LIW27-I Was a New Jersey Correctional Officer Here s Why I Walked Away After 3 Years - Locked In With Ian Bick

Laquan Roos opens up about his transformative journey from the streets of Jersey City to becoming a correctional officer, and the pivotal moments that led him to walk away from it all. After surviving multiple gunshot wounds as a teenager, Laquan fought to rebuild his life, initially taking the noble path of law enforcement. He candidly reflects on his upbringing in a large family with strong educational ties, where his mother inspired him through her teaching career and his father's work at UPS provided a stable foundation. Yet, the challenges of switching schools, grappling with juvenile troubles, and the shadow of violence loomed over him. Laquan recounts the fateful night he was shot three times, revealing the gripping details of that harrowing experience—an event that served as a wake-up call, igniting a desire for change. Encouraged by this life-altering moment, he pursued a career in corrections, eager to affect positive change. However, his idealism clashed with the realities of the justice system. As Laquan navigated the complexities of working in a correctional facility, he felt his identity being stripped away, treated more like an inmate than a protector. His experiences led him to profound realizations about systemic issues within law enforcement and the societal perceptions that complicate justice. Ultimately, Laquan shares the moment he made the gut-wrenching decision to resign, feeling betrayed and frustrated by the system he once believed in. A blend of nostalgia and newfound clarity prompts his reflections on both his struggles and triumphs. Now, as a fitness trainer with aspirations to open his own gym, Laquan's journey stands as a testament to resilience and the power of second chances, urging listeners to reconsider their views on criminal justice and personal redemption.

Categories: Law