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Christian O’Reilly, a Welsh man who was sentenced to four years in prison for drug charges in 2012, has shared how his time behind bars was a “way out” of his criminal lifestyle. After being released in 2013, he established a wedding photography company called Fire & Ice. Before he became involved with drugs, he worked as an engineer with a good salary. However, after socializing with the wrong crowd, he moved from small-time to large-scale drug dealing and importation. Although he was making a lot of money, he hated the high-risk lifestyle and was relieved when he was caught.
According to figures, 26.2% of adults reoffend within a year between July and September 2022. Increasing public awareness and creating employment opportunities for ex-offenders can help reduce reoffending rates. Organizations such as Clean Sheet help people leaving prison to find jobs, and advisory boards aim to increase employment opportunities. CEO Samantha Graham believes employment offers dignity and community, and can prevent individuals from returning to criminal activities. More public awareness is also necessary to dispel negative perceptions of people with criminal convictions.
Christian’s interest in photography began while serving his sentence. He was determined to keep his mind focused and read a book called The Art of Photography. This sparked an obsession, and he purchased his first DSLR camera after his release. He has since established his business and found his passion. He advised individuals to think carefully before engaging in drug crimes – to get out of such bubbles if they can, and focus on positive goals while taking each day at a time.
Christian is an example of how prison can offer a way out of the criminal lifestyle for those who are willing to make a change. Implementing employment initiatives and fostering more public understanding of the underlying factors behind crimes can help individuals reintegrate into society and prevent future criminal activities
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