SAD ELEGY FOR OAKLAND

(Art found on net. Work by Matt Mahurin)
I wrote this at work in memory of the four cops who were killed by a parole. He had just raped a little girl when he was stopped by a motorcycle officer. He opened fire instantly. During the course of the arrest, three others died. As angry as I have gotten at times over speeding tickets, I worked with the police during one summer and did research for them, and in so doing, I met some very decent human beings. At the time, I posted it on the website that was taking comments about the incident from my work computer. I'm sticking this on here at a later date, but reflective of the time it happened.
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Their shift began like any other; an ordinary day
No warnings were given of danger on its way.
The clock that rang, the coffee mug, the "see you" at the door.
The routine of life in uniform, which ended for these four.
The first two fell in a road-side stop.
A constant risk for the traffic cop.
No chance had they against this demon unleashed.
An overwhelmed system means mistakes in release.
Hate reared, prison punk, hollow point heavy.
To avoid his just sentence; to kill he was ready.
What thoughts did they have then?
When darkness befell them.
Yet the horror continued, as two more would die.
And leave in their passing a search for just why.
The bravest amongst us must give up their lives.
And leave in despair a child or their wives.
So as we begin this day all anew,
Let's give pause a moment for lost brothers in blue.