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Published Nov 17, 2020

432: Larry Lawton | From Jewel Thief to Honorary Cop Part One

Former jewel thief Larry Lawton delves into his transformation from a notorious criminal mastermind to an advocate for reform, sharing tales of his intricate heist strategies, insights into criminal minds, and his harrowing experiences in prison that fueled his commitment to juvenile justice and systemic change.
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  • Prison Life

    Larry Lawton's time in prison was marked by extreme challenges and harsh realities. He described the brutal environment where young inmates often faced manipulation, violence, and even rape, leading many to join gangs or become addicts 1. Larry emphasized the inhumane conditions, such as the use of solitary confinement, which he experienced for three years, causing severe psychological damage 1. He also highlighted the lack of basic human rights, like the denial of sanitary pads to female inmates, which he found particularly appalling as a father 1.

    The hole fucks you up. There's no question. I mean, I have PTSD, we know that. Obviously, I'm from the military. I have PTSD and I'm retired military with that as well, but prison just screws your head up and you go to the hole, and your sensory deprivation. It's so crazy. It's so inhumane.

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    Larry's experiences underscore the urgent need for prison reform, particularly in how young offenders are treated and rehabilitated 2.

       

    Post-Prison

    Life after prison for Larry Lawton has been a journey of advocacy and reform. He discussed the immense challenges faced by former inmates, especially those who entered the system as juveniles and spent decades behind bars 3. Larry pointed out the systemic issues, such as the execution of juveniles and life sentences without considering the immaturity of young offenders' brains 4. Despite these obstacles, he remains committed to social justice and criminal justice reform, drawing from his own experiences to push for change.

    They would give juveniles life sentences without extenuating circumstances. Are you kidding me? Listen, the science has proven that the male brain does not mature 25. And now you're telling a kid who's 16, "Oh, your life's over. You're never going to change," whatever it is.

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    Larry's story is a testament to the possibility of redemption and the importance of addressing the root causes of criminal behavior 3.

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