Ep 1. Western Tidewater, VA: Family Ties

Beyond Scared Straight season 6 episode 1 takes place in Western Tidewater, VA and is titled "Family Ties". This episode focuses on a group of young people who are headed down the wrong path in life, engaging in behaviors such as gang activity, drug use, and theft. The teenagers are brought to the local jail to participate in the Scared Straight program, which is designed to show them the harsh reality of prison life in hopes of deterring them from a life of crime.

The episode features interviews with both the teens and their parents, who express their concerns about their children's behavior and share their hopes for a better future. The parents also participate in the Scared Straight program, accompanying their children to the jail to witness first-hand the impact of their actions.

One of the main focuses of this episode is on a young man named Jamal, who is deeply involved in gang activity. His mother is concerned for his safety and his future, and hopes that the Scared Straight program will help to open his eyes and change his behavior. As he participates in the program, Jamal is confronted with the reality of life in prison and the potential consequences of his actions.

Another teen featured in this episode is a young woman named Jenna, who has a history of drug use and theft. Her mother is at a loss as to how to help her daughter and hopes that the Scared Straight program will be a wake-up call for her. As Jenna is introduced to the inmates and sees the impact of a life of crime, she begins to rethink her decisions and consider a different path.

Throughout the episode, the teenagers are exposed to the harsh reality of prison life, including being berated by inmates, seeing the cramped and uncomfortable living conditions, and witnessing the intense violence that occurs within the walls of the jail. The hope is that these experiences will help the teens to see the consequences of their actions and motivate them to make better choices in the future.

Overall, Beyond Scared Straight season 6 episode 1 is an emotional and eye-opening look at the consequences of a life of crime. The show is not only important for the teens who participate in the program, but for viewers at home who may be struggling with similar issues. Through the Scared Straight program, there is hope that these young people can be set on a path towards a brighter future.