Ep 1. Before the 60 Days

Before the 60 Days - Episode 1 (Season 8)

In the gripping premiere of Season 8 of "60 Days In", titled "Before the 60 Days," a new group of brave civilians are ready to take on an extraordinary challenge. This highly acclaimed reality TV series takes viewers deep into the heart of the criminal justice system as participants voluntarily enter jail facilities undercover, posing as inmates to uncover information about the inner workings of the jail. With unprecedented access to their experiences, viewers are given a raw and unfiltered look into the world of incarceration like never before.

"Before the 60 Days" establishes the initial stage of the experiment, where seven courageous participants prepare to spend two months undercover in Indiana's Clark County Jail. The season's diverse group of civilians includes Gabrielle, a young woman determined to prove herself; Jaclin, a self-proclaimed master manipulator; Jazmyn, a deejay seeking to inspire those who have lost their way; Brandon, an ex-Marine on a mission to expose corruption; Devin, wanting to make a difference in the lives of inmates; Vivian, a mother eager to understand her son's life choices, and Mike, a former corrections officer aiming to make positive changes from within the system.

As the episode begins, the participants are introduced to Sheriff Jamey Noel, the mastermind behind this innovative program designed to expose flaws within the jail system. Each civilian must convince real inmates and officers that they are just like them, starting their journey as undercover inmates. However, the stakes are high, and if their true identities are revealed, their lives could be in serious danger.

With the participants' safety at the forefront of their minds, Sheriff Noel and his team work meticulously to ensure the ruse remains intact. They establish cover stories and provide a thorough briefing on the do's and don'ts within the jail environment. Yet, despite the preparation, nothing can adequately prepare these volunteers for the challenges they are about to face.

Once inside the jail, the participants are confronted with the harsh realities of life behind bars. From the moment they step through the cell doors, the atmosphere is intense and unsettling. The claustrophobic cells, the constant surveillance, and the ever-present threat of violence create an overwhelming environment that forces each participant to confront their fears and test their limits.

In "Before the 60 Days," viewers gain an unrivaled understanding of the daily struggles experienced by both inmates and correctional officers. As the participants try to adapt to the harsh conditions, emotions run high, and tensions flare. They must navigate through numerous power dynamics, cliques, and an intricate web of unwritten rules to survive. The potential consequences of making a wrong move are always lurking around the corner.

Throughout the episode, the participants make their first connections with real inmates, forming alliances that may serve to protect them or provide valuable information. The civilians must navigate through the complex social structure of inmates while facing the constant scrutiny of both fellow inmates and officers. Trust and deception become powerful tools in this challenging environment, as they decipher who can truly be trusted.

As the days turn into weeks, the participants face increasing difficulties, both physically and psychologically. The relentless stress creates a rollercoaster of emotions as they grapple with the harsh realities of their surroundings. Viewers are granted a front-row seat to witness the personal transformations occurring within each participant, as they question their preconceived notions and confront their own biases about the criminal justice system.

"Before the 60 Days" marks the beginning of a compelling journey for this new group of participants, as they strive to complete the two-month program undercover. With danger lurking around every corner, their determination and resolve will be put to the ultimate test. How will they navigate the treacherous waters of jail life? Will they be able to gather invaluable information to impact positive change within the system? These questions, and many others, will captivate viewers as the season unfolds.

"60 Days In" Season 8, Episode 1, "Before the 60 Days" sets the stage for an intense and dramatic exploration of the challenges faced by participants who voluntarily expose themselves to the realities of incarceration. Through their eyes, viewers will gain a new perspective on the profound complexities of the criminal justice system while examining the human stories that unfold within a jail's walls.