Ep 1: Evelyn Bozon Pappa - From Life Sentence to Freedom

Can personal decisions transform your life, even when faced with the harshest penalties? Join us in “Justice Then, Justice Now” as we, Tobias Roche and Evelyn Bozon Pappa, navigate through our 30-year journey in the criminal justice system. This episode unfolds with Evelyn sharing her profound story of spending 26 years in prison, emphasizing the pivotal role of honesty, clear conduct, and respect. Discover the unexpected sense of community, educational opportunities, and support systems inside the prison walls that played a crucial part in her personal growth and resilience.

Imagine being the first female in the U.S. to receive a life sentence without parole and then walking out of prison decades later. Evelyn’s extraordinary journey from incarceration to freedom is a testament to the power of second chances. We recount her time in Tallahassee's maximum-security prison, the unwavering support from correctional officers and her family, and the heartwarming reunion with her loved ones. Her transformation into a role model and the poignant moments of meeting her grandchildren for the first time highlight the remarkable changes in the legal system and the enduring hope for those awaiting their own second chance.

Our conversation also explores the essence of personal decisions during incarceration, the unique dynamics of a joint task force between the DEA and US Customs agents, and the significance of maintaining hope and faith. By sharing our experiences and the bonds formed along the way, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system from multiple perspectives.