Last night’s episode of Xarabank was full of incredible first-hand accounts of what life is like in Corradino Correctional Facility, with a number of ex-prisoners and current prisoners opening up about their lives behind bars.

One of the most compelling stories was that of Jean Paul Is-Sufu Azzopardi, who used to run the streets and live on bus stops as a young child, before being incarcerated at the age of 17.

Appearing on Xarabank in a smart blue suit, Jean Paul spoke eloquently about his time in prison; however, his appearance caused quite a stir, with many commenting on his heavily tattooed face.

He publicly responded in a comment, saying he was no different than any other person

“I want to tell everyone that I might look very different from other people because I have a lot of tattoos but I want to make it clear that I was not imprisoned because I stole from people thank God. I was imprisoned because of a foolish mind. Today, I have a girlfriend and a daughter who I live for, Everybody makes mistakes in life, but it doesn’t mean just because I have tattoos I am not a person like everyone else. Thank you for maybe understanding me.”

Pictured above: Jean Paul appeared on Xarabank along with other prisoners and ex-prisoners

A lot of people felt the same way as Jean Paul did, saying you can’t always judge on first appearances

Since being released from prison, Jean Paul has dedicated himself to his partner and their daughter, doing his utmost to give them the best life he can.

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Johnathan Cilia

Johnathan is an award-winning Maltese journalist interested in social justice, politics, minority issues, music and food. Follow him at @supreofficialmt on Instagram, and send him news, food and music stories at [email protected]