WATCHING A YOUNG OFFENDER WHILE WAITING FOR MY VERDICT
Brian Burch
A 13 year old
repeat offender,
a baby really,
stands in the custody of the state.
A violent history
both in his life and his actions
is shared with the courtroom.
Compassion fills the space
---his behaviour
mirrors that of many of us at his age
(harsher edged perhaps,
but not beyond the limitations
of normal tolerance).
He’s not perfect.
He’s not an angel.
He’s not really good (or bad).
But 79 days in custody
before a hearing...
79 days...
A 13 year old
repeat offender,
a baby really,
stands in the custody of the state.
