Life Inside: A Journey of Love, Loss, and Redemption Through Puppies Behind Bars

Incarcerated Artist Finds Solace and Purpose in Training Service Dogs

Adam Roberts, an artist serving time in New York for arson and murder, found solace and purpose in training service dogs through the Puppies Behind Bars program. Roberts shared his journey of bonding with the dogs, from his first pup Lee to his current companion Annie.

Roberts described the joy and fulfillment he experienced while training the dogs, from celebrating their accomplishments to fretting over problematic behaviors. Each dog taught him valuable lessons, with Lee teaching him to stay present and Lexi encouraging him to smile and carry on.

Despite the inevitable parting that comes with each dog’s graduation from the program, Roberts expressed gratitude for the unconditional love and companionship he received from each furry friend. As he looks towards his upcoming parole hearing after 25 years in prison, Roberts hopes to leave prison around the same time as Annie, his current companion.

Through the ups and downs of his journey, Roberts has found that caring for others is his special purpose, and he is determined to move forward, richer for the love and lessons learned from each dog he has trained.

For more engaging stories like this, subscribe to “Life Inside” to gain perspectives from those who work and live in the criminal justice system.