(Sanctioned) Prison Escape Eases Transition Out

Inmates in a work program designed to benefit the community say it gives them the opportunity to transition back into society.

“I’m trying to give back for the damage that I’ve done.” said inmate David Casey, who was working alongside Bill Ranucci who added, “It gets (us) back into working at and taking responsibility."

The two were part of a group of non-violent inmates making improvements to a Marlborough Housing Authority building Monday as part of the sheriff's work program. The CWP program saved communities an estimated $1.36 million in municipal projects in 2012, according to the Sheriff's Office.

“It’s good to get back out into civilian life," said Ranucci. “It gives you time to get back out into the community.”

The work program is something prisoners must apply for and remain on good behavior to enter, explained Middlesex Sheriff Peter Koutoujian. But the work is more than just physical labor, said Ranucci.

"I'm phasing into society," he said.

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The program gives them an ability to get back into a working routine, he said. This transition has allowed him to enter a work routine in the world outside of prison before his release.

“It takes the anxiety away," said Ranucci. “It helps me to prepare for that transition.”

The benefit to the community was not lost on the pair of inmates. Casey said he was happy to improve the public housing units in which many elderly people reside. His mother lives in a similar unit, he explained.

“I feel like I am giving back in some small way,” said Casey.