Ep 12. Rita and Chanel

Women Behind Bars is a gripping documentary series that provides an in-depth look at the lives of female inmates at various prisons across the United States. Each episode delves into the stories of the women behind bars, exploring their backgrounds, crimes and life in prison.

In season 1, episode 12, viewers are introduced to two inmates named Rita and Chanel. Rita is a middle-aged woman who was sentenced to 25 years to life for murder. Chanel is a young woman who was convicted of robbery.

The episode begins by examining Rita's history. Viewers learn that Rita grew up in a rough neighborhood and got involved with drugs at a young age. Shortly after turning 20, Rita was involved in a robbery that went wrong and resulted in the death of her accomplice. Despite claiming that she did not kill anyone, Rita was convicted of murder and sent to prison.

Next, the episode shifts its focus to Chanel. Viewers learn that Chanel grew up in a middle-class family and had no prior criminal record. However, after falling into debt and struggling to make ends meet, Chanel decided to commit a robbery. She was immediately caught and sentenced to 5 years in prison.

Throughout the episode, viewers get an inside look at the daily lives of Rita and Chanel in prison. We see them in their cells, interacting with other inmates and participating in various programs offered at the prison. We also get to hear from each woman as they reflect on their pasts, their crimes and their hopes for the future.

One of the most poignant moments of the episode comes when Rita speaks with her daughter on the phone. It's clear that Rita deeply regrets the choices she made in her youth and the impact they've had on her family. She tells her daughter that she hopes to be a better person when she gets out of prison and make amends for her past mistakes.

Chanel, on the other hand, struggles with the reality of being in prison. She's overwhelmed by the boredom and isolation of prison life and worries about what her future will hold once she's released. Despite this, Chanel remains determined to better herself while in prison and take advantage of the programs and education opportunities offered to her.

Overall, season 1, episode 12 of Women Behind Bars is a thought-provoking and emotional look at the lives of two very different women serving time in prison. It serves as a reminder of the complex and often tragic circumstances that can lead someone to a life of crime, and the difficult journey that awaits them when they enter the justice system.