Prison Tears and Newly Found Freedom

Prison Tears and Newly Found Freedom, originally uploaded by Subject is too Cute.

This is Jose. I noticed his "tear drop" tattoo and half closed eye. He was waiting for someone near an unmarked box and a a paper bag full of what seemed to be clothes.

At first I thought he was giving stuff away like advertising employees usually do in this area. I thought about that again - the "tear drop" tat ruled that out. He was also very watchful of his belongings. He had the ability to size me up and all of the many people walking around the loop at that time.

I introduced myself and mentioned his tattoo. I asked him if those were indeed prison tattoos. Yes they were - and he just got out today-he was waiting for his family to take him home. When I asked if I could take his photo he agreed but asked to borrow my phone first. He connected with his family and they were now on the right track.

He said he was in Vandalia ( I think? ). He said it was very far away. He did time for "drugs" and mentioned that he had a lot of tattoos. He started to show me one on his stomach but thought better of it because of the many people walking around.

I thanked him and as I was leaving he asked " You're not a cop are you?"
He has a moo card so I hope he enjoys the few photos I took - excuse the - not so perfect background -

This photo is number #68 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at 100 Strangers