A&E’s Family Lockup documentary series showcases a radical program established to try and mend the relationship between inmates and their relatives. The 10-episode docuseries focuses on a groundbreaking program that places estranged relatives behind bars alongside their incarcerated relative.
“So much of a person’s ability to succeed after incarceration comes down to whether they have the support of their family and loved ones. The ‘Family Lockup’ program shines a light on the critical role relationships play in breaking the cycle of recidivism,” stated Sheriff Nick Cocchi of the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO). “When we can help rebuild trust and strengthen these bonds inside the jail, we give people a real chance to stay out for good. This series shows that rehabilitation is not just about the individual—it’s about healing families and communities too.”
Family Lockup will premiere on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at 10pm ET/PT.
Executive producers include Greg Henry, Kim Woodard, Isaac Holub, George Kralovansky, Miranda Johnson-Smith, and Mona Scott-Young. Stephanie R. Gayle, Michael Lang, Elaine Frontain Bryant, Shelly Tatro, and Brad Abramson also serve as executive producers. The series is produced by Lucky 8 and Monami Productions for A&E Network.
A&E offered this description of the new docuseries:
“Family Lockup follows a groundbreaking reentry program in which estranged family members of inmates attempt to rebuild their broken relationships from within prison walls to help their incarcerated loved ones regain the support that can help them stay out of jail—for good.
The series tracks family members who spend two nights behind bars, alongside their inmate-relatives, in the Hampden County Jail in Hampden County, MA, part of an initiative instituted by Sheriff Nick Cocchi that redefines correctional rehabilitation and spotlights the critical role family dynamics play, both in incarceration and in the reintegration of individuals for whom jail can be a revolving door. The series will follow 10 families as they navigate this transformative journey.
The series also features Psychologist Dr. Jeff Gardere, who facilitates intense sessions between inmates and their loved ones to rebuild fractured relationships and foster empathy that can make a crucial difference upon an inmate’s release. Confronted with the stark reality of incarceration, family members risk their own safety to resolve issues and mend broken bonds as they attempt to provide a lifeline they hope can turn things around.
With no guarantees, family members must ultimately decide if they can stay in the inmates’ lives or will need to cut ties. Will the process help pave the way for healing and reunion for these 10 families or will some inmates find themselves facing reintegration alone?”
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