Catfished Behind Bars – Could Cops Be Using the GettingOut App Pretending to be Underage?
Jason Evick is currently serving time at the Toledo Correctional Institution in Ohio for a violent crime. In Ohio and many other states, inmates have access to an app called GettingOut, which allows them to receive emails directly on their prison tablets. While this technology can significantly enhance communication with pen pals outside, it also carries potential risks.
When we think about prison inmates and catfishing, the typical assumption is that the inmate is the one deceiving others—fabricating details about their age, crime, appearance, release date, or even their name. However, in an eye-opening episode of our podcast, Jason Evick reveals a startling twist: it’s often free-world pen pals who are the ones lying to inmates. He recounts a chilling encounter where someone possibly from a child exploitation task force reached out to him, posing as a 16-year-old boy passionate about mixed martial arts. The boy reassured Evick, saying, “Don’t worry, my parents know I’m talking to you and they’re okay with it.” This is just one of many unsettling examples of catfishing that Evick experienced in prison.
This episode serves as a crucial warning for anyone with a loved one behind bars using the GTL GettingOut App or similar messaging services. The truth is, pen pals in the free world may not always be who they claim to be. If something feels off, trust your instincts. Stay informed and protect those you care about.
To learn more about Jason, including his current contact info, visit https://penpals.buzz/inmate/jason-evick/
Want to share your story on a future episode? Email podcast@penpals.buzz or leave us a voice message at https://penpalpodcast.com