Plot Synopsis

In their efforts to reduce the number of children in prison, some states are trying a new approach that includes shorter sentences and an emphasis on rehabilitation. Children placed in these correctional facilities must complete a treatment program, and their willingness to participate has a direct impact on their release date. LOCKDOWN: KIDS is a two-part special that focuses on two youth correctional facilities in Indiana. Seventeen-year-old Cyleina has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for armed robbery, but if she sticks to the rules at Madison Juvenile Correctional Facility -- Indiana's only prison for girls -- her sentence could be reduced. For Nathaniel, after the 18 months it took to complete his treatment program, it may be time to rejoin his community -- but a panel of prison staff has to determine whether he's ready. At Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility in Indiana, 180 juveniles are serving sentences for crimes including battery, armed robbery, arson and murder. Garrett and Tavarius are friends and roommates who need to complete a sex offender's program before they can be released. Christopher, age 15, is having trouble with step one in the rehabilitation process: admitting his offense. Eighteen-year-old William, a repeat sex offender, is on his fourth trip to the Department of Corrections. With limited support from their families, these boys will have to face what they've done and show some serious improvement in order to rejoin society.