Former Prisoner Yannick Deslandes Builds Mobile Jail Cell

Yannick Deslandes, who spent 22 years in prison for drug trafficking, has established a project to deter young people from crime by recreating a prison cell in a mobile trailer located in Villeurbanne, near Lyon. This eight-square-metre replica is situated at the foot of the Tonkin housing estate and aims to provide visitors with a realistic glimpse into the harsh conditions of prison life.

Deslandes, through his association Mur’Mures, utilizes his personal experiences to educate youth about the severe consequences of criminal activities. The replica includes features such as bunk beds and a toilet without a door, emphasizing the lack of privacy and the restricted living conditions faced by inmates.

The initiative seeks to challenge the misconception that prison is a comfortable environment, often referred to as a “Club Med” resort, by presenting a more accurate portrayal of life in detention. By placing the replica in a residential area, Deslandes hopes to foster discussions about crime, responsibility, and the choices leading to imprisonment.