Andy is accused of the murders and sent to Shawshank State Penitentiary. Although he insists that he is innocent, the evidence against him leads to a life sentence.
When Andy arrives at Shawshank, he quickly realizes that prison is a harsh and dangerous place. The prisoners are controlled by guards, and violence is always close.
Andy, however, does not behave like most new prisoners. He is quiet, observant, and rarely loses his temper.