Prison journalism: Addressing the need to prevent repeat offenses among ex-convicts

Prison journalism: Addressing the need to prevent repeat offenses among ex-convictsWesley Leong was incarcerated at the age of 15 in 1996 at Pollsmoor Prison. He is currently part of Restore's research and reintegration project.

by Wesley Leong

10-10-2023 16:46

in Prison Journalism

Wesley Leong was incarcerated at the age of 15 in 1996 at Pollsmoor Prison. He is currently part of Restore's research and reintegration project.

Photo: Pixabay.com

I have spent many days in neighborhoods where I have come across battling the odds at every turn. Sadly, I cannot say that there is any positive motivation or a source of making a living, so they resort to what they know best: crime! They discuss making changes, but nobody wants to employ them, and they have to survive out there. The NGO that I am a part of, Restore,' strives to make changes and provide ways to create a system that enables earning a living when the system fails us.

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The Dilemma of Prison Survival vs. Life Outside To be completely honest, to say that it is easier to survive in prison than outside is a scary fact for ex-inmates. Even though it is easier said than done, the better option is to be outside than in prison. Many have potential, but there are no means to help them apply their skills. I myself have almost given up when it gets too much, but I do believe that the days that break you are the days that make you. So, my question is, what can be done to prevent these individuals from becoming repeat offenders?

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Empowering Ex-Convicts Through Workshops and Engagement I personally believe that arranging workshops for engagement can be a solution. When I was in prison, there were workshops and firms that kept the inmates busy. Every time I speak with fellow ex-inmates, the topic always revolves around why we do not involve the community and the government to assist. That's where pressure can help with the current situation. One inmate always mentioned to me about the community assisting and why they can assist, as without the community, our efforts will be in vain.

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The Prison Incident and its Aftermath There was an incident in prison where the prison arranged for an open day where relatives, I guess, could visit and provide performances for us. The day started well, and some inmates enjoyed themselves. Sadly, some inmates exploited the situation, and it turned into chaos. It was a day I will never forget.

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Inmates started stabbing one another, and the Numbers gang robbed the guests, leaving them with nowhere to go for protection. Even the wardens were in trouble. One lady was grabbed in a cell where she was raped and stabbed to death. It was Maryann Mysett. I tried to defend myself and prevent the guests from being hurt. I moved around the prison, doing everything in my power to help when I could. That day, I was put in a position where I had to choose between them and the guests. One of my higher gang members saw what I was doing and had my back then, so you can imagine what I had on my hands that day.

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This was a 3-hour ordeal where gangsters, inmates, wardens, and outside guests were running around the prison. They were burning things, some inmates were wearing members' clothing. I had never experienced anything like it before. It was like a Hollywood movie. Eventually, EST (emergency, support, and tactics) entered the prison with members of SAPS and put an end to the mayhem. To put it bluntly, it was a bloodbath. I was stabbed twice that day while trying to prevent further harm to the guests and fellow inmates. I was bitten by dogs, beaten up, and shocked by the police.

When it was finally under control, two inmates were reported dead, along with 3 guests, and 34 inmates seriously injured. I recall the day seeing ambulances and forensics moving around and treating those who were injured. Among those were the correctional officers reported dead.

So, I came back to the prison to try to assist those ex-cons in order to prevent them from repeating similar offenses again. I personally believe that whether an ex-convict is committed to change or not ultimately comes down to the individual. It's up to them whether they want to commit to the change or repeat the old ways.

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Restore': a Beacon of Hope for a Brighter Future Restore' is a wonderful program that I am fully committed to, not only for the benefit of society but also for the youth and the future of the country. We are dedicated to identifying those genuinely wanting positive change. As for myself, I am grateful for the opportunity I have as a part of Restore' and to be part of the movement towards change in our society. I am completely dedicated to making a change. If you are reading my article, you too can be part of the future. They say you cannot change the world, so instead, become the change you want to see in the world. Together, we can make a difference.

Should you wish to assist in the rehabilitation of former inmates and help put money into the pockets of those who have struggled to earn a living during and after incarceration, click HERE

DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received

RESTORE is an NGO based in Cape Town, South Africa, providing inmates at Pollsmoor Prison with restorative justice opportunities.

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