“This works,” a Los Angeles police officer said as he escorted 23 at-risk kids through San Quentin Prison.
In his two previous trips to San Quentin, Officer Gus Tarin said he noticed an immediate, positive impact on the behavior of youths he brought inside the prison walls.
“The program is a real eye-opener,” said Tarin. He indicated some of the kids have the same issues as guys in here, and “that’s huge” when it comes to communicating with troubled teens, he added.
One of the young visitors, Roman Jackson, commented, “The people in here are just like us.”
The message from prisoners for the children: Learn how to make it to prison, because you’re headed here if you keep on doing what you’ve been doing..
Tarin has come to San Quentin with the SQUIRES program to give kids a chance to experience prison, showing them where they might wind up if they don’t shape up.
The San Quentin visit exposes young men to all aspects of prison life. From cellblocks to outside Condemned Row, the visitors experience the sight, sound, smell, feel, and taste of prison. Inmates conducted the tour for the youngsters.
This is one of the best ways to discourage bad behavior, said Edwin Henderson of On A Mission, Inc., a Los Angeles not-for-profit organization specializing in at-risk youth.
The young people learn there are two sets of rules they must follow: rules imposed by the state, and inmate-originated rules.
The SQUIRES program was started in 1964, based on an idea that some young people on a path to prison need a reality check. It was launched by Death Row inmate Ross Patch Keller, who hoped it would help his son change his behavior. It originally was the basis of the “Scared Straight” and similar programs, but evolved into more of a counseling and mentoring focus.
The latest visit was coordinated by the Los Angeles Police Department.
The Southwest Division of LAPD has an office designated specifically to work with troubled teens. The Community Relations Office (CRO) reaches out to the troubled teens and interfaces with Henderson’s program and others to counsel and mentor at-risk kids.
CRO officers wear regular uniforms and provide the kids a role model. They have a gym and work out with the young men. They take snow and mountain trips together. They combat obesity with activity programs. And they bring them to San Quentin.“This program tells it like it is,” said CRO Officer Cecilia Frausto.
“Each time I come to San Quentin, I am enlightened.” Said CRO Officer Oscar Ibanez,
“I’m going to think a little more differently now!” said visitor David Ennis.
Kevin Watson said his visit would have an important impact on his future.
