In the Place of Justice by Wilbert Rideau

Wilbert Rideau’s memoir, In the Place of Justice, recounts his journey from a death row inmate to a celebrated journalist within the Louisiana penal system. The narrative begins with a failed bank robbery in 1961 that led to decades of incarceration, much of which was spent in solitary confinement and at the notorious Angola prison. Through extensive self-education and the mentorship of reform-minded officials, Rideau became the editor of The Angolite, transforming it into a courageous, award-winning magazine that exposed systemic corruption and racism. The text highlights his legal battles for clemency, which were often thwarted by political opposition and a vengeful justice system. Supported by a dedicated legal team and his partner, Linda, Rideau eventually secured a new trial in 2005. A jury subsequently convicted him of manslaughter, allowing him to be released for time already served after more than forty years behind bars.