I was sent information about a documentary series that is set to premiere on the National Geographic Channel. I cannot vouch for it because I have not seen it but am passing along information to those who might be interested in watching it. I have to say upfront that I worry about the fact that the series of documentaries will be featured on National Geographic. This is not because I do not have the utmost respect for that franchise but because I worry in general about the “spectacle” aspect of punishment and imprisonment in our culture. That being said, here’s the relevant information:

HARD TIME: The Hustle
Tuesday, February 1 at 9PM ET/PT

Go inside the underground prison economy at Ohio’s Ross Correctional Institution and see inmates try their hands at different money-making strategies. A “jailhouse thief” brings his street ways within jailhouse walls, brutally robbing inmates and selling their possessions. A drug dealer on a 27-year sentence for attempted murder struggles to stay “clean” after getting caught up selling contraband at the orientation prison.

“Coffee Currency” – In prison, the going rate for little extras is measured in tablespoons of instant coffee.

“Viking or Victim” – In prison, you have to size up your fellow inmates quickly.