Free After Serving 25

Lourele Roberts, a man born and raised in the small town of Columbia, Louisiana, had a tumultuous journey through life that involved brushes with the law from a young age. Growing up in a loving Christian home and actively participating in team sports, Lourele had material comforts but lacked proper guidance and discipline. This absence of direction led him down a troubling path, resulting in shoplifting incidents as a young child. As he entered his teenage years, his involvement in criminal activities escalated, eventually culminating in an armed robbery of a convenience store in Monroe, Louisiana, for which he was incarcerated in August 1996.

Despite being behind bars for only three months, Lourele managed to escape, becoming a fugitive for a year before getting caught in January 1999. He served a consecutive 25-year sentence for his crimes. However, in a turn of fate, on February 7, 2022, at the age of 46, Lourele was granted parole, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life.

Reflecting on his past, Lourele spoke candidly about his early experiences and the factors that contributed to his troubled behavior. He mentioned playing sports until the eleventh grade and even shared his brief encounter with the police at the age of nine or ten when he was caught shoplifting from a grocery store. Lourele attributed his criminal activities to a lack of guidance and discipline, as he was raised by his maternal grandparents, who provided for his basic needs but failed to instill the necessary guidance to steer him away from trouble.

As Lourele continued his conversation, he shed light on his years spent in and out of jail, stating that the criminal lifestyle was all he knew, and he found comfort in it. His lack of direction and exposure to criminal influences during his early life made crime an easy way out for him. Recounting his escapades, he mentioned running from authorities and being caught, eventually serving 25 years for armed robbery. Throughout his time in prison, he gradually came to realize that crime would not lead to a fulfilling life, and he began to learn about more positive ways to live.

Upon being released, Lourele confidently expressed that he now knows better and has learned from his past mistakes. He believes he has the tools to lead a more meaningful and productive life. He credits his growth to finding faith in God and developing a strong relationship with Him. Lourele emphasized the importance of trying God for oneself, as it was through this connection that he found direction and understanding in life.

In the discussion, Lourele also addressed the challenges of reintegration into society. However, he asserted that finding employment was not a major obstacle for him, as he had been prepared for the outside world through various job search programs available during his incarceration. He noted that some individuals struggle to find work due to lack of effort or pickiness, rather than a shortage of job opportunities.

Despite facing attempts to keep him imprisoned, Lourele emerged a free man, crediting God’s plan for guiding him to a brighter future. He offered valuable advice to young people at risk of following a similar path, encouraging them to channel their energy into positive endeavors and seek a path that leads to a better life.

In conclusion, Lourele Roberts’ life journey serves as a testament to the power of transformation and redemption. From a troubled past, he has grown into a man with a strong sense of purpose and faith. His story underscores the importance of guidance and support for young individuals, as well as the potential for positive change even after making grave mistakes. Lourele’s transformation is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the capacity for growth and renewal.