Watch Innocent Behind Bars

Innocent Behind Bars is a thought-provoking documentary series available on CuriosityStream. The show takes viewers inside the experiences of individuals who were wrongly convicted of crimes they did not commit. The series highlights the flaws in the justice system which led to wrongful imprisonment and the toll it takes on the people who have been affected.

Each episode of the series follows the journey of one or more individuals who were convicted of a crime they did not commit. Viewers will get a glimpse into the lives of these individuals and their families before and after the wrongful conviction. The series also sheds light on how such miscarriages of justice happen and the effort and determination required to prove one's innocence.

The show features first-hand accounts from exonerees, lawyers, investigators, and activists as they recount the stories of wrongful imprisonments. The accounts are both painful and heart-wrenching as they detail the struggles faced by incarcerated individuals, especially since they are isolated from the outside world and unable to communicate with their loved ones. The series represents a powerful critique of the justice system and how it can work unfairly against the marginalized.

Viewers will witness how the people portrayed in the series navigate the trials of wrongful imprisonment; their attempts to clear their names, find justice, and move on with their lives once released. Exonerees offer poignant reflections of their struggle to re-integrate and re-adapt to society after their harsh experiences. Some had served decades in jail, missing out on many life events such as the birth of their children and the death of their loved ones.

Innocent Behind Bars also contextualizes wrongful convictions with the ethical issues surrounding them. Sidebar segments explain and discuss topics such as how a lineup can influence eyewitness identification or how false confessions can be coaxed out of suspects. The additional context provided by experts elevates the show from a simple wrongful conviction sensationalist series to an informed and reasoned take on the criminal justice system.

Despite the serious nature of the series, there is a genuine sense of hope and redemption throughout the series that viewers will find both comforting and inspiring. The show celebrates the strength, resilience, and determination of people who were wrongfully accused, tried, and convicted of crimes they did not commit. The exonerees' hope and willingness to fight for justice inspires viewers to believe that such injustices can be prevented and that people can prevail over adversity.

Innocent Behind Bars shines a bright light on the consequences of wrongful convictions, not only on the accused but on the entire justice system. The series helps viewers to appreciate the impact of such errors, and it takes the time to humanize the victims of the justice system. Each episode leaves a lasting impact, reminding us of why we must strive to prevent wrongful convictions from happening and advocating for reforms that protect the innocent.

Innocent Behind Bars is a sobering and powerful documentary series that showcases the alarming frequency of wrongful convictions in the United States. The stories of those who have suffered through such despairing and challenging experiences are heart-rending and inspiring to watch. The series is a must-watch for all who believe in justice and the rule of law.

Innocent Behind Bars is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between May 26, 2022 and on CuriosityStream