In nearly all the literature for prison preparation, there's a motto stating that "planning for reentry to the community begins on the first day of a prison sentence." Throughout my prison journey, I scoffed at this quote since nearly no emphasis is placed on preparing inmates to return to the community. It's great rhetoric written without execution. Two years ago, I completed a comprehensive reentry plan that was merely tossed into my file without any consideration. The nearly 20 page plan extensively highlighted aspects of my life and preparations that I would need to be successful and avoid criminality. Personally, I've thoroughly planned well. Two weeks ago, I briefly reflected on the single-paged "planning" document that the prison asks to be completed for reentry. Regardless of the lack of resources and lack of preparatory assistance from the prison staff, felons must plan beyond the scope of prison papers when returning back to their communities.
Having shared the wonderful news that I'll be transitioning back to the community, I received many repetitive questions, which I'd like to share:
Q: Does the prison staff prepare you for life in a halfway house?
A: Nothing. Not at all. The prisons and residential reentry facilities (halfway houses) are two completely separate environments. In fact, nearly all halfway houses are third-party contractors to provide reentry services. Again, the prison staff will say that programming for reentry was offered, but I have not received any of it. For example, standard operations state that a halfway house will send a handbook to an inmate in order to adhere to expectations. I even asked for a handbook for the halfway house and was told that no information was provided. It's within the policy of the Bureau of Prisons that staff will ensure proper preparations are made for successful reentry. Essentially, I will just be released on a furlough to the halfway house without any guidance.
Q: What does one do with personal belongings when they leave prison?
A: Personal belongings are permitted to be taken with an inmate upon leaving a prison. For me, I'll be taking bare essentials...important documents, pictures, toiletries, undies, socks, shoes, and sweats. The rest of my belongings will be left behind.
Q: Are they able to gift any belongings to other inmates?
A: Unfortunately, inmates are not permitted to gift personal belongings and may result in disciplinary action if it is done. Many items are left behind and gifted, especially clothes, shoes, and food, regardless of this policy. Understandably, the policy exists to prevent harassing behaviors and theft from occurring, which is something very common in higher security prisons. In a camp, the "pay it forward" practice (gifting) really helps. Shower shoes are the most important item that a new inmate might need for the showers, so it's quite common to find a used pair on someone's first day. Sadly, I will not be gifting any items, but I will be leaving behind those little things that I will not need leaving prison...if someone wants to go in the trash and take those items, it's on them 🙂
Q: Do you want any mementos from prison?
A: LOL (I actually laughed when I read this question from my sister). ABSOLUTELY NOT! I do not wish to be reminded of this journey. Besides keeping everyone updated of my situation, I kept this blog as a reminder, which will be the only memento I need. They don't have shot glasses or souvenirs that have Morgantown/Texarkana/Oklahoma on them. It is against the prison policy to take possession of government property. I will be leaving with contact information for a few guys that I would like to remain in contact with. Despite the circumstances, I have met some incredibly good guys - just a few that I can count on one hand.
Q: When will you meet your parole officer?
A: This is an excellent question, since parole and probation are often interchanged and confused. The federal prison no longer paroles felons. After a felon has completed their term of incarceration and/or home confinement, they are required to have supervised release (aka probation). The probation officer will oversee the term of supervised release. I do not know who or when I'll meet the probation officer assigned to me. Upon my release in less than 3 weeks, I will have to report to the staff at the halfway house. Then, the probation officer will inspect my residence and approve it for home confinement...THEN, I'll probably meet the probation officer.
I really cannot express how appreciative I've been of all these questions and shared curiosities. As my time of incarceration draws near, I remain excited, grateful, blessed, and speechless with this next step. I appreciate you taking the time to check-in and share your love, encouragement, and support. I hope you have a wonderful start to your week and enjoy the beautiful fall weather. And...continue to be mindful of any little miracle in your life 🙂