Changelog Interviews Refactored in prison
May 23, 2025
Preston Thorpe, a software engineer and open-source contributor currently incarcerated, shares his extraordinary journey of transformation and redemption. He discusses how his time in prison has allowed him to refactor both his skills and identity. Preston highlights the power of coding as a vehicle for personal growth and the crucial role of community support. He reflects on his past struggles, the importance of education behind bars, and what lies ahead as he prepares for release—a story of resilience and hope that inspires change.
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Early Prison Entry and Drug Scene
- Preston's entry into prison started with drug addiction and involvement in a unique and early dark web drug distribution scene.
- His youth and ego fueled risky behavior leading to his first incarceration at age 20.
Prison Life Destroys Hope
- The prison lifestyle rarely leads to genuine success or freedom.
- Spending extended time in prison deeply damages hope and identity without intervention.
Life-changing Transfer to Maine Prison
- A denied transfer to Massachusetts prison turned into a life-changing move to Maine's more rehabilitative system.
- Maine's prison culture and educational opportunities helped Preston start focusing on self-improvement.