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Carlos Rebollo is a central figure in HBO’s latest documentary, Nature of the Crime, which premiered on Tuesday, December 10, at 10 pm ET/PT. This documentary investigates the intricate parole process in the U.S. criminal justice system, highlighting Carlos’s journey.
The circumstances that led to his incarceration at the age of 15 are thoroughly examined, granting viewers a profound comprehension of his situation. Carlos Rebollo was arrested for arson and attempted murder during a violent assault in 1998.
He forced his way into Grace Glen's home and hit her 19 times in the head with a heavy object, severely injuring her. This act and subsequent parole violations resulted in harsh legal penalties. Carlos was sentenced to 45 years in prison and given a $500,000 bond, highlighting his seriousness and community threat.
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After serving 24 years in adult prisons, Carlos was released on October 31, 2022. He is now pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Multi-Platform Journalism at the University of New Haven. He resides in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and uses his background to promote social justice and criminal reform through media.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from HBO’s Nature of the Crime. Reader's discretion is advised.
A glimpse of Carlos Rebollo's life in prison
When Carlos Rebollo was locked up at 15, he faced several problems. He was initially placed in solitary confinement and given a lime green jumpsuit. He spent a week locked up alone before being moved to a security risk unit with older gang members.
Carlos reportedly got multiple discipline tickets for property damage and fights. He endured constant punishments, including 23-hour lockdowns and strict handcuff rules.
As he mentioned in the podcast, Part I – Carlos Rebollo Incarcerated At 15 Years Old on November 1, 2023, with Prison: The Hidden Sentence:
"Within a month, I had already been through so much violence and solitary isolation that I was already getting the idea that my life was in shambles. Chronic discipline consisted of 23-hour lockdowns."
Even though these things were hard, Carlos kept his end of the deal. He eventually finished the program and agreed to a plea deal that sentenced him to 45 years in prison. Later, he applied for parole.
The parole process of Carlos Rebollo unmasked
Every year, thousands of people like Carlos Rebollo apply for parole to rejoin their communities. Nature of the Crime shows how parole boards make decisions. The documentary emphasizes political influence and lack of oversight that cloud judgment. Carlos Rebollo's parole process was long and difficult, reflecting systemic issues with the criminal justice system.
Inside Nature of the Crime
Directed by Ricki Stern and Jesse Sweet, Nature of the Crime offers unprecedented access to parole hearings and legal preparations. The film follows Carlos Rebollo, Todd Scott, and Chad Campbell through multiple parole hearings after decades in prison. It depicts the parole process through interviews with attorneys, family members, and former parole board members.
During his time in prison, Carlos was resilient and self-improved over time. He earned an associate's degree in psychology in prison and is now studying multi-platform journalism. His transformation from a troubled youth to a hopeful graduate shows prison rehabilitation.
The impact of Public Act 15-84
Public Act 15-84, passed in Connecticut in 2015, helped Carlos get parole. To account for teen brain development, this law requires parole boards to consider offenders' ages at the time of their crimes.
After 24 years in prison, Carlos Rebollo's case was reevaluated under this reform. The act helped him get parole and set a precedent for juvenile offenders seeking second chances.
Life after incarceration
Since his release, Rebollo has focused on rebuilding his life and helping society. He is pursuing higher education and developing journalism skills to shed light on criminal justice issues.
Carlos's story inspires others on similar paths with hope and determination. His efforts to maintain family relationships, especially with his son, demonstrate the importance of support systems in reintegration.
The role of mentorship and education
In prison, Rebollo was educated and mentored, which eventually transformed him. Carlos saw a future outside prison after participating in personal and academic development programs. His education gave him valuable skills and empowered him to control his destiny.
The moral dilemma
Nature of the Crime questions justice and rehabilitation. It asks if Carlos Rebollo deserves a second chance and how society can balance victim needs with offender redemption. The documentary questions the parole system and the long-term effects of juvenile incarceration.
Nature of the Crime is available to stream on HBO.
