One man shares his story after 22 years in prison

SALISBURY, Md. — As the pandemic continues, Maryland officials say they have found it hard to keep track of recidivism rates across the state.

That’s why they say reform programs inside prisons are so important. The states attorneys office says too many inmates are re-offending, but it’s not all bad news. One man tells me what it takes to be successful once you are released from prison.

“I don’t think I would have changed much, however, I don’t think I would have become the man that I am today had I not gone through that experience,” says reformed citizen Roland Jones says.

That experience is 22 years served after being convicted of armed robbery. Today Roland Jones is a reformed citizen living and working in Salisbury. Wicomico County States Attorney Jamie Dykes attributes Jones’s success story to his lengthy sentence.

“The most effective method from my perspective is prison sentences that incapacitate offenders to a point in time where they are older and less likely to commit violent offenses,” says States Attorney Jamie Dykes.

Jones says that more time is not a bad thing, that is, if you do the right thing with your time.

“Alternatives to violence, it was just a 3 day workshop initially but once you went through the course and what not you could actually go back for training and become a facilitator which I did, says reformed citizen Roland Jones says.

Jones also says he was able to learn more about himself as well. His advise for those who may have faced time or are even being released soon –

“Just become grounded within yourself and realize that you can become whoever and whatever you so choose as long as you put forth the effort. Its life what you put in anything you’re going to get out of it,” says Jones.

Dykes reinforces that a support system can also help with re-entry into society.

“It is a problem that has plagued our community and communities like us for years I would say people need effective support systems,” says State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes.

And Jones acknowledges that it might not be an easy process, however, it is possible by making a few changes.

“You can’t continue to do some of the things with the people that you did if you’re trying to move forward in life so you’re going to have to get away from something’s, you’re going to have to move toward others,” says Roland Jones.

Jones is coming up on his 6 year anniversary of his release. He tells 47ABC he realized that life is worth living, his experience inside taught him more about his strengths, weaknesses, and triggers. Ultimately, helping him refocus on becoming a contributing member of society.

The Maryland State attorneys office also says they are working with community organizations to find better ways to support the recently incarcerated.