery gone wrong? Why did they target your mom?

Why do they call these places Correctional Facilities? Correct people, mentally, psychologically, emotionally, and educationally, so people can make amends for what they have done. IJS

[@reddiver7293]

Unless they are still a threat to society. And, let's be honest, statistically, reoffending is real.

[@Albatros121-ji9nz]

my condolences to your mom I hope those two individuals never see the light of day again

[@Acaidia]

Would you support your mothers murderers getting released?

[@longbeachmaumba7059]

I see things from their perspective but I also see things from the perspective of the family of the life that they took. Tough call.

[@Mcwollybob]

Even when a family doesn't want the convicted person to be given a sentence like this or put on death row, the family doesn't have a choice. Stuff like the death penalty have also been shown to not reduce crime. Long, cruel punishments like this don't usually help. What helps is rehabilitation. Many of the prisons are for-profit prisons run by capitalistic desires to make money off of people's suffering. And when you can make money by imprisoning people, that means there's an incentive to imprison as many people as possible. It's not a coincidence that most of the people imprisoned are people of color, people with disabilities like mental illnesses, and people who were living in poverty. These groups are not given help and compassion outside of prison and instead are screwed over by the societal systems we have in place, so that leads to more oppressed people being locked up. This video mentioned that 70% of the prisoners they were talking about are black. There's something wrong when populations that are way smaller than populations with privilege somehow magically make up most of the people in prison. There's also the fact that so many people in prison have not done crimes as bad as murder, yet those people are also given this same treatment. A prison system built on punishment instead of rehabilitation harms society far more.

[@pabloassante5360]

Yes, but what does the family get by having them locked although they're no longer a threat to society? Revenge?

[@th0master]

@@pabloassante5360 I don’t know, you don’t know, we can’t possibly imagine what it’s like to go trough something like that… we can simply guess

[@dkizzle3135]

@@pabloassante5360 Unfortunately our society still seems to see revenge as a valid reason for punishment

[@BearingMySeoul]

The family of the murder victim of the 80 year old man are probably dead? They should probably include the families in reviews for release. Louisiana is a pretty Christian state. I have a feeling more than half the families affected by these prisoners would be ok with their release.

[@Nobodyspecial5150]

You take a life you give your life no matter your age.

[@derekmoore3105]

Is that really justice though?

[@kodeska8784]

@@derekmoore3105 it would be more fair that instead of giving life sentences you take how many years you took off of the person killed and subtract that from the years they did, that outta be how many years you get. For example lets say I killed someone at 25, usually the oldest people live is somewhere around 100 years, so imma subtract 25 from 100 and i get 75 years in prison

[@leonsmith7525]

@@kodeska8784 THIS.... THATS NOT HOW THE LAW WORKS OR SHOULD EVER WORK....

[@kodeska8784]

Well in that event I'd say you're better off begging the judge for the death penalty

[@KarenSepulveda-y7o]

Mr Robinson you’re most free now ! Sometimes in life we make wrong choices but only a few change their ways ..

[@penguinatedthings305]

A psychopath will say anything to make you feel sorry for them.

[@headhonchotheone9041]

Facts

[@3amDayDreamer]

True

[@CoryASMR]

i was thinking this. I know a psychopath when i see one. Bro cant start over hes 80 years old, thats BS. And also, he shouldnt of killed an inmate while in prison.

[@vitashaw4126]

This touched my heart. Taking care of the elderly and the dying is humbling to say the least. Awesome!

[@theab5867]

Allot people have commented about “murder isn’t a mistake” I agree. But I also wasn’t talking about murder I was talking about “ Making Mistakes” and the repercussions it can have. I think it’s so scary to think your mistakes can haunt you forever. Freedom is earned, you learn from mistakes to keep your freedom as you grow up but a mistake can happen in 60 seconds and freedom can be thrown away forever .🥺😩

[@reddiver7293]

You can put it any way you want. But when you cross some lines, such as intentionally hurting someone and ending their life, you get put away for 2 reasons: 1) to protect society from a killer who might do it again & 2) to punish you for your crime. My humanity responded to these plaintive statements from guys who look like they could be your neighbor or in line with you at the grocery store. But they killed someone. Facts first.

[@ilariabesana]

the victims are also dead forever

[@oldhollywoodangels]

there are mistakes...and there are murders

[@davidwright873]

@@ilariabesana yeah....lets prop them up, let them tell THEIR story...of the life they wish they had, the stories they wish they coulda had.....This is a silly propaganda piece....shameful for sure....

[@blackkitty1774]

@@reddiver7293then put every soldier who’s EVER fired a round and killed a human. They too are murderers.

[@jeffking9202]

This is an excellent, well done, video, with a message that needs to be heard.

[@deadlyoneable]

“70% are black”. It’s the culture folks. You have to be honest and hold it accountable. No positive male figure in a life has bad consequences.

[@Tee-y6w]

I'm black and I completely agree. Once you destroy the family unit, all is lost.

[@Cantthinkofwhatshouldgohere]

Breaks my heart about Chicago

[@crowned7646]

And who’s to blame for the degradation of the culture? How about we hold them accountable.

[@theblackmoth1111]

@@crowned7646 they don’t see the full picture. A black man will be a thug but a white man someone who society will show sympathy too. Redemption is not based on skin color but heart and mind.

[@TheOzzyLover]

This should be required viewing for every citizen of this country. We are causing so much pain.

[@a13-d4p]

@LadieKatie this outlook often brings nought but cyclical offense and misunderstanding.

[@MyBizOnlu]

No, these men caused the pain, all old enough to know right from wrong.

[@johndavis9432]

Why don't you try thinking about the people that these pukes murdered? Think about that BB brain.

[@glw5166]

The man who mentioned that prison does not make a person responsible is absolutely right. I have seen so many people come out of prison who are about the same age mentally that they were when the went in. I think this also contributes to recidivism.

[@BGeezy4sheezy]

There are really some people that are just no good, and need to stay there. But most people can change over time, and deserve a shot at redemption. It also seems ridiculous to keep the elderly locked up; like what are they gonna do to hurt someone on the outside? It’s hard to think of a fair system to decide who’s allowed out, but certainly the current system that throws away people forever ( and most of them didn’t get a fair shot at life to begin with) is not right.

[@glw5166]

@@BGeezy4sheezy Very true.

[@davidroberts7282]

There are millions of Americans who are born, live and have to adapt and survive in harsh, socio-political, economic circumstances but don't turn to crime, or become hardened criminals, rob grocery stores, supermarkets, banks or sell drugs to make ends meet. Your argument is a tired, old cliched one that tries to make excuses for people who commit horrible crimes like murder almost predestined because of their lower-income class status. You might reply and say your argument is more of "an explanation", but even there its falls flat because most working-class Americans don't become hard-core, high recidivist criminals. Its an insult to many millions of more Americans who do it the right way and succeed to some extent but don't commit serious crimes or even misdemeanors. It's ironic but once many anti-death penalty activists said they supported life in prison as opposed to the death penalty, now their " soft hearts" want to allow 1st degree murderers, some of whom are unrepentant and have little to no remorse but put on a good show for useful idiots like you to think they've changed, and get released. Some of them know how to manipulate you so well because they see you as gullible marks, playing on your high-minded ideals and principles of fairness, rehabilitation, and restorative justice. You argue most people can change and yes, human beings do change over the course of our lives, but not as rapidly, or progressively as liberal prison reformers would like to think, and sometimes human beings change for the worst. This isn't some linear progressive model reform pattern of behavior necessarily. And one thing I know having a Bachelor's in Psychology is that sociopaths, maligant narcissicists have no remorse, empathy, and sympathy for their crimes and they believe their the ultimate victims of an "unjust society". You can't change or reform a sociopath, psychopath or a serial narcissicist and often it's not so easy to determine who and where they are because their experts at being good actors, fervently telling you and others everything they think you want to hear and sadly, some of you will fall for it. All because your principles and convictions were unknowingly twisted and manipulated.

[@pierrefab7185]

Locked up since 1953. That one broke me. I’m all for the justice system BUT at some point we have to check on some of these Lifer’s and see if they’ve made progress, see what strides they’ve made in the last 25/30 years. I’m only 30 and I’m not even the same person I was 4 years ago. Imagine 66 years.

[@andreikope2518]

If they can bring back the dead yea why not

[@OS-xt9ii]

That was heartbreaking. At 80 something years old and after spending 66 years in prison, what are we accomplishing really? it's not about rehabilitation or penalizing at this point, this is just about getting revenge.

[@aphrodittee3790]

😢You’re free now Samy! Rest easy now! 🙏🏼

[@MartyHarrison-cx4gu]

So people that brutally take a life should be let out just because they were young ? Tell that to the family of the person that isn't living any more and they are .They were old enough to know what they were doing was wrong. They just didn't care . Now they want the world to show them a type of care they didn't show their victims . Unbelievable

[@savanahishere]

Absolutely! People locked up for that long. Yes they deserve a second chance. White people get a second chance all the time.

[@isntrael]

Actions have consequences

[@magnificenthonky]

Yes. They certainly do.

[@asiaryan8639]

This was absolutely incredible, profound. It really puts time and life into perspective. It gave me chills

[@dogshake]

What gave me chills is imagining what these demons have done to other people. I wonder why the people who made this video did not interview any victims or family of victims of the crimes these animals committed. I bet there wouldn’t be so much reverence for these criminals then. There’s a reason they have life sentences…imagine the families and innocent people who have been hurt by these people. The fact that there’s even compassion for them at all is disgusting.

[@3amDayDreamer]

Maybe don’t commit murder. People don’t understand the value of a life until it’s too late. It’s sad.

[@nessforbes7400]

Imagine your whole life sentence being made into a 10 minute film

[@Deadassbruhfrfr]

It's just a KZbin video. I didn't finish watching it, I got bored 🥱 4/10

[@edwardpiss]

@@Deadassbruhfrfrcookie?

[@CEDL4072]

My ex is in jail right now for attempted murder of his girlfriend. He's looking at 20 to 40 years. I hope he gets the full 40. He had gone to prison before for attacking me but he only served 18 months. Prison didn't change him, it made him worse. So honestly, every situation is different. If it was up to me, my ex should be in jail for life. I guess he was lucky his girlfriend actually survived but I'm sure the trauma will stay forever of course. My attack occured more than 7 years ago but I still have severe trust issues. I have zero friendships and barely a support system. I only feel sorry for the innocently jailed or those serving ridiculously long sentences for something like marrijuana.

[@JRams-ix6bt]

He'll do about 3 years and come out on probation

[@nytoaddis76]

He needs to do 30 years with no parole.

[@erikag7334]

Yes ma’am! Your feelings are valid. I agree with you 100%

[@romystumpy1197]

Spot on,

[@bee12452]

What was his sentencing?

[@notgotaname]

I watch alot of true crime docos and think the killers are pure evil and should never be set free. But seeing things from this perspective really breaks my heart. What a fantastic video, i hope to see more of their stories

[@Simonjose7258]

That's a beautiful sentiment to hear. Life is complicated 😪 Many countries in Europe have an upper limit of 30 years. Not everyone does it like we do. We have a particularly cruel system. Even before they are arrested. Not to many kids from the Upper Middle Class Suburbs in these jails. 70% in for Life are Black and 25% if White men without a high school diploma will be arrested at some point un their lives. Only in America. ❤

[@miamitten1123]

Those documentaries show the must cunning/evil criminals. So of course you feel hate. These men in the video were teenagers when they killed. Probably over dumbshit.

[@iuyozx]

Funny how they play sad music and have the inmates tell you a sob story can manipulate you, huh?

[@TAO_Nupid]

I feel like if the family victims forgives the killer, after seeing they have changed, they should be let free. But if the family is still hurt, keep ‘em locked up 💯

[@michellebattersby3243]

Im a caregiver and these men are correct when you take care of a disabled or dying person....it changes your soul😔i pray for these beautiful men(regardless of their past crimes) some people grow up, learn , do better❤

[@ehsansabaghian5617]

This is a very thought-provoking video. I am going to watch it a few times and think about it for some time. What is the right amount of punishment and justice? And should people have a chance for redemption. That is the main question.

[@NXNX7]

Check the UK legal system. Those sentenced to life serve around 16 years in the actual prison on average. Then released on parole to serve the rest of the sentence in the community. The US system is way too harsh and heartless.

[@BengVideo]

I think there should be a way to apply for possiblity of parole after 20 or 30 years. Of course it should be checked by experts whether it will be granted or not but Being imprisoned at age 80 for a crime you comitted while 17 is just crazy, I do not think they pose any danger with that age honestly. Of course should be banned from having guns regardless if they murdered someone before

[@ra2186]

Can the person that was murdered ever come back? No. Life without parole is the appropriate punishment. You can't redeem what you can't attempt to repay.

[@ra2186]

@@BengVideo So you can murder me at 17. I did nothing wrong but I will never exist again. Never! Then when you're 37, you can get out of prison. You can start a life. You make and have kids. You can live well into your 80's or 90s, which is another 50 years after you got out. Meanwhile, all that time, and forever, I'll just be in the ground rotting. No thanks. That's not a good deal for me as the victim. You forfeited my life and therefore forfeit your life.

[@mikeyy425]

@@ra2186 mute argument. This would imply everyone who was murdered, their killer was sentenced to life. We know thats not true, you have no rebuttal for those

[@andremadethis]

“Every time I invest myself in someone else, I free a part of myself.” That is what wisdom sounds like.

[@hRt42kuo7jTtmk14]

Sad and painful subject with no easy answers or solutions. As humans we watch something like this and it evokes feelings of pity and empathy. But things are more complicated when someone has taken a life. Maybe if some of them were let out and had to remain servants to humanity in some way then that would be a fair solution.

[@ra2186]

Sounds like slavery with extra steps

[@factsreality.3221]

From 17 to 80 I can't even gather my thoughts to think about it. I can just imagine some of the things this man has seen. I know he has stories forever.

[@charlesdarwin7253]

That doesn't make sense. The whole concept of being locked away for life means forfeiting all your freedom and being denied life experiences. Being in prison for decades you'd probably face monotony and boredom like you can't even magine. That's not the same thing as having "stories".

[@IspeakFacts-wx3gv]

When you take another person's life it's fair that you forfeit yours. I have no sympathy for anyone who takes another person's life.

[@jacquelinegoss7271]

Everyone he knew on the outside is dead now. 😢

[@RebeccaBrewer-gi4hm]

To all men whom are doing life 😊it's not about what you want its about what god wants

[@fluffysox6072]

It’s hard to feel bad for them. The reason that they are in prison is because they denied someone else the right to their life. When you end someone’s life, you’ve ended your own. That’s how it should be. Their victims had hopes, dreams, plans and families. These men can beg the court system for mercy, but how many of their victims begged for mercy? Did the inmates provide the mercy to their victims that they now want? I hate to see another human suffer, however, there are two sides to these stories.

[@ECBSJ]

The New York Times really lacking in constructive & useful content these days....

[@Rundmc40]

Not hard for everyone

[@lashlarue7924]

I have no compassion for criminals whatsoever, nor do I believe them when they say they have "changed". Not all of us are suckers for pity.

[@radasokol766]

have some compassion. we are all human beings, we all learn and grow. it is possible to change. you are not the same person you were at 17. you do not make the same choices and if you do i feel sorry for you.

[@lashlarue7924]

@@radasokol766 years of hard living and underlying initial psychopathic traits makes most of them a lost cause. Your compassion doesn't do you any good when you find yourself at the mercy of these types. They only respect strength and if you're weak they will feast upon you.

[@margaridavelhinho1618]

May be if it was someone of your family.

[@lashlarue7924]

@@margaridavelhinho1618 ESPECIALLY if it was someone in my own family who shamed our family name.

[@mandyharrison3799]

Very emotive indeed and one mistake can be life changing. I can see both sides of the argument. Harsh sentences indeed but the families of the victims will live with the pain forever. This video needs to be viewed in schools. Thought provoking indeed.

[@wavystudios4702]

That 80 year old man was locked up 15 years before martin Luther king got killed... THATS CRAZY

[@joewright2304]

For their souls' sake, I hope and pray for each of them. The fact that you regret your actions is commendable, but your victim or victims don't get a second chance.

[@drwalka10]

The narrator sounds like a future San Francisco District Attorney ... all empathy toward the perp and none for the victim

[@Der.Geschichtenerzahler]

Exactly. Typical liberal news channel. These men are paying for the crimes they did and the lives they destroyed. You see they don't give any attention to those who were killed and their respective dreams that were shattered. They don't talk about the relatives and friends of those murdered that probably suffer up to this day. No, let's give the spotlight to the perpetrators of those crimes and twist the sense of justice by implying that keeping them in jail for a lifetime is evil. People do make mistakes and they may change over time, however what is done is done and the outcome for that must be paid any which way.

[@xlkarma8446]

You both need Jesus

[@highlyfavored2434]

Not a single mention of victims or their families or what their families think. Her voice is so irritating , poor journalism without taking a neutral stance while highlighting their plight.

[@Deadassbruhfrfr]

​@@xlkarma8446and you need to grow tf up, and stop defending your thug brothers.

[@BucTown82]

My cousin was murdered by a kid that was 19 years old and he got life without parole. My cousin was my best friend and he’s been gone 11 years now and I still miss him everyday. He was murdered for no reason, so while I do feel bad for some of these story’s but I will never see my cousin again so as long as my cousin is gone I want that man to stay in prison.

[@scoh840]

Maybe next the NYT can do an expose on what it feels like to have your loved one viciously murdered. Maybe they can approach the family 40 years later and see if the loved one is still dead or if they matured, and if the family still misses them. Maybe research what goals the murdered person had for their life. Maybe ask the family if justice has been served. And one more little thing. While interviewing the spouse of the deceased, play some mournful cello music.

[@Bailey2006a]

If one of these guys killed your mother or child, sympathy might be in short supply. Non violent crimes should be considered for parole. No one should be in prison for life for robbing a bank as a teenager. But, let’s face it…in the US you get the justice you can pay for… The hospice program is a great idea.

[@PHlophe]

Bailee, the video isn't telling you that all committed murder and even then its not always telling that it was intentional. and its true that some bank robbers and most drug dealers are lifers also. You need to pay attention.

[@biblereadingmum1239]

In the US ylu get a ridiculously long sentence because the news and the media wants to only pander to the victims families and not greater society

[@beforethestorm7544]

The white guy looks younger now than when he was young

[@BohemianRhapsody324]

Don't cry now 😭....... If you can't do the time don't do the crime!!! I don't care how old you are! There are rules in society we all must abide by. Be a man and pay your debt to society. Nobody told you to take that person's life!!!

[@PrincessPowerranger]

BIG FACTS

[@Parisred1996]

I'm absolutely not the same person i was when I was 17 however I managed to get through it without stealing, pillaging, destroying or killing someone. I understand ALL the socioeconomic factors that cause people to do the things they do but still, actions have consequences.

[@stanleyworthy4163]

I wonder. Ow you guys gonna be acting and how remorseful you gonna be when God has to judge your life and all the laws and commandments you have broken !! JS

[@stanleyworthy4163]

I wonder. Ow you guys gonna be acting and how remorseful you gonna be when God has to judge your life and all the laws and commandments you have broken !! JS

[@posysdogovych2065]

While I have no doubt that they are changed people, prison isn't just about rehabilitation, it's about punishment. This wasn't some minor "mistake." They look the lives of someone who had friends and family who loved them.

[@veevivian8975]

Totally agree

[@BengVideo]

I understand that worst crimes have to be punished badly but if you've imprisoned at age 17 or 18 and you're over 70+ now, gosh, I doubt that you still pose a danger. There should be a way to apply for possiblity of parole after 20 or 30 years. Of course doesn'T mean that it will be granted.

[@ra2186]

Can they bring back the person they murdered after 20 or 30 years? No. That person is gone from existence forever. You decided to be a murderer at 17 or 18 then you just forfeited your one life, just like you forfeited the life of the person you killed.

[@MeeMawPeterson11]

I wonder what the families of the people these men murdered would think.

[@caralhoguy]

⁠@@ra2186smh at ur mindset

[@marketwizard1977]

@@MeeMawPeterson11 who cares what they think

[@biblereadingmum1239]

​@@ra2186you are a wierdo

[@johnpolk2]

There is a lot of wisdom coming from these guys... Hard earned wisdom

[@thechipman2473]

Zero sympathy for them - you take a life you get life

[@damascus21]

Have you committed no sin?

[@thechipman2473]

@@damascus21 Ive certainly not murdered anyone.

[@damascus21]

​@@thechipman2473if you've coldly decided that some people deserve to spend their one existence in a cage the size of a restroom, I would argue that you're an accessory to slow murder.

[@paulbrungardt9823]

@@thechipman2473 Well Said !

[@farhiaabdulahi4888]

@@thechipman2473 maybe not but u don’t have to believe they should be freed to feel compassion

[@NellyMacharia]

For Sammie dying in prison was the most compassionate alternative. He was 89 years old, let him out at that age is cruelty and inhumane. He was old and i bet needed a lot of care and dying among those who he knew was better than letting him out to fend for himself.

[@schwimdandy3820]

I don't have an answer to this situation but I feel less empathetic hearing only one of the interviewees talking about the victim whose life they took and he seemed most sorry about the troubles it caused him. Nobody apologized for killing someone.

[@da---536]

Exactly

[@EireForUs]

Can’t do the time? Don’t do the crime. Zero sympathy.

[@samuhlm2]

The people who have bettered their lives and improved themselves even though they have no chance of getting out are the ones who deserve another chance.

[@zonuphaon]

This video has really shed some light on a situation I didn't know that much about. It's easy to look at all the murderers that walk free and feel like the system has failed, but here are a number of cases of people being kept safely away from the rest of us they could possibly hurt again. The problem is they need to feel more fulfilled during their time serving, because most clearly feel that time inside is unrewarding, which has to change.

[@imtheman4805]

zonuphaon Good luck with that!!!

[@cheeseman0125]

And what were their crimes? What about the victims, who are no longer with us? What about justice?

[@jpe1]

What about justice? You asked the question, and seem to be implying that the longer the sentence the more justice is served, but I don’t see how a lengthy sentence is inherently more just than a shorter sentence.

[@romegrad454]

@@jpe1 for some it's cut and dry. For others, I think it's an internal conflict. How do you define justice? I've seen your responses & some of the questions you've posed throughout this feed & you've done so in a very respectable way. You don't get to see that often on these platforms. But I ask you, how do you define justice. As I was watching these men I had to ask myself, what would be the right thing to do? I honestly don't know.

[@jpe1]

@@romegrad454 thank you for the kind words. I don’t always succeed in making meaningful comments, but my goal is usually to write something thoughtful that might change someone’s mind on a topic, rather than just show off my knowledge or virtue-signal to my in-group; I don’t see much point in “p0wning” someone. As far as justice, I take my inspiration from John Rawls and his book *Justice as Fairness: A restatement* and his three principles of liberty, fair equality of opportunity, and the difference principle. But Rawls main concern was a just _society,_ and we are discussing justice in the sense of crime & punishment. For that I struggle to articulate my beliefs, but I can say that for me justice is much more about addressing the harm done and ensuring the offender doesn’t reoffend, than it is about retribution or revenge. I see far more benefits from the approach of restorative justice, vs straight retribution. I’ll give a personal example: a good friend of mine was killed when he was driving to work one morning and a drunk drive lost control of his car and crashed into my friend’s car. The other driver survived, and eventually was given his 11th DUI conviction, plus a vehicular homicide, and he’s still in jail. I don’t see that as justice. I think a functional justice system would have revoked his license long before he had the opportunity to get an 11th DUI, and would only allow restoring of driving privileges when there was good evidence that he had his alcohol consumption under control. Now, let’s take the hypothetical that he killed my friend in his first DUI instead of his 11th, and was still sentenced for vehicular homicide. I don’t see a long prison sentence as achieving much on its own. I want him to _know_ my friend, know the life he ended, know the other lives he disrupted, to understand the enormous cost of his terrible choices, but years and years in prison will likely only teach him to resent authority and wallow in self-pity and victimhood. If he truly understands the harm done and has genuine empathy after only a short stay in prison, great, let him rejoin society in a supervised fashion and engage in meaningful work to acknowledge the unplayable debt of having wrongly taken another life. To me, that seems much more just, than the idea of him settling into a daily routine in prison, getting his 3 meals and laundry service and TV and recreation and library books… (don’t misunderstand, I don’t resent those things _per se,_ I just don’t want him to be complacent, simply “doing time” without actually giving any thoughts about his actions or the consequences.) I fear I’ve gone off track with this rambling, the comment is too long, it’s late and I’ve had a long day, if I have something more articulate to add in the morning I’ll edit this comment or add another.