Final answer:
The system failed to protect Charlie both before and after his incarceration by allowing false accusations and prolonged imprisonment without a trial.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before Charlie's incarceration, the system failed to protect him by allowing the hustlers to falsely accuse him and Darren, leading to their arrest and imprisonment. This shows a failure in the system's ability to properly investigate and discern the truth. After his incarceration, the system failed to protect Charlie by keeping him in prison for a prolonged period without a trial, simply because he couldn't afford bail or an attorney. This highlights the unequal treatment and lack of resources provided to individuals in the criminal justice system.