Are 'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' inmates safe? Eric Higgins' unique program keeps prisoners awake at night

'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' inmates felt unsafe as the doors opened without any security
UPDATED APR 10, 2024
Eric Higgins' experiment removed the 23-hour lockdown and provided the prisoners more freedom in the absence officials in the jail (@netflix)
Eric Higgins' experiment removed the 23-hour lockdown and provided the prisoners more freedom in the absence officials in the jail (@netflix)

LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS: Netflix recently released the explosive episodes of 'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' leaving Arkansas inmates on edge throughout sleepless nights. Eric Higgins' social experiment removed the 23-hour lockdown and provided the prisoners more freedom in the absence of police officials in the jail.

However, the inmates stayed awake at night to avoid potential tragedies. In the Netflix show, inmates felt unsafe and worried that the open doors could lead to violent settling of scores, especially for those with ongoing disputes. While some prisoners slept with eyes wide open, others were ready to start a fight if anyone entered their cell to stab them.

The Arkansas inmates claimed that they didn't trust each other and expressed concerns due to the unpredictable nature of the jail environment, filled with fellow criminals. While the first night passed without any major incidents, a county man attacked Tyler while he slept, assaulting him with a flip-flop. Tyler further revealed, "He also told me he was watching us sleep."

'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' inmates spent sleepless nights (@netflix)
'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' inmates spent sleepless nights (@netflix)

'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' splits inmates into groups

Sheriff Eric Higgins wanted to create a community within the jail for the betterment of the inmates with his social experiment. However, 'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' divided the young and old inmates into groups which could create chaos and potentially put a halt to the experiment.

However, Sheriff Higgins reflected on the conflict of opinions and said, "There's some mindsets that say, 'Well, the older guys, they're experienced, and you get them on board and that rubs the whole unit." "And the younger folks will do what they say.' He claimed, "That's a nice idea you know."

Netflix star elaborated, "The younger guys have a different opinion. The younger folks don't want the older folks telling them what to do."

Sheriff Eric Higgins reflects on inmates diving into groups (@netflix)
Sheriff Eric Higgins reflects on inmates diving into groups (@netflix)

Inmate Randy Randall wants to run the jail

'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' inmate Randy Randall, who was in prison for domestic assault and drug possession, wanted to be in charge of the jail. He started to plot plans soon after Sheriff Eric Higgins introduced the inmates to the social experiment. He discussed with the other inmates and also assigned them tasks to prevent potential confrontations.

Randy wanted to create a power group and encourage fellow prisoners to adhere to the rules. Excited about the experiment, he adopted the title of 'vibe boss'. Nonetheless, he remained prepared to take any measures necessary to ensure the seamless continuation of the Netflix show experiment.

Inmate Randy Randall wants to run the jail (@netflix)
Inmate Randy Randall wants to run the jail (@netflix)

'Unlocked: A Jail Experiment' is available to stream on Netflix.

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

One tribe lost the immunity challenge and headed to the Tribal Council for the second week in a row
18 hours ago
Galaxy Girl drops a clue about Vegas, but her identity remains just out of reach as guesses keep missing the mark
20 hours ago
Two masks drop on ‘The Masked Singer’ as a TV judge and a musician reveal themselves, making the competition more intense
22 hours ago
Kelly Clarkson returns to ‘The Voice’ amid personal loss, using a powerful Super Steal to reshape her team as Battle Rounds begin.
1 day ago
A rising ‘American Idol’ hopeful steps away after a life-changing diagnosis, choosing fatherhood over fame
1 day ago
The previous seasons had the judges determining the ultimate fate of the contestants, but 'American Idol' Season 24 seeks to change that.
2 days ago
'The Masked Singer' season 14 began with eighteen contestants, out of which only seven remain in the competition now.
2 days ago
Windey was seen in Season 26 of 'The Bachelor' and returned to lead Season 19 of 'The Bachelorette' with Rachel Recchia
2 days ago
Unlike most Bachelorettes, Paul was not a part of Bachelor Nation and has only starred in Hulu's reality series, 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives'
2 days ago
Two former contestants return to ‘American Idol’, lighting up the stage again as they showcase how far they’ve come
2 days ago