Ep 2. Extended Stay: You Feel Me?

In Lockup season 5 episode 2, titled "Extended Stay: You Feel Me?", viewers are taken inside the Santa Rosa Correctional Institution in Milton, Florida. This episode focuses on the inmates' relationships with their families, specifically through phone calls and visitations.

The episode opens with footage of inmates receiving phone calls from their loved ones. Some express excitement and gratitude, while others seem anxious or aloof. This sets the tone for a deeper look into the complex dynamics of family relationships that exist within the walls of Santa Rosa.

One of the inmates featured in this episode is Michael Jackson (not the singer), who has been in prison for over 20 years. He speaks candidly about how difficult it is to maintain a relationship while incarcerated and how he worries about his family forgetting him. He describes the different coping mechanisms he has developed over the years to deal with the pain of separation from his loved ones.

Another inmate, Lathanial Williams, has a visitation with his daughter. He talks about how important it is to him to maintain a strong relationship with her, even though she was born after he was incarcerated. However, he also struggles with feelings of guilt and regret for not being there for her during her formative years.

The episode also features a group of inmates who are part of a "family council." This council meets regularly to discuss their experiences with visitations and phone calls and offer support to one another. Members of the council express how difficult it is to be away from their families for extended periods and how important it is to maintain communication and a sense of connection.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse into the hardships faced by both the inmates and their families. It explores the challenges of staying in touch, the financial burden of phone calls and visits, and the emotional toll of separation. However, it also highlights the resilience and determination of the inmates to maintain their bonds with their loved ones.

Overall, "Extended Stay: You Feel Me?" is a poignant and insightful episode that offers a unique perspective on incarceration and family relationships. It is a reminder that behind every inmate is a complex web of emotional connections and a story worth telling.