This Country Legend Lived A Dark And Destructive Life Before Fame, What He Did While Prison Is INSANE Merle Haggard began his criminal ways when he was 9-years-old. This was the year his father passed away. Merle would go around breaking windows, lights, and mailboxes. Then, when he was 14, he ran away to Texas. He lived in Bakersfield, so he had to travel a long distance. When Merle came home he was arrested for shoplifting. He escaped Juvenile detention multiple times. He was finally caught on his last attempt. Then he was sentenced to 15 years in San Quentin Prison. Merle said this, My reputation of escape, they wouldnt let me out of the cell after 4 oclock in the afternoon. For the first 18 months, maybe a little more more, I wasnt able to participate in any of the functions that were available. Merle was put in solitary confinement for a week. There he had a few conversations with a death row inmate. After those talks Merle finally decided to stay on the straight and narrow. He kept a job at the prison, and then joined the country band. He was inspired by Johnny Cashs performance. Merle was even able to play at the Warden Show for good behavior. Did you know this about Merle? 