So you've decided to set me free

I've paid my debt to society

Fresh out of jail trying to make a new start

On the street with a bitter heart

But my past keeps on haunting me

There ain't no chance for a man with my history



Once a thief

Always a suspect

Once a liar

Never be believed

Will they ever forget that

I was once a thief?



I was out in the cold

I was soaked to the skin

I needed a home

And your heart took me in

Then I heard all the lies

and I lost my belief

You threw away my hope

and you called me a thief



So you've decided to set me free

I'm out of jail but you've still got the key

There was a time when I thought you respected me

But somehow you always suspected me



Once a thief

Always a suspect

Once a liar

Never be believed

Will they ever forget that

I was once a thief?



Instead of offering me charity,

You should've tried to put some faith in me

Instead of making me a better man,

You kept reminding me of what I am



Instead of offering me charity,

You should've tried to put some faith in me

How many years must a criminal pay?

Until he's old and his hair turns to gray

You smile at me

But I know underneath

You're thinking

Once a thief always a suspect.



Once a thief

Always a suspect

Once a liar

Never be believed

Will they ever forget that

I was once a thief?