Teenagers behind bars<\/p>\n
While most teenagers spend their time having fun with their
\npeers at malls or cinemas, some are behind bars, in youth
\npenitentiaries for a range of juvenile offenses.<\/p>\n
This series of photos highlights teenagers at the youth
\npenitentiary in Tangerang, Banten. These youths were jailed after
\nbeing convicted of crimes including drug trafficking, theft,
\nrobbery, sexual abuse and murder.<\/p>\n
Their now-disciplined days start each morning, when they
\nattend classes in the penitentiary school compound. After school,
\nthey are trained in handicraft making, engine repairs, sewing,
\nart or cooking.<\/p>\n
Some of the youths, many of whom are from disadvantaged or
\nabusive backgrounds, say they suffer from loneliness and sorrow
\ninside, while others remain optimistic about their future. --
\nText and photos by R. Berto Wedhatama<\/p>\n
Photo A: BAR<\/p>\n
A young youth with tattoos on his back draws a mural inside his
\ncell. Creativity inside the jail is encouraged.<\/p>\n
Photo B: BAR<\/p>\n
A youngster cooks soup at the jail's kitchen for fellow inmates.
\nThe prison's management only allows trusted prisoners to use
\nknives.<\/p>\n
Photo C: BAR<\/p>\n
A sculpture of a concrete diary reads: \"We transgressed the law
\nyesterday, we are now learning, and tomorrow we will become law
\nenforcers\" in the prison's yard. The sculpture aims to instill
\noptimism in the hearts of the young convicts.<\/p>\n
Photo D: BAR<\/p>\n
Inmates are allowed to relax in the afternoon.<\/p>\n
Photo E: BAR<\/p>\n
An former inmate wears a red badge that indicates his status as a
\nsocial worker in the jail compound. When the youths are released,
\nthey can apply to become volunteers to help rehabilitate other
\nprisoners.<\/p>\n
Photo F: BAR<\/p>\n
Young inmates give a victory sign. Despite having lost their
\nfreedom, the youngsters are still able to share light moments in
\njail.<\/p>\n
Photo G: BAR<\/p>\n
Wearing jeans and a T-shirt, an inmate enjoys a meal.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/teenagers-behind-bars-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }