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Locked Up Abroad: Indonesia
Chris Parnell spent 11 years in a prison nightmare when he was locked up in Indonesia after being convicted of smuggling hashish in 1985. Determined to get out and prove his innocence, he made four more daring escape attempts, but was recaptured every time.
Did you see the show or read the online interview with Chris? What do you think about his story?
63 Replies
May 13, 2009 10:34 PM
Chris, I was a surfer from Texas that was lock up in Mexico without cause so I can relate. My biggest fear was being American. What was your biggest fear?
July 2, 2009 11:05 PM
Hi there, Yes I can really relate how you felt being an Amerian in a Mexican Jail You became the political whipping post (Your President sucks so you get life or your Prime Minister is a Prick so you get a death sentence. Yeah I know exactly what its like. Actually there is an American in Indonesia now into the 12 th year of life sentence for possession of 4 kg of weed. Australians get 20 years for that now as int he case of an Australian female prisoner. So Yeah being an American in certain parts of the world is definately a red flag for the bull. Cheers Mate Christopher V V Parnell
May 13, 2009 10:43 PM
Were you surprise when they got you back to prison in the 2nd time?
July 2, 2009 11:08 PM
Hi there, 1st or 2nd or 3rd or 4th time is a pain in the butt to say the least. But which particular time are you referring to? Cheers Chris
May 13, 2009 10:53 PM
Have you forgiven your wife, and Doggie for what they did to you after all this time? Also do you feel closer to God at all?
July 2, 2009 11:12 PM
Hi there, Nothing Sweet is ever pulled out of a box of regrets. I havent seen Doggie Since the Asylum or my Ex Wife since the death of our Daughter. I still hold God in my Heart Cheers and God Bless
October 8, 2009 2:58 PM
Hi Chris, I'm from Brazil and I want to tell that God will be bless you because of all "bad moments" that you had to pass...
My question (and I'm sorry to insist..) Why you wife leftf you?
Didn't she believe in your side "version"?
And what hapened with your daughter did she died because of your situation?
I'm so sad about this and I want to share my feelings with you.
Cheers Gatti
May 13, 2009 11:13 PM
Chris what ever happen to the other inmate who didn't go over the wall? Is he still there or what?
May 13, 2009 11:14 PM
You have suffered more than anyone I know. i can't figure out Why. God Bless you and your family. I don't want to ask you a question, I am profoundly sad and happy for you. If I could i'd build you a statue and call it Freedom - Jami
July 2, 2009 11:15 PM
Hi Jami Thank You for your Kind thoughts and its an inspiration to hear. All the best to you and yours Cheers Chris
May 13, 2009 11:25 PM
chris, why 11 years? I can imagine that after some time you become one of them. Did you ever feel" I did not do enough"?
Do feel anger still? Do you have a need for revenge? I have been in a similar situation and my heart healed but with gnarled and sensitive scars. This kind of negative energy never goes away away but must be realigned and reassigned to something safe. "homo homini lupus" "man is a wolf to man". You are a man who out lived the wolves. My hat is off to you my friend.
May 13, 2009 11:25 PM
Were you able to keep up with world events, or did you not know anything about the collapse of the Soviet Union, reunifictaion of Germany, the changes in South Africa, the Tiananmen Square protests, who won the FIFA World Cup, etc.?
May 13, 2009 11:25 PM
I've seen every episode of the show since it first came out last year, and many of the stories are indeed horrific. That being said, your ordeal(Chris) blows them all away. The fact that right off the top, the mix-up w/ the fingerprint cards being discovered and even acknowledged by the police as well as the diplomat guy--and STILL it didn't help you a bit, is unbelievable! That doesn't say much for your embassy contacts. Did you consider(when Doggie showed back up) alerting the police, etc he was back in the country so possibly they could grab him and let you out....thereby correcting their error of the cards? Regardless, you must be one mentally-tough guy. I wish you Godspeed.
May 13, 2009 11:29 PM
Chris, you are an absolute inspiration. Your story is not only terrifying, but truly uplifting at the same time. So many times we get caught up in the "little things" and I want to thank you for punctuating how prescious freedom is and that each day is a gift to cherish.
I believe you are the Energizer Bunny incarnate!!
-Peace
May 13, 2009 11:31 PM
Do you know where your daughter and ex wife are living?Do you want to see your daughter and tell her what had happen to you?
July 2, 2009 11:21 PM
Hi there Misstee, I did of course catch up with my daughter when I arrived back in Australia. Sadly my beautiful girl died from heart failure years ago
May 13, 2009 11:42 PM
I saw your story and thought it was really amazing. Do you realize how the Lord worked in your life to save you? This was not an accident, but divine intervention!! If this ordeal didn't tell you that, nothing will!!
May 13, 2009 11:54 PM
Chris Parnell is my hero. I absolutely, positively love that guy. I thought NOTHING could top the very first episode where those two kids from England got locked up in Venezuela, but Chris' story blows them... almost away. This episode is the one that is going to make me tell all of my friends and coworkers about the show. I've had nightmares that I thought were horrible... Chris could stroll through those like Mr. Rogers thru a park on a cool, sunny day, while whistling a jolly tune and tossing a ball up and down in his hand... and strangling death with the other.
May 18, 2009 12:02 PM
love the mr. rogers comment hahahhaaha
May 14, 2009 12:24 AM
Chris is the all time ironman. I am not sure a Navy Seal could have mentally survived the ordeal. Why haven't they made a movie of your story?
May 14, 2009 1:47 AM
what is the name of the books you have published? are any of them your story about this?
May 14, 2009 2:36 AM
That is the most intense locked up abroad I have ever seen... so surreal. My heart goes out to you Chris. I hope that you can find full trust in people again, were not all bad! You definitely have a guardian angel. I'm truly inspired by your story, I hope you find faith in the one who kept you alive!
May 14, 2009 3:31 AM
You were locked up in Indonesia but why were they speaking Tagalog and at the end where they show credits its in the Philippines
July 2, 2009 11:28 PM
Hi there, How very observant of you... You are absolutely right... the whole episode was filmed in the Phillipines because the Indonesians would have possible have thrown us in Jail or out of the country... Cheers Chris
May 14, 2009 10:01 AM
what an incredible story. i thought i had problems until i saw what you went through. my life is trivial in comparison. best of luck to you.
May 14, 2009 10:07 AM
THE INJUSTICE TO YOU IS RIVALLED ONLY BY THE HOLOCAUST
But at least you are still alive. One tries to analyze the start of the situation and how you might have avoided it. It's hard to see it. Anyone of us might also have traveled with Doggie. We might not have seen the danger ahead of time. He was not really a business associate. I'm surprised he came back to try to help you escape. That was also a dangerous thing for him to do. When running on the roof tops, it might have been better to stay closer to the sides of the roof..which might have carried your weight...
There is no god, as you know from your experience. But your resilience is beyond belief and a model to us all. Frank Sinatra said: "The best revenge is to live well."
I hope you can model that sentiment every day of your new life. Love your (new) family, eat well, get exercise, write and publish more, help others in the web of prison...in short continue to live WELL.
My hat's off to you. I want you to love every day. If it means forgiving those who did this to you, perhaps that's what you need to do. You may have to start with your "old" family. It is possible that your ex-wife simply didn't have the emotional strength to deal with this...a weakness, yes....but perhaps understandable..or at least forgiveable....
sanjosemike
May 14, 2009 10:36 AM
I didn't quite understand where the hashish filled statues came from. How did doggie get them there?
May 14, 2009 11:37 AM
I love this show, one of my favs.
So I watched this show last night, what a stunning episode easily the best one so far.
I hiope some producer somewhere sees this and makes it into a movie it would surely top 'midnight express'
May 14, 2009 1:24 PM
I too thought of the film Midnight Express, but your story would blows that one away. I mean, you literally did NOTHING and nearly paid for it with your life! One minute you're just a regular person on holiday with the family, next minute: 11 YEARS IN JAIL! Corrupt, Filthy Indonesian jail too boot! Not some "plush" jail in a Western nation.
Did the Indo. government give you any money, at least, for all your pain and suffering? I wish you all the best. Hang in there, you're an inspiration for all freedom/justice loving people everywhere.
May 14, 2009 8:00 PM
A very intense story. I hope you will one day be able to be truely at peace. My question to you is when you were caught on the beach, were they trying not to shoot you or were they all just bad shots?
May 14, 2009 10:08 PM
I cried when I saw your story, especially your recovery pictures from the attack in prison. I wish you all the best in life and happiness and peace. I am so happy you are at home now and have a partner and son for you to love and to love you.
May 14, 2009 11:00 PM
Locked up abroad is my favorite show and don't miss an episode. By far this has been the most amazing one yet. It is incredible what you went through and how you survived. I am sorry you went through such a difficult time.
What are you feelings on Schapelle Corby who has been in a Bali prison since 2005. Do you think she may have a chance in getting out before the 20 years. Seems like she is loosing hope.
Good luck to you , Tony (Miami FL)
May 14, 2009 11:54 PM
Escape Escape Escape...those three words have hauntingly reverberated throughout my mind since viewing last nights episode of "Locked Up Abroad"! The injustices brought upon Chris Parnell are utterly horrifying. My hats off to you, Mr. Parnell, for persevering under such dire circumstances; most would have whittled away and succumbed to death. You are a courageous hero. Your story is stranger than fiction—a modern-day Dickens novel. I only hope that you write an autobiography and sell the rights to the film industry. (I can totally see Russell Crow depicting you in a film!)
It’s thrilling to know that you are enjoying your freedom and remarried with a son! I pray for your continued good health. (I can’t believe that you were struck with liver cancer 13 years ago after all that!) Undoubtedly, you were forced to suffer through your imprisonment and your many near-death experiences for a reason. I do not know if you are a religious man, but I firmly believe that a divine entity has wonderful plans for you. Obviously, many of these wonderful plans have already come to fruition: your son, your wife, your assistance with the amnesty of fellow inmates, and, of course, your FREEDOM! I look forward to reading your three novels and many more in the future.
Of course I will continue to pray for the injustices of the many other Chris Parnell’s who do not have the opportunity to tell their story. (My thoughts and prayers are with the poor Englishman (from the first episode of this season) who is still stuck in Peru.)
Cheers to Chris Parnell! You deserve all glory and praise!!!!
May 15, 2009 12:00 AM
I found your story to be horrifying and uplifting. I am pleased you have been working to help others who suffered as you did and hope it helps you find some peace. My Q is, What about the people who're responsible for this in justice. The chief of police, the judge, the system. I know as you do this is still going on. There must be evidence, that can prove these people are responsible for hundreds of fleecing of tourists and a untold number of lives have been destroyed by these criminal officials. I would want Vengeance. i am aware the Indonesia is a sovereign state and that internationally there my be a limited amount of things one can do. Instead of looking at from a individual perspective. (Case by Case) I would like to see the glaring spot light of the international media come to bear on the key individuals responsible. This will in time bring about change I believe. Furthermore there is a chance those officials responsible would receive a dose of there own medicine. I live in Hollywood-land, Ca. If there is anything I can do to help I would gladly devote some of my time. Either way You have my respect. JIMMY
(As Nat Geo knows these stories make for great T.V, So would my idea, But with a benevolent agenda).
Jimmy Los Angeles. Ca
July 3, 2009 12:23 AM
Hi Jimmy I have a good American friend John who is still languishing behind bars in Indonesian Prison. John is into his 12th year of a life sentence on the Punishment Island Prison of Nusa Kumbungan. He was charged with the possession of 4 kg of Pot and sadly to say just like the Australian Government the American Government has done nothing and is doing nothing to help him. He is nearly 60 years old now and that very very old for a foreigner to survive in an Asian Prison. I went to visit him for the Christmas of 2007 and the only thing he asked of me was to keep a supply of tucker going his way. Which I do my best at. When you dont have a family in the country the language is not your native tongue, the religion is not yours, the customs are something that you have to battle to get your head around and your the only white man then life can be very very difficult. You really do feel like an alien. As for your question I love the idea of Justice being dealt to the corrupt... They hunt War Criminals dont they! but as you all know Justice is a very expensive commodity and without money you cant buy it... at least not in Asia. Thanks for your thoughts Regards and Best Wishes
May 15, 2009 1:35 AM
What an amazing story you have, Chris. It's a legacy for generations to never give up. You're truly an inspiring person. I ordered your book while I was still watching the show. I couldn't resist. Your narration was absolutely riveting. A lot of the stories they often feature are amazing, horrifying, and dumbfounding, but yours surpasses them all. I found it inspiring. I'm sure I'll find the book even more so. ;-)
May 17, 2009 7:42 PM
WOW that's all i can say I have seen many other locked up and WOW!!!........................... Is there a web site or way to contact other prisoners that are locked up that I can at least write to?? I would like to help in that way.
July 2, 2009 11:38 PM
Hi there, Yes there are several website that you can use to help and communicate with prisoners locked up abroad. Just go to my website . www.christophervvparnell.com and to my links page. Cheers Chris
May 17, 2009 9:56 PM
Unbelievable..........I sat on the edge of my seat throughout the episode of yours Chris, TWICE. I have too many questions to ask, but from the first minute until the very last, the events that unfolded never stopped. Truly HORRIFIC........Especially, when you were in the morgue. I am still mezmerized. I too have not missed an episode of Locked Up Abroad, Chris, you have them all beat, you precious man.
laura in florida
May 19, 2009 2:09 PM
Chris, I watched your story 3 times. I just found your will to live and survive in such an awful sitiuation amazing. I do have two questions for you.
First queston: Have you ever been reunited with your wife and daughter?
Second Question: After you got out of jail did you ever have the chance to confront the guy Doggie, who framed you ???
May 20, 2009 7:30 PM
Chris, I just saw your story on "locked-up abroad." Your story is incredible. Have you had any offers to turn this story into a motion picture? Have you written a book on your ordeal? Sorry to read about your health problems after prison. I hope you are getting good medical care and wish you good health.
May 21, 2009 6:00 AM
You do not choose your friends well.
July 3, 2009 12:42 AM
Your not kidding Your 100% right It funny how sometimes you dont pick friends they pick you... When I was in Prison I had a Hunchback Murderer who made me his friend and you know he turned out to be a good bloke even though at first I didnt like him. I guess with friends and family you cant go on a hunch... Cheers and all the best Chris
May 21, 2009 10:47 AM
Your story was inspiring and I consider you to be an amazing survivor. I have seen the episode about your ordeal twice and each time was on the edge of my seat. I was left with a question and that is. What happened to the Australian and the Italian prisoners who tried to climb over the wall with you?
May 21, 2009 12:17 PM
Good luck
May 21, 2009 8:18 PM
Not to make light of a situation but they should have saved the best for last this was the best one yet me and my wife was in aw when je talked about the way he literally came back to life we watch the show faithfully ever wensday
May 22, 2009 9:00 PM
I was blown away by your story. I have seen them all, but your is sad, yet inspiring. I sincerely wish you the best.
May 22, 2009 10:44 PM
I am sorry for what you had to go through....was your wife involved with the drug smuggling? Why did your relationship end? Where do they live now...can you see your daughter?
August 28, 2009 10:09 PM
Hi Chris,
I just watched your episode and...your story was INSANE. I really get into these stories but yours was definitely the most incredible. I think all of the escape attempts added to this, but my heart really went out to you because you had done absolutely nothing wrong. I'm so happy that you made it out and I hope that you're able to enjoy life more and more each day!
Unlike most of the stories I've seen, you were the most determined to escape. Did the fact that you were innocent drive you to this?
Also, given what happened to you and many others, would you ever recommend travelling to Southeast Asia and Indonesia? I'm sure that they're beautiful countries, but no one in their right mind would want to get screwed the way you did.
Thanks so much for sharing your story and even coming onto this board and communicating with fans!
August 29, 2009 12:45 PM
I hope you live a long and fulfilling life after what you went through Chris. It forces a person to look at their life and put it in perspective. I have so much to say and ask, so here are a couple of questions. How are you different, better, or worse for that experience? Did you ever hear or see the boxer or the don again?
August 31, 2009 2:51 PM
Chris I cant get you out of my mind after watching your story. I have been praying for you every day for your happiness. I am so sorry for what you went through. I see your face in my mind and I am so sad inside. Thank you for sharing such an inspirational story with the public. I can tell from your pictures during the show and while you were talking that your heart is so pure!! I really cant express the sadness that I felt when I watched your story. I love the series so much it is my favorite show. For some reason you just moved me and I felt such sorrow for you. Keep the smile on your face because you have allot to share with so many people. You remind me of one of my brothers he is such a pure spirit. I pray that you have a wonderful happy life you deserve it Love Carolyn
August 31, 2009 2:57 PM
Chris I forgot to add that my brothers name is also Chris it just hit me like a ton of bricks have a great day!!!
September 4, 2009 8:53 PM
Chris,
I watched your segment on the show for the first time today. I can't say much more than wow. I know you here that all the time.....but goodness. I'm so glad you made it out of there. I'm so sorry for the loss of your little girl, words could never express. But I'm so happy that you are still here with us, married again and in love, and a Daddy again. Good for you! You are an inspiration to us all. And you teach us that God is always with us, even when we think He isn't. Thank you.
Love,
Erica Odum
September 9, 2009 10:32 PM
Chris, I have read all the comments and will try not to ask a repeated question. I was amazed by the story and words cant express my feelings for what you had to deal with. The show left me really confused on what happened originally that got you and Doggie arrested. What is the back story? Was it all a big set up that Doggie planned and was your ex involved or what? I was so upset at the end of the show for had happened to you that I wanted revenge for you but didn't understand what had happened prior to your arrest. Is this something you can fill me in on?
September 11, 2009 1:11 PM
Hi Chris
I just caught the show. Heavy Heavy Heavy! The feelings of loss and desperation really came through with your description of the events as they happened. I sit here in my apt stressed out of my mind, anxious about my job, my relationship, finances etc and often seeing only the negative aspects of my life.
I have so much to be thankful for. My heart goes out to you man. If you ever make it to NYC I'd love to take you and your family out for dinner. An open invite from a South African in NYC.
September 23, 2009 11:02 PM
Sorry to hear what you gone thru. But for me it's hard to believe this story, there are too many holes.
- Statues had Doggie's finger prints, authorities still decided to prosecute you.
- Even after it was discovered they were Doggie's statutes, Doggie is still roaming around in Bali and trying to free you.
- Second attempt, dressing up as woman and leave from international airport. All I can say is Ridiculous!! No amount of makeup would make you like woman. You forgot to bring razor, then why not buy razor before changing clothes to female clothes and walking around with moustache??
- Cop selling statues on beach with gun, never heard of. And you ran into him. What are the chances?? How Military police showed up with rifles??
- Out of body experience after getting stabbed... It's just too much to swallow for me.
September 27, 2009 7:19 PM
I wanted to let you know that you are LOVED. I have sent some good to you.
Jack Leffe
September 27, 2009 11:27 PM
Chris,
Caught your episode at 1 in the morning and had to stay up till 2 to finish it, so awe inspiring. I have told your story to others, they appreciate it. My question, may not be a question, but the most remarkable aspect of your story, to me, was your ability to become somebody, whoever it was you needed to be you were. Like when you acted mad to be removed to the Asylum, or when you pulled out the Prison master with hook ups outside to set up an amazing escape, and more. How to put this in a question? Were you aware of your changes all the way through or did they just take over and that's just who you became?
October 5, 2009 1:34 AM
Dear Chris... a few years ago someone tried to incriminate me as well, i was this close to prison and hadn't done anything wrong of course... the feeling of just that was devastating... someone with higher vision told me that i was going to spend some time in jail but since i'm buddhist he gave me a practice to do... i did it and i am confident that helped me getting away of it. Don't intend to preach or anything but since you are helping inmates thought you may be interested on this... was the only thing that gave me peace and allow me to feel compassion for people once more (although still trying) even to those who incriminated me... there's a Dharma network who helps prisoners around the world... if you want to chek it out for those who are still in that situation. Much love to you!!!
October 12, 2009 12:30 PM
Hi, Mr. Chris,, I'm from Indonesia. I've just
watch National Geography 'Locked Up Abroad Bali' episode,, and it hurts me... It irritates me to watch what my country (and especially all those irresponsible persons who wear 'uniform') had done to you... I know it has
passed long time ago, but I've just known the fact and it shown on National Geography!!! Oh my God, its such a shame... I just want to send you my biggest sympathy and want to tell you how sorry I am for all that had happened...
Wish you all the best...
October 14, 2009 7:02 AM
i have a few things to ask.
Do you WISH to see doggie OR cheryl?
Do you what to see what type of person your daughter has become?
What was the first word that came into your mind when you fell into the homicidal maniac room?
Did doggie confess to the hashish?
Did he say sorry?
And what were you tinking when you saw the off duty prison guard?
October 18, 2009 1:34 AM
Hi Chris. I seen the tv program a few days ago and it's continually on my mind. The other people in the forum have just about said it all and I would like to say that you are an amazing person to have been able to pull through all that's happened to you.
I had a frightening experience with a senior Indonesian Police Officer in Jakarta about 15 years ago that could have landed me in big trouble because of his corruption. I won't go into details but this General or whatever his rank, was straight out of a Hollywood movie. A skinny little guy with a skintight uniform with ribbons, badges and epaulettes and a 45 automatic which he pulled out at one stage. I often think of this encounter and realize that I was very lucky not to have some trumped up charge against me, then maybe I also would be telling a story for "Locked up abroad".
I'm thankful to live in a non-corrupt country like New Zealand.
I respect you man. Take care and write that book. George
November 4, 2009 7:52 AM
Dear Chris
Your journey has moved me beyond words. The eyes are the mirror to the soul as they say and all throughout your narration of your ordeal, your inner beauty shone so brightly. To see you even after you were viciously attacked with a smile on your face astounded me. I have learned much through watching you. I hope you are smothered in love for the rest of your life and find peace in your heart. To have retained that kindness in your eyes and heart could not have been easy for you but I'm so glad you have them. All the best to your and your family.
Michelle White
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