Ep 1. Oklahoma City, OK: Tears of a Clown

Beyond Scared Straight is a reality TV show that follows at-risk teens as they are taken to visit prison facilities and interact with inmates as part of an effort to discourage them from a life of crime. In season 8 episode 1, the show focuses on a group of teens from Oklahoma City, OK in the episode titled "Tears of a Clown."

The episode begins with a brief introduction of the teens, who range in age from 14 to 17. They are shown engaging in typical teenage behavior such as smoking, fighting, and skipping school. They are then taken to meet a group of inmates at a nearby prison. The inmates, who are all serving time for various crimes, discuss their experiences in prison and the impact it has had on their lives.

The teens are then taken on a tour of the facility and shown the various living conditions and cells. They are shocked by the lack of privacy and the cramped conditions. The inmates also discuss the dangers of prison life, including violence, sexual assault, and drug use.

Next, the teens are introduced to a group of correctional officers who share their experiences dealing with troublesome inmates. The officers discuss the importance of respect and obedience, and the potential consequences of not following the rules.

The highlight of the episode comes when one of the inmates, a former gang member, opens up to the teens about his past and the mistakes that led him to prison. He talks about the downward spiral that led him to a life of crime and the emotional toll it had on him and his family.

The teens are visibly moved by the man's story, and many of them begin to cry. They are encouraged to share their own struggles and the reasons they have been acting out. The atmosphere becomes emotional as the teens confront their own most challenging behaviors and reflect on the impact those behaviors have on their own lives.

Throughout the episode, the teens are shown interacting with the inmates and correctional officers, admitting their fears and struggles, and expressing their desire to change. The show's ultimate goal is to provide a wake-up call to the teens and help them make positive changes in their lives, and "Tears of a Clown" is no exception.

Overall, episode 1 of season 8 of Beyond Scared Straight is a powerful and emotionally charged episode that is sure to resonate with viewers. The combination of personal stories from inmates and the struggles of at-risk teens is both moving and inspiring, and the show's ultimate message of hope and redemption is one that viewers will not soon forget.