Exclusive Insights: Alcatraz’s Last Living Inmate Speaks Out on Trump’s Controversial Plan to Reopen the Infamous Prison

When Charlie Hopkins remembers his time at Alcatraz, he often thinks about the eerie silence. "The only sound was ships passing by," he recalls. "Each whistle reminded me of Hank Williams’ song, ‘I’m so lonesome I could cry.’"

In 1955, Hopkins arrived at Alcatraz, having received a 17-year sentence for kidnapping and robbery. He describes the prison as both clean and bare, lacking distractions like radios or books. "There was really nothing to do," he says. His daily routines included cleaning the prison, keeping busy as he swept and polished the floors.

Hopkins, now 93 and living in Florida, believes he’s likely the last living former inmate of Alcatraz, although this hasn’t been independently confirmed. His experience at the infamous prison included interactions with notorious criminals and an unsuccessful escape attempt. “We tried to steal hacksaw blades to cut through the bars,” he explains. Sadly, the plan was thwarted when guards found the tools.

Alcatraz, located on a rocky island 1.25 miles from San Francisco, started as a military prison before becoming a federal prison in the 1930s. It housed some of the most dangerous criminals, including Al Capone and the "Birdman of Alcatraz," Robert Stroud. The prison was notorious for its security, with 14 escape attempts by a total of 36 inmates during its operation.

Hopkins’ longest stint in solitary confinement lasted six months, stemming from his escape plan. "By the time I left in 1958, the security was so tight you couldn’t breathe," he says.

In 1963, the prison closed. The government decided it would be cheaper to invest in new facilities than maintain Alcatraz. Today, it serves as a museum that generates about $60 million in revenue annually.

Recently, former President Donald Trump expressed interest in reopening Alcatraz to house violent criminals. However, experts doubt this is feasible. Restoring the infrastructure would likely cost billions. Hopkins echoes this sentiment. "Back then, the sewage went right into the ocean. They’d need a new system."

Reflecting on his past, Hopkins has written a memoir that dives deep into his troubled behavior. "Looking back, I see I had problems," he admits. Since his release, he has built a stable life, returning to Florida where he enjoys time with his daughter and grandson.

Hopkins sees Alcatraz as more than just a prison; it represents the consequences of choices and the possibility of redemption. It’s a reminder of both his past struggles and his journey toward healing. Today, many people visit Alcatraz, fascinated by its history and the lessons it imparts about crime and punishment.

For a look into the history of Alcatraz and its notable inmates, check the National Park Service’s resources here.

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