Clarence Carnes

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Clarence Carnes

Clarence Carnes (January 14, 1927 – October 3, 1988), also known as "The Choctaw Kid", was a notable American criminal and the youngest inmate ever to be incarcerated at Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. His life and criminal career have been the subject of various books and documentaries, shedding light on the harsh realities of prison life, especially in one of the most infamous prisons in the United States.

Early Life

Born in Oklahoma, Carnes came from a troubled background that led him to a life of crime at an early age. His early offenses were relatively minor, but they set the stage for his later criminal activities.

Crime and Incarceration

At the age of 16, Carnes was convicted of murder after killing a store clerk during a robbery gone wrong. Given his age and the severity of his crime, he was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Due to his young age and the nature of his crime, he was sent to Alcatraz, making him the youngest prisoner ever to be held at the notorious facility.

Life in Alcatraz

While at Alcatraz, Carnes became involved in several notable incidents, including the 1946 "Battle of Alcatraz", a failed escape attempt that resulted in the deaths of two guards and three inmates. Carnes, however, did not participate in the killing of the guards and was later credited with sparing the lives of hostages during the event. His actions during the escape attempt led to a reduction in his sentence.

Later Years and Death

After Alcatraz closed in 1963, Carnes was transferred to other prisons. He continued to serve time until his eventual release in the 1970s. After his release, Carnes lived a relatively quiet life until his death in 1988.

Legacy

Clarence Carnes' story is a poignant example of the complexities of the American penal system and the capacity for change within individuals. His life has been explored in various media, highlighting the themes of redemption and the impact of incarceration on young offenders.