The most iconic and terrifying element of Sona’s internal justice system was the "Chicken Foot."
The prison's external security is minimal; guards armed with machine guns patrol outside the walls and man watchtowers, shooting anyone who attempts to flee across the designated "No Man's Land". However, once inside the main building, there are no rules, no order, and no authority—except for what the prisoners create for themselves. This lawlessness, where might makes right and disputes are often settled by death, establishes a unique and brutal setting that is, in fact, inspired by the real-life horrors of Brazil's infamous Carandiru Prison.
Because of this brutal gladiatorial system, the strongest, most ruthless, and politically cunning inmates rise to the top of the prison food chain. The Rulers of Sona: Who Sits at the Top?
Breaking out of Sona required exploiting the physical limitations of the military’s external surveillance rather than fooling internal guards.
As Lechero’s control weakens due to the water crisis and the looming threat of the Scofield escape plan, Sammy sees an opportunity. He successfully stages a coup, taking over Lechero's quarters and declaring himself the new top dog of Sona. However, Sammy’s reign is short-lived. Blinded by a desire to control Michael Scofield and uncover the escape plot, he forces Michael to build a tunnel. Sammy is eventually killed in a standoff, allowing a brief return to power for Lechero before the ultimate climax.
Lechero maintained order through a strict set of "men's rules." If two inmates had a dispute, it wasn't settled by guards—it was settled "in the ring" in a duel to the death.