Spain: At Home Behind Bars
35 minutes, 2004
Ref: 79tvc

Ramón Cano Justicia is 56 years old. He was orphaned when he was 13 and his first crime was stealing a bicycle. He's been in prison for 31 years and now he openly admits not wanting to be released. He has become an "institutionalized" prisoner; jail has become his home and his family. After so many years behind bars, he can't cope with the idea of freedom. In fact, it frightens him. This report tells the story of Cano Justicia, a model inmate who recalls having committed about 190 thefts when out on the street. Though he never spilled any blood, he is serving a 38-year sentence for property-related crimes and for offenses committed when out on permit, including not returning to prison. We take a close look at Cano Justicia's life in prison and accompanies him during his first breath of freedom in many years. But this pass is special - it may be the ticket to a new life.