OFFICER IN NO-KNOCK RAID A "PRINCIPLED MAN"

Last year, I taught second grade in northeast Denver, not far from where
the no-knock raid (involving Ismael Mena) occurred. Officer Joseph Bini
was a volunteer tutor for two of my students who were usually
unmotivated and uncooperative. These troubled boys could not hide their
excitement on the days Officer Bini tutored them.

As a volunteer, Bini always showed up, often worked with the boys beyond
the scheduled hours, and spent time with them outside of tutoring. I
often heard Bini and these boys discussing integrity, honesty, and
accepting responsibility for one's own actions. I also spent much time
talking to Joe about these boys as well as his own son. I came away from
these conversations certain that Joe is a caring father and a thoughtful
person.

Before the police, the media, and public opinion vilify Joe Bini, I urge
that we wait to find out more about what truly happened regarding the
misidentification of the crack house, how the search warrant was
obtained, and what took place during the raid itself that resulted in
the tragic death of Mena.

I know nothing regarding the details of the raid beyond what the
newspaper has printed. I do know that Joe Bini is a principled and good
man.

DANNY STONE, Carbondale