Back on the rails after drink and drugs

Andy T was sentenced to prison in July for his part in the aggravated robbery of a service station.

The Pacific Islander was armed with an axe at the time.

Andy (not his real name) had been brought up a Christian, but went off the rails through drink and drugs. He finally resorted to crime to feed his drug habit.

But after a month in prison, witnessing fights and other forms of physical and verbal abuse, Andy decided to find God again.

"I wanted to get back to my roots, to the way I was brought up."

He was accepted for the faith-based unit. Though the initial stages were hard, and change was slow, he eventually learned to treat everyone with respect and an open heart and mind.

"Some of the guys comment if they see me talking to [prison] officers, but I say, 'They're just normal people, like you and me'."

While in the faith-based unit, Andy has completed courses in employment skills, parenting and living.

He has also completed the Christian programme.

"I'm thankful that something like this has been opened up to us. I'm thrilled at the changes I've accomplished while being here." 

He is now determined to be a good father to his children. Andy hopes his new-found beliefs will also lead to a reconciliation with his family.

While aware that he will face temptations again once he leaves jail, he is confident he can resist them.

"I actually want to see if I can change some of my friends."