Watch Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole

Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole is a gripping reality television show that revolves around young people who were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for committing heinous crimes. The show follows three convicts, Preston Chavers, James Wiley, and Bobby Gonzales, and their respective legal teams as they seek a path to freedom.

The documentary starts by examining the legal landscape surrounding juvenile life sentences. In 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that mandatory life sentences without parole for juvenile offenders are unconstitutional. This landmark decision paved the way for many young prisoners to be considered for parole or sentence reduction. The show explores whether these once-young offenders can be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society, and whether they deserve a second chance.

One of the convicts featured on the show is Preston Chavers, who was sentenced to life at the age of 15 for killing his grandfather. He is now in his 30s and has spent the majority of his life behind bars. Despite his past, Preston is a model prisoner who has taken advantage of every opportunity for rehabilitation. He has earned a degree, completed various programs, and mentors younger inmates. Preston's legal team is determined to convince the parole board that he has been transformed and is ready to re-enter society.

Another convict on the show is James Wiley, who was sentenced to life at the age of 16 for murdering another teenager. James has already served more than two decades in prison and has become a respected leader among his fellow inmates. He has also taken steps to better himself by enrolling in college courses and participating in various programs. However, James's legal team faces an uphill battle as they try to convince the parole board that he has truly changed and is no longer a danger to society.

The final convict featured on the show is Bobby Gonzales, who was sentenced to life at the age of 17 for his role in a gang-related murder. Bobby's case is particularly complex because he was technically not the shooter, but rather an accomplice. Despite this, he was still given a life sentence without parole. Bobby has spent the past two decades in prison, and during that time, he has been recognized for his leadership skills and for his efforts to help others. His legal team believes that he is ready to be released and is working hard to convince the parole board.

Throughout the series, viewers get an inside look at life in prison, as well as the legal and emotional struggles faced by the convicts and their families. The show also delves into the broader issues surrounding juvenile life sentences, such as racial disparities and the long-term effects of trauma.

Overall, Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged show that asks difficult questions about justice and rehabilitation. It challenges viewers to consider whether young offenders who have committed violent crimes can truly change, and whether society should give them the chance to do so. The show also shows us the harsh conditions of a juvenile prison and the negative impact these sentences can have on an individual's life. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the criminal justice system and its impact on young individuals.

Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole is a series that ran for 2 seasons (19 episodes) between April 30, 2019 and on A&E