Ricky from Skid Row’s “18 and Life” is Now Up for Parole

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Skid Row's self titled debut.  Which means that Ricky, the iconic character from the song "18 and Life", would now be up for parole.  What would have happened to Ricky?

For starters, we know he was a "young man who had a heart of gold".  Which leads us to believe that he would have been a model prisoner.  We also know that he "lived 9 to 5 and worked his fingers to the bone".  Which means he would have probably learned a trade while behind bars.

Considering that alcohol was a contributing factor to his crime, it stands to reason that Ricky would be granted parole if he expressed remorse for his actions and demonstrated an ability to lead a normal life outside of prison.  It's also safe to assume that Ricky would have received counseling and treatment for alcoholism while incarcerated.

Still, the odds would be stacked against Ricky.  According to recent statistics, nearly 2/3 of all parolees eventually return to prison.  Could Ricky have bucked the odds?  Provided he didn't return to the "edge of town", he would have had a chance.