I wonder how many saints or potential saints are among them. I realize it is difficult to envision saints among America's most hardened and brutal criminals. But the whole point of St. Patrick's Confession is that God leaves no one behind, that God's grace is real and transforming. And if St. Patrick truly committed murder, his Confession is a testimony to the truth that even a murderer can one day achieve holiness. So I do not exclude the possibility that there are saints among us living in prison.
Many prisoners live faith-filled and prayerful lives.
I know this because I know several death row prisoners. In fact, one man that I know may be executed by the time you read this. He is a sincere and dutiful Catholic. I have seen him receive Communion on death row. He has spoken honestly and openly about his guilt and is truly remorseful.