Desktop tech sent to prison for an education on strange places to put tattoos
The Register
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new IT professional at a US prison encountered an unusual initiation into workplace culture when sent into the facility by a colleague as part of a hazing ritual. Assigned to troubleshoot a computer issue in the prison, Carl was directed by Mike, his coworker, through security checkpoints and into areas where prisoners were held. Upon entering a dimly lit hallway, Carl was startled by prisoners making obscene remarks and propositions. Mike later revealed that this was a standard hazing routine for new employees, meant to instill fear and discomfort. The bizarre experience left Carl shocked, particularly by the unique tattoos he saw on the prisoners, which he had never encountered before.
Carl’s story began when he took a job in IT support at a police department operating a prison in the early 1990s. His first assignment involved fixing a computer issue, but Mike, his coworker, led him into the holding cells instead of directly addressing the problem. The incident was part of an initiation process for new hires, intended to test their mettle and integrate them into the team through humor and intimidation. Carl found himself in a surreal situation as prisoners surrounded him, creating an awkward and tense environment that he had never faced before.
This experience highlights the stark contrast between typical tech work environments and law enforcement settings, where hazing rituals can be more extreme. While IT professionals often operate in collaborative and innovative spaces, those working in correctional facilities must navigate a culture shaped by security protocols and sometimes harsher norms. Carl’s story underscores the importance of understanding workplace dynamics in roles that involve high-stakes or unconventional environments, where humor and pranks can quickly turn serious.
For tech professionals, this story serves as a reminder of the diverse ways workplace cultures can differ across industries. It also raises questions about how organizations handle new employee integration and the risks of using
Verticals
tech
Originally published on The Register on 2/20/2026