Bone Valley: Bonus Episode | Restoring the Way
Host: Gilbert King
Production: Lava for Good Podcasts in association with Signal Co. No1
Release Date: December 21, 2023

Introduction

In the Bonus Episode of Bone Valley, titled "Restoring the Way," host Gilbert King delves deeper into the life of Leo, an inmate at the Florida Department of Corrections. This episode offers a poignant look into Leo's journey as he transitions from Hardy Correctional Institution to Everglades Correctional Institution, highlighting the challenges and transformations he experiences through the Corrections Transition Program (CTP).

Background

Bone Valley explores the harrowing case of Michelle Schofield's murder in 1987 and the subsequent wrongful conviction of her husband, Leo, who served decades in prison before new evidence exonerated him. Fifteen years post-conviction, fingerprints linked a violent teenager, Jeremy Scott, to the crime, leading to Leo's release and Jeremy's confession. This episode focuses on Leo's current life and his efforts to reintegrate into society.

Transition to Everglades Correctional Institution

The episode begins with a heartfelt conversation between Gilbert King and Leo, where Gilbert provides an update on Leo's recent transfer to Everglades Correctional Institution in Miami. Leo has been actively participating in the Corrections Transition Program (CTP), preparing for parole and eventual reintegration into the community.

Key Highlights:

• Challenges of Transition: Leo discusses the emotional and psychological difficulties of leaving Hardy, where he had established a support system and a sense of purpose.

  [02:31] Leo: "Leaving was really, really difficult. I was involved in a lot of things that were part of the functioning of that particular institution. Coming here, I was essentially nobody and lost those roles. It was still really tough."

• Journey Details: He describes the arduous journey from Hardy to Everglades, including the physical discomfort of the bus rides and the procedural hurdles like property checks and strip searches.

  [03:41] Leo: "The bus rides are notorious... It's hot, and it's a miserable ride. Even the new buses are better, but you're still handcuffed and shackled."

Experience with the Corrections Transition Program (CTP)

At Everglades, Leo is part of one of 79 men undergoing the CTP, which focuses on preparing inmates for life post-release through various classes and workshops.

Program Structure:

• Educational Pursuits: Leo has been taking multiple classes on resocialization skills, job interviews, and self-esteem, even teaching some himself.

  [09:48] Leo: "I took 13 classes last semester, which was a bear... We're learning how to deal with certain addictions and overcome them."

• Support from Florida International University (FIU): The program collaborates with FIU students who provide practical lessons on modern life skills, such as using cell phones and navigating contemporary technology.

  [13:03] Leo: "FIU students come in and show us how to live it... They live with us in it, they're absolutely amazing."

Struggles with Accountability and Claim of Innocence

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Leo's internal conflict within the CTP framework, which emphasizes accountability for one's actions—an expectation Leo grapples with due to his innocence.

Key Insights:

• Program Expectations vs. Personal Truth: Leo finds it challenging to align the program's accountability focus with his claim of innocence.

  [17:21] Leo: "CTP is not full of guys who are innocent... I can't be accountable for a crime I didn't commit. It was difficult because he's wanting to get me in the place where I'm being accountable, which I'm not."

• Moral Inventory: Despite these challenges, the program has facilitated Leo's personal growth, allowing him to reflect on his past behaviors and take responsibility for aspects of his life unrelated to the crime.

  [17:21] Leo: "I've been able to take a really strong moral inventory of my own life... My life before this crime had taken place was pretty rocky."

• Emotional Resilience: Leo discusses how reflecting on his past has helped him manage anger and resentment towards those who wrongfully accused him.

  [17:21] Leo: "It has allowed me really to not be so angry with Jerry Hill and people who have accused me of something that I didn't do."

Personal Reflections and Growth

Throughout the episode, Leo shares heartfelt reflections on his transformation during his time in the CTP. He acknowledges his past immaturity and recognizes the importance of personal development, which has been pivotal in his journey towards reintegration.

[17:21] Leo: "I don't want to be a bad person. I think I was an immature person. I didn't really have a chance to grow up and become who I would be until I got here."

Conclusion

In "Restoring the Way," Bone Valley offers an intimate portrayal of Leo's struggle and resilience as he navigates the complexities of proving his innocence while complying with programmatic expectations of accountability. The episode underscores the transformative power of supportive programs like CTP and highlights the nuanced challenges faced by individuals striving to rebuild their lives post-incarceration.

Through Gilbert King's empathetic interviewing, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the human side of wrongful convictions and the ongoing journey towards personal redemption and societal reintegration.

Notable Quotes:

• Leo on Leaving Hardy:

  [02:31] "Leaving was really, really difficult... I was essentially nobody and lost those roles."

• Leo on Bus Rides:

  [03:41] "The bus rides are notorious... You're still handcuffed and shackled."

• Leo on CTP Challenges:

  [17:21] "I can't be accountable for a crime I didn't commit. It was difficult..."

• Leo on Personal Growth:

  [17:21] "I've been able to take a really strong moral inventory of my own life."

This episode of Bone Valley serves as a compelling exploration of the intersection between justice, personal growth, and the systemic challenges within correctional programs. It provides valuable insights for listeners interested in criminal justice reform, wrongful convictions, and the power of rehabilitation programs.