Shivangi Sinha
Life behind bars is often harsh and defined by strict routines and the emotional weight of separation from loved ones. For many incarcerated individuals, the absence of family is one of the most difficult burdens to endure. Netflix’s ‘Unlocked: A Jail Experiment’ captures these realities while also documenting an alternative path, one that emphasizes rehabilitation within a more autonomous, less tightly controlled environment. Among the stories presented, Elwood Robert Murphy Jr., known as Woody, was the most touching, largely because of the raw humanity in his longing to reconnect with his family and reclaim a sense of belonging beyond the jail walls.
Elwood Robert Murphy Jr. AKA Woody Got a Special Visit From His Daughter
Elwood Robert Murphy Jr., known as Woody, shared that his life had once been stable and fulfilling. He was married, had three children, and believed he was on solid ground until substance dependence gradually began to unravel everything he had built. His addiction brought repeated encounters with law enforcement, leading to estrangement from his family, an eventual divorce, and the loss of regular contact with his children. By the time he appeared on the season, Woody was facing serious consequences. He had been incarcerated for organizing a robbery in August 2024 and for stealing a means of transportation in November 2024, crimes that resulted in sentences of four and a half years and nine years, respectively.
Woody had experienced different correctional systems before and understood the intent behind the experimental program introduced at the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility. Still, participating in it was not easy. According to the series, when he became caught in the middle of a confrontation involving Jacob Wayne Nusser and another faction, he was placed in solitary confinement. After returning to the unit, Woody made a conscious decision to fully commit to the opportunity being offered. One of the most meaningful changes for him was access to the free phone system, which allowed him to reconnect with his daughter, Keeley. He later received a visit from both Keeley and his ex-wife, Cambra. From then on, Woody encouraged others to take responsibility, stay committed to the program, and use it for genuine self-improvement rather than short-term comfort.
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Elwood Robert Murphy Jr. AKA Woody is Behind Bars in Arizona Today
Woody’s record shows a long and uneven history with the criminal justice system. His first arrest dates back to 2014, when he was charged with violence-related offenses connected to drug paraphernalia. That case resulted in a seven-month prison sentence. In 2016, he was convicted again, this time on one count of attempted unlawful use of a means of transportation, for which he received a ten-month sentence. Woody returned to prison in 2019 after being convicted on two counts of organized retail theft, receiving two and a half years for each count. His most recent sentencing occurred in 2024, further extending his incarceration.
He is currently being held at the Lewis Corrections Department in Buckeye, Arizona, where he is serving out the remainder of his sentence. His parole eligibility date has been set for July 30, 2032. While incarcerated, Woody appears to be keeping a low profile and focusing on constructive use of his time. In August 2025, he completed Construction–Electric Basic training. He has also participated in Alcoholics Anonymous programming, with documented attendance in November 2025 and again in January 2026. These assignments indicate a willingness to engage in self-improvement efforts as he continues to serve his sentence and prepare for eventual reintegration.
