Black Deaths In Custody

despite the cost a new gaol has been built

it seems the incarceration rates are trebling

I only came here in the role

of a Deaths In Custody inspector

all the cells are stark and spotless

blank screens watch from the corner

the offices have the highest technology

the faces of the staff still look the same

when I walk down this wing and peer

into this filthy room the door closes behind me

the feeling in my heart is changing

from a proud strength of duty to fear

all the stories I have ever heard

stand silent in the space beside me — 

a coil of rope is being pushed

under the door of this cell