“Juarez”. The CO called out for a second time. “It’s time for court Juarez, come on or you’re staying the night”

Juarez didn’t move, he was sleeping on the steel benches next to the toilet. His clothes covered with a dark grease, made possible only from months of sleeping on the street and lack of hygiene.

“Juarez, come on, let’s go – whose Juarez. Time for court!” The CO shouted out again, before finally giving up and sending the 7 other men upstairs to the holding cell for arraignment.

Minutes later, Juarez wakes. He moves towards the bars, stumbles pass for steps. “CO, can I get another sandwich? CO, I’m hungry, lemme get a sandwich”

The same CO who had called for Juarez earlier approached the bars. “What’s your name?”

“Juarez”

“I called you for court, why didn’t you answer?”

“Judge Benson is sitting tonight, he don’t let nobody go, I’ll take my chances in the morning.”

“I respect that Juarez, you’ve got balls. I’ll get you that sandwich.” the CO said, showing at least some humanity in the jail.