Ep 3. Deon

Deon is the third episode of the second season of Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole. The series follows the journeys of incarcerated individuals who were sentenced to life in prison for crimes they committed as children, as they seek clemency and a chance to re-enter society.

In this episode, we meet Deon, who was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for a murder he committed at the age of 15. Through interviews with family members, friends, and attorneys, we gain insight into Deon's upbringing and the events leading up to his crime. We learn that Deon was subjected to domestic violence and neglect as a child, and that he struggled with substance abuse and mental health issues.

As Deon recounts the night of the murder, we see how his young age and lack of impulse control played a role in his actions. We also see the effects of the crime on the victim's family, who testify at Deon's clemency hearing.

Throughout the episode, we follow Deon as he works with his attorneys to build a case for his release, attending therapy and educational programs and expressing remorse for his actions. We also see the emotional toll that his incarceration has taken on his family, including his children, who visit him in prison.

As Deon awaits the decision of the parole board, tensions run high as his friends and family hope for his release, while the victim's family argues that he should remain behind bars for life. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to grant Deon clemency lies in the hands of the parole board, who will weigh his personal growth and rehabilitation against the severity of his crime.

Deon shines a light on the difficult journey of individuals seeking a second chance after committing heinous crimes as children. It raises important questions about the efficacy of life sentences for juvenile offenders and the potential for rehabilitation and redemption.