Life Means Life
Bloody Angola: A Podcast by Jim Chapman9 Marras 2023

Life Means Life

In today's podcast episode of Bloody Angola we tell you 3 short stories of Life at Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola including the story of Warden John Whitley who started his professional life and ended it at Angola, the story of Billy Blake Johnson who lost his life attempting to escape Angola, and the Prison View Golf Course which makes "Life" better for the Correctional Officers at Angola.#bloodyangolapodcast #LifemeansLife #JohnWhitley #Podcast #LouisianastatepenitentiaryGET FREE BREAKFAST FOR LIFE AT HELLOFRESH!HelloFresh delivers step-by-step recipes and fresh, pre-portioned ingredients right to your door. First, you set your meal plan preferences with options for carnivores, vegetarians, calorie-counters, and more. You'll choose from 30+ delicious weekly recipes carefully put together by the amazing chefs!Click Here to get FREE breakfast FOR LIFE!www.Hellofresh.com/BloodyAngolafreeTRANSCRIPTBLOODY ANGOLA PODCAST: LIFE MEANS LIFE
Jim: Hey, everyone. Welcome back to Bloody Angola, a podcast, 142 years in the making the complete story of America's bloodiest prison. And I'm Jim Chapman. Woody Overton could not join us today. We're working on some big, big stuff. And Woody's on assignment, that's all I can say. But there's going to be some really big stuff coming around the bend for everybody, so look forward to that. And I thought today, it would be fun to tell you some of the stories of Angola that you may not be familiar with, that aren't necessarily stories that can fill up, like, a whole hour of content, but at the same time, need to be told and are really good stories. So I wanted to share those with you, and we're going to jump right into it.
The first story I'm going to tell you about is actually about a former warden of Angola by the name of John Whitley. And John Whitley was actually the warden of Angola from 1990 until 1995. Look, John Whitley, the prison warden, was probably as prototypical as you can get to a prison warden when you would think of one. Kind of like the opposite of Burl Cain. Burl Cain was someone that, when you saw him, you wouldn't think he was the warden for the largest maximum-security prison in America. Same thing with John Whitley, but on the total opposite end, he is exactly what you would picture. He was a cowboy character. Actually, wore a cowboy hat and dressed with button up shirt. The picture I'm actually looking at now, he has a vest. It's almost like a leather vest over that button up shirt, and wears glasses, mustache, just looks like someone you would picture as a warden. And had a short but storied history at Angola relative to being a warden. Although he started off at the very bottom, and we're going to tell you all about that.
John Whitley attended Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, Louisiana, which is actually probably about an hour and 20 minutes from Angola. From where we record, right outside of Baton Rouge, it's actually about a half hour from us. It is I guess the second largest college in Louisiana outside of Louisiana State University. Good college. Whitley attended that college. He was actually born in Hammond, Louisiana as well. So he went to school same place he was born in. Now, after he left college, he ended up graduating in 1968. He enlisted in the United States Army. That's important. That was an important step in his life, because that was kind of in the heyday of Vietnam. People weren't necessarily just enlisting into the army. They were getting drafted. So it shows you John Whitley's courage and his commitment to his country that he would enlist in the United States Army. He actually served during the Vietnam War and was discharged in 1970.
Now, shortly after that, he started his career in corrections. So Whitley started that career at Angola in 1970, and he rose pretty much through those ranks quickly. He eventually became a deputy warden, and then he was promoted to warden of another Louisiana prison. So he was deputy warden at Angola. I know you've heard about us talk about Hunt Correctional Center, which is a prison, it's kind of like the baby brother to Angola, just a smaller, not so violent a prison as Angola. They needed a warden, and he actually got promoted to the warden of Hunt Correctional. From there, he left the state, and he ran a private prison in Texas. I know you've heard us talk about that with the private prisons are actually-- they're not ran by state employees. They're ran privately, and the state pays them for that service, and Texas has several of those, and he ran one of those private prisons in Texas.
Now, in 1990, Louisiana was like, “Man, what's going on here? This guy is in Texas, and he's got all this experience. He's a Louisiana guy, and we need him at Angola.” This was 1990, and Angola was in just a mess at that point, and they needed someone to restore order there, basically. At the time that they were seeking out John Whitley, they were having frequent, very frequent stabbings, suicides. They were dealing with a lot of escapes. And a US federal judge had actually declared, what's known as, a state of emergency at the prison in response to an ACLU lawsuit against the state specifically for the horrendous conditions at Angola. So it was a situation where they needed someone, not only with some Louisiana ties that really cared, but they also needed someone that had the experience to handle such a prison. John Whitley started there, rose all the way up to deputy warden. That was back since 1970. He was the perfect candidate for that. And so he took that job.
Within two years, Whitley had pretty much stemmed all of that violence. He established incentives for good behavior, which is something they did not have in Angola prior to his arrival there as warden. Some of those incentives for good behavior, he'd allow the inmates to have extra visits. He would increase the educational opportunities for the inmates. If you were good, maybe you had the opportunity to learn a trade that you had to have good behavior in order to get to learn, like maybe welding or something. I mean, you don't want someone that's causing a bunch of trouble in Angola getting a halt to a welding machine. So those things, he figured out-- He figured out the important thing-- When you're running a prison, and that is you've got to have incentives for the inmates. If there's no incentive for good behavior, they're not going to be good. That's just the bottom line.
So that was something he really stemmed, education wise for them. Also, literacy tutoring, computer and paralegal courses. He started bringing those into the prison not quite at the level that Warden Cain did later on, but the infancy of that is a credit to John Whitley and the things that he did. So he also enabled some trustworthy and deserving inmates to travel outside of the prison as part of some athletic teams and inmate bands that provided entertainment for-- They would entertain churches, they would entertain nursing homes and other charitable organizations throughout the area. John Whitley was kind of the guy who came up with the idea to start offering these things as a deterrent, if you will, against violence. He knew that these programs were the way to start.
So he also launched an outreach program to all the criminal justice programs in the state of Louisiana. So he would basically send prison officials and inmates, and they would go into these college classrooms, and they would help, both the students and the faculty better understand the realities of not only managing a prison, but life in prison as an inmate. Those things weren't done, at least with Angola inmates, before John Whitley became warden.
Now, one thing that's very important in prison, but is not commonly practiced, I guess you could say, is having an open-door policy with the media. Take it from me, y'all know that I love to research. It's not easy at all to find information about Angola, or probably most of your state prisons, and that is, they keep things that go on inside that prison, and you got to really dig to find information on stuff like that. But he was committed to, what I would call, an open-door policy with the media, and even The Angolite, which-- We've done several episodes about The Angolite and read many, many articles on that.
Well, The Angolite, the biggest concern with that magazine as time went on, and I noticed this as I was reading it was, it got a little farther and farther away from what was actually happening. What they were printing was the truth. But where in the 40s and 50s, when The Angolite was produced, they were talking about all these escapes and stabbings and all the things that happened inside that prison. When it got around to the 80s and 90s, it was a lot softer. There were things going on, but they weren't allowing The Angolite publishers or editors, rather, to print that [chuckles] or talk about it. And so didn't necessarily mean it wasn't going on. It's just the editors weren't putting it in there. But he wanted to have a welcoming nature with the media and try to cooperate with them rather.
And so one of the things that he allowed The Angolite to do was to produce material for radio and television journalism inside the prison, which-- Believe it or not, they have their own radio station there. They have a lot of film equipment there. They can actually film documentaries and stuff. The prisoners actually learn how to do this, and are as good as-- They got some producers in Angola that are as good or better than I am at doing that. Some of them probably better, and just amazing people out inside that prison that produced these things. But he didn't want them censored. The claim is that John Whitley did not censor the radio shows and stuff that were coming out of Angola, which is very interestin

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Hurricane! Part 2

Hurricane! Part 2

In this episode of "Bloody Angola," Woody and Jim continue to explore the catastrophic effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on Louisiana's prison system through the government report that came out after the storms.They detail the urgent evacuation of thousands of inmates amid the chaos of Katrina's devastation and the subsequent challenges posed by Rita. Celebrating the successful transport of over 7,500 inmates to safety, and highlight acts of heroism during these events. Timestamps03:59 Hurricanes Katrina and Rita11:20 Aftermath of the Storms11:30 The Fate of Convicts14:20 Evacuating Southernmost Parishes18:57 Jefferson and Orleans Parish Evacuations32:57 Evacuating Orleans Parish Prison42:16 Successful Rescues Amid Chaos#hurricane #prison #katrina #rita #louisiana #podcast #bloodyangola Sponsors:Go to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Join us on Patron for commercial free, early releases and much more HERE:Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh: hellofresh.com/freebloodyangolaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bloody-angola-podcast-by-woody-overton-and-jim-chapman/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

19 Syys 202449min

Hurricane!

Hurricane!

In this episode of Bloody Angola Podcast Woody and Jim discuss the impact of Hurricanes Katrina and Ida on the prison system.We recount the chaotic conditions during Katrina, where inmates like Dan Bright were left in flooded facilities without adequate emergency measures. As we turn to Hurricane Ida, we discuss what if anything was learned in response to the storms as it relates to prisons from the eyes of the inmates.Timestamps05:14 Hurricane Katrina's Nightmare12:56 The Aftermath and Evacuations19:57 Legal Actions 23:18 Lessons from Hurricane Ida35:59 Preparing for Future Storms In PrisonSponsors:Go to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Join us on Patron for commercial free, early releases and much more HERE:Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh: hellofresh.com/freebloodyangolaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bloody-angola-podcast-by-woody-overton-and-jim-chapman/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

12 Syys 202444min

Investigating Hunt Correctional

Investigating Hunt Correctional

NOTE:Nothing discussed in today’s podcast has been adjudicated and no investigation is complete so anything reported in this podcast on the subject of Hunts Correctional are allegations made by whistleblowers and no wrong doing has been found as of this recording.It is very important to mention that the VAST majority of the employees at Hunt’s are amazing people and as we say often, there is good and bad in every profession. In this episode of Bloody Angola, we discuss a major investigation into the severe drug-related issues at Hunt Correctional Center in St. Gabriel Louisiana, revealed through whistleblower accounts and WBRZ News Baton Rouge. Alarming overdoses among inmates, the role of a privileged inmate in drug trafficking, and high-ranking officers at the facility are all being investigated by the Louisiana State Police at the request of Gov. Jeff Landry and we catch you up on what is being alleged by whistleblowers and what the state is doing about it.#Huntscorrectional #prison #jefflandry #jamesleblanc #bloodyangola #podcast #woodyoverton #jimchapman #louisiana Timestamps:03:07 Whistleblower Revelations06:55 Inside the Inmate Experience10:43 Leadership Changes in Corrections16:39 Governor's Investigation Begins19:31 Tragic Overdose Incidents22:21 Employee Arrests and Accountability24:19 New Leadership Takes Charge26:00 Ongoing Drug Problem ExposedGo to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Join us on Patron for commercial free, early releases and much more HERE:Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh: hellofresh.com/freebloodyangolaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bloody-angola-podcast-by-woody-overton-and-jim-chapman/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

5 Syys 202436min

Mistaken Identity

Mistaken Identity

In "Mistaken Identity," *Bloody Angola* recounts a wrongful arrest during a 1993 traffic stop and a wild two days in on of Louisiana’s most notorious Parish Prisons.Timestamps01:30 Young, Wild and Free08:46 The Encounter with Law Enforcement11:55 Arrival at East Baton Rouge Parish Prison26:10 Life in the Holding Cell35:37 The RevelationGo to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Join us on Patron for commercial free, early releases and much more HERE:Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh: hellofresh.com/freebloodyangolaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bloody-angola-podcast-by-woody-overton-and-jim-chapman/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

29 Elo 202446min

Back to the Beginning

Back to the Beginning

In this episode of Bloody Angola podcast we go back…to a long lost interview you need to hear when woody and Jim came up with the concept for Bloody Angola.A special bonus drop for everyone!Timestamps02:42 Interview with Woody and Jim06:01 History of Angola Prison08:47 Collaboration Between Hosts11:55 Guest Appearances and Stories14:54 Graphic Content and Expectations19:00 Unique Aspects of Angola Executions23:20 Research and Historical Context26:35 Conclusion and PromotionsGo to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Join us on Patron for commercial free, early releases and much more HERE:Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh: hellofresh.com/freebloodyangolaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bloody-angola-podcast-by-woody-overton-and-jim-chapman/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

27 Elo 202433min

The Murderous Canton Brothers of New Orleans

The Murderous Canton Brothers of New Orleans

In this episode, The gripping tale of the Canton brothers is told, whose fateful robbery on Halloween 1911 led to the tragic murder of attorney Edgar Farrar Jr. and their subsequent arrest, sensational trial and the aftermath spent behind the wire, inside of Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola.Timestamps01:30 The Canton Brothers' Crime09:23 The Murder of Edgar Farrar Jr.12:48 The Trial Begins14:02 A Mistrial and New Trial17:13 Verdicts Rendered21:51 A Letter of Clemency29:29 Changes in the Prison SystemGo to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Join us on Patron for commercial free, early releases and much more HERE:Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh: hellofresh.com/freebloodyangolaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bloody-angola-podcast-by-woody-overton-and-jim-chapman/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

22 Elo 202441min

Extreme Heat Part 2

Extreme Heat Part 2

In this episode of Bloody Angola, we delve into the second part of Extreme Heat, discussing a civil lawsuit by inmates against the prison. We examine the backgrounds of the inmates named as plaintiffs, detailing their convictions for serious crimes like murder and armed robbery. The discussion covers the judge's ruling on Eighth Amendment violations due to extreme prison temperatures. We also explore the Angola Prison Rodeo, focusing on inmate Myron Smith.Legal developments include a federal judge ordering improvements for inmates working in extreme heat on the farm line, addressing allegations of inhumane conditions and forced labor. The conversation delves into the state's responses, and the aftermath.Timestamps02:19 Inmates' Criminal Backgrounds06:56 Myron Smith: From Rodeo Champion to Plaintiff 11:40 Federal Judge's Order on Angola Conditions25:36 Inmates' Victories and Public Response29:05 Legal Strategies and Inmate Advocacy30:58 Inmate Law Libraries and Defense StrategiesGo to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Join us on Patron for commercial free, early releases and much more HERE:Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh: hellofresh.com/freebloodyangolaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bloody-angola-podcast-by-woody-overton-and-jim-chapman/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

15 Elo 202437min

Extreme Heat

Extreme Heat

In this episode, Woody Overton and Jim Chapman examine the legal battle unfolding at Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, where inmates are challenging the brutal working conditions in the fields. The lawsuit alleges many issues in the prison including the lack of breaks, absence of clean water, inadequate equipment, and extreme heat that endanger the prisoners' well-being. Plaintiffs like Myron Smith, Demarius Jackson, Nate Walker, and Darius Williams share the unjust treatment and unsafe practices they endure, invoking constitutional amendments prohibiting cruel punishment and involuntary servitude. We cover the lawsuit, the result and the aftermath in this episode.Timestamps05:53 Lawsuit Filed Against Angola State Penitentiary12:56 Overview of the Voice of the Experienced (VOTE)16:41 Plaintiffs Introduction: Myron Smith, Demarius Jackson, Nate Walker, Darius Williams30:37 Psychological Risks and Administration of the Farm Line35:33 Individual Allegations: Myron Smith39:48 Individual Allegations: Darius Williams42:48 Individual Allegations: Nate Walker43:00 Individual Allegations: Demarius JacksonGo to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh: hellofresh.com/freebloodyangolaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bloody-angola-podcast-by-woody-overton-and-jim-chapman/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

8 Elo 202450min

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