LKL WEB EXCLUSIVE: Boston Officer "Made a Mistake"

Okay. Why is this guy on your show Larry?

He didn't merely suffer a slip of the tongue in the heat of the moment. He had to write this stuff down. It took some doing and way more thought. I have no doubt that he regrets his actions. Perhaps I question whether his regret stems from the colossal backlash against him. It seems less likely to be true remorse about his offensive remarks per se. The remarks are racist. Surely, he isn't telling us that he isn't racist any more? That was quick. What's his secret? Perhaps he'll check himself into rehab like recent high-profile similar offenders. Maybe then it wouldn't count and we'll forgive and forget?!

What this guy wrote was racist, now he's sorry. I know he thinks he's a good guy, but that doesn't mean we have to think so. What he did was bad and he shouldn't get time on an internationally celebrated television show to make himself look better. You can argue that the arresting officer in the Gates affair was unduly and unfairly vilified. But this guy – he IS a bad guy. There's no doubt. He can apologize, but why let him on your show Larry?

By the way, if his intent wasn't to offend, etc. as per his attorneys statement, pray please tell us, what was? Don't just tell us what his words did not mean. Tell us what he INTENDED them to mean. I really would like him to explain that. Let him answer that one over the phone.

If Barrett has to apologize and face employment discipline; WHY does Gates get away with calling names???
Gates called Crowley "Racist" He called him a "Rogue" and Obama called him "stupid".
[The University has been amazingly quiet on the misconduct of the Professor] What is their policy? Nobody asked them?
{It must be great to have that 'race card' up the sleeve}.
---------
Barrett should face the same discipline as Gates and Obama!
[at least Obama admitted he made a mistake, Gates has NOT!]
Why can they be "Name Callers"?
[oh ya they are not white]

This guy is toast, no matter what he says tonight.

He has shown what he's made of, and he's apologizing only because he's about to lose his job–period.

There is no other interpretation for "banana-eating jungle monkey"–it's a racist remark equating blacks with monkeys. When I lived in Massachusetts, I heard about "monkeys swinging off trees" from people talking about blacks.

He may apologize, but he's still THAT person. The words came from his thoughts, which are still in his head whether he apologizes or not.

Furthermore, he's incredibly stupid. To send a mass email with these remarks to his National Guard buddies AND the Boston Globe...well, you'd have to be a dunce. And a dunce shouldn't walk around with a gun.

Charmichael,
Houston

Gates was right he is a racist. If there had been a white man at that house all he would have had to do was show proof he lived there and all would have been right with the world but because Gates was black he had to do the song and dance that the white man demands. He is a racist and a rouge cop. As for the other policeman he is certainly a racist and proved it to the world by writing it. Now he wants to get on television and say he didn't mean it. Yes he meant it. He said exactly what he meant and how he felt. It's ok to be racist......just be honest about it.

As an African-American woman married to a police officer, I have the utmost respect for the profession because police officers risk their lives daily to help keep us safe. Although I am married to an officer, I am not so naïve to believe that all police officers are there to protect and serve all Americans. I am appalled by the manner in which Mr. Barrett chose to vent his frustration. He showed intentional malice within his e-mail, which leads me to believe in my opinion he is a racist or at the very least he allowed his inner prejudices to truly shine outwardly. For Mr. Barrett to use a negative racial connotation in referring to another human being is not a mistake, but something that has been deeply rooted inside him. Yes, we all make mistakes, but the apology is owed to Prof. Gates first and foremost, not his fellow police officers or the National Guardsmen. This is a “teachable moment” for Mr. Barrett in that not everyone he associates will tolerate such ignorance and bigotry in America. As human beings, we should have respect and love for one another, not hatred.

The comments officer Barrett made are inexcusable. As a police officer he should know better, if he has an ounce of integrity he should do the right thing and resign. He only regrets those comments because they have been made public.

Please, Please, Please.....Somebody fill in Randi Kaye on the correct pronunciation of Propofol. It's "PRO'-PAH-FAUL" She has been mispronuncing the word since you began filing her reports on this silly series of rumors and speculation began.

Tony - thank you!! Randi keeps saying "Pro-po-FIL." WRONG!

Kai:

1. what was Michael's favorite meal?
2. what's your fondest memory of Michael and the kids?

Why would anyone care about what Ann Coulter thinks?

To Ms. Coulter

On CNN

Earlier Thursday, Obama said the chat was prompted by an exchange he had with Crowley, who said in a phone call with Obama, "Maybe I'll have a beer in the White House someday."

The president replied that that could be arranged.

Tony, Nicole, and Sonjanita...you're all on the wrong blog...go google Michael Jackson.

Barrett is an ass, but Cambridge PD Officer Crowley did NOT make a mistake. He did his job, & the "scholarly Harvard Professor" needs to get over himself. He is NOT above question, regardless of his color.

He wasn't sorry until he got caught.

Why? Why? do you even give someone like Ann Coulter a platform to spew her venom. Why?!!!!!

Sonjanita, we're on the third message board talking about Michael. The board about the custody deal. 🙂

I am SO sick of this story! And I'm sick of ppl wanting to make something out of nothing just to get their face in the spotlight...AND I'm sick of the media falling for it.

It amazes me how blacks stick together, right or wrong.

I am just amazed of how Ann Coutler can be so igorant of race. No matter how she tries to explain it she can NEVER really answer the question. For any person, especially white, to think that racial profiling does not exist, specifically among black and hispanic males is lost. I would ask Ann to ride in the car with ANY black or hispanic man say in.......an affluent area.....where there normally is not any hispanic or black man for two weeks and let us know how many times she was stopped..................then.....try the same with a white male....I GUARANTEE you would get different result.

This has nothing to do with women–it has to do with inflammatory behavior on the part of the police. Gates was provoked and he fought back. Good for him!

Not sure which world Ann Coulter lives in, if she thinks racial profiling doesn't happen.

Any chance the cop was racist in his handling of Dr Gates, since it's evident now that he had no problem being a racist hiding behind a keyboard ?

As long as we have the Ann’s in this world we are going to have racial profiling.
Patricia

I guess news will not be informative without adversaries like Ann Coulter or Bill Bennett. The mockery that rolls off their tongue is a backslash to modern man. One can not put a better definition to bimbo than those individuals. They fit right in with all the Sarah Palins.

I think that Ann is way off base. Saying there is no racial profiling in this country is like saying there are no birds in the sky. This is an ignorant woman who needs to live for one week as a black person, then see what her opinion is.

In the case of Gates, the police were way out of line. Once they found out the man lived in the house, they should have apologized and walked away. The man has every right to act irrational in own house with unwanted guests.

Of course as usual Ann Coulter sounds like she is on some other planet. Who could argue that we now have a President, who has the guts and intelligence to bring to people who are significant representatives of race relations . You couldn't write that script.

Larry, I respect you but I don't understand how you can use your airtime to have a discussion with Ann Coulter – she is a shallow, ignorant and lost soul – I can't wait for her to go away from your show so i can enjoy listening to your other guests – i am dissapointed larry, that of all the guest you could choose from you bring Ann Coulter – maybe you enjoy the hype and the nonsense sensation she brings to your show – sorry am not watching anymore until when you have another guest who talks sense

Officer Crowley did what many officers and district attorneys do, he lied on his official report. When he saw a man of color in the house he began his typical profiling. Whatever the case, if it's not in him, it wouldn't have come out. Gates is lucky he wasn't stun gunned to death on his front porch. That's the Texas way!

I don't know what world replublicans live in apparently one free of racism or they just hide from it

If he really didn't mean any offense, how did he know these terms and when to use them?

Racial profiling is alive and well in New jersey. my name is Darryl Johnson,I am a black man who drives a1986 GMC pick-up truck. I am stopped almost daily throughout notrhern New Jersey whenever I venture outside of the city of Paterson where I reside. I would also like to know if there is any way this can be stopped. My vehicle is legally registerd and insured along with a valid inspection sticker. In each illegal stop there were never any violations found or summonses issued. God bless America.

Larry i am dissapointed , where and whay would you have this woman on you program, she is scarry sent her back to the caves

What a horrible guy this Barrett is. He is not sorry at all, just hollow words. Disgusting!!

He is actually reading a script! No emotion, nothing!

Officer Barrett should not be on the Larry King Show. He should be FIRED and lose his retirement for his racist comments!!!!

That came from his heart! He needs to be fired and if he is allowed back on the force, the people of Boston should take to the streets! He is a man filled with hatred and evil!!

Hey Larry,
doesn't all of this basically boil down to proper documentation intially.
Let's face it, the report was filed to begin with inappropriately and not accurately. Let's get down to proper documentaion by police and not just filling in space with rhetoric. In the health we are trained to document appropriately and accurately,,,,,Again I appreciate all the police do but don't get all twisted up to begin with,,,,,report accurately!

OC stands for Oleoresin Capsicum if I have spelled that right, and is more commonly known as pepperspray.

This man definitely deserves to be fired for his actions, and his comments regarding going back to roots is a clear indication of racial ignorance. I believe the man just felt insulted, as did Officer Crowley, btu he needs to learn his place as a protector rather than an incubator and an instigator.

Ms Coulter does not have her facts straight she should be a Minority for a week and see how it feels.

That man made racist comments.
It reminds me of Jesse Jackson saying NYC was hymietown!
I dont like these comments.
But I will forgive him!

Officer Barrett........not sure what you can say about this one.....if he said the words...he really meant what he said.......to me it just proves that white-male arrogance still exist in some people that for whatever reason....are still racist.....he knows it....and now that he was caught and/or suspened....now is apologetic......I accept the apology as a black male but in my mind....I am always going to think that he sees US in another way.....and that is the way it is......

WOW!!! I had no idea what this officer wrote until now. He says he's not a racist but he wrote this letter and I'm SURE he spelled everything correctly.

This seems like a very angry letter. If this is a representation of stressed out police officers in this country, that is a BIGGER problem that needs to be addressed nationwide. That letter is crazy.

He keep saying he's not a racist but that is secondary. The issue is that he has poor judgment and impulse control, two characteristics that are unbecoming a police officer or a mature adult.

There's a rash of these emails, comics and remarks by White people with power from police officers to Congress filled with racial stereotypes, slurs, and epithets since President Obama's inauguration. First, these people need to lose their jobs. Second, white people as a whole, both racist and not racist, need to discuss and debate their folk's behavior and acknowledge that the mindset of racists is why racial profiling and racial discrimination against Blacks exist. They need to discuss it and stop it amongst each other, then we may see a difference in the manner in which both Whites and Blacks interact and think of each other. And, I'm convinced more Blacks will eventually believe there is more racial harmony in America, and not be so quick to conclude these types of incidents like Dr. Gates and Crowley, hiring practices,and police interaction/arrests occur because the "white" person is a racist.

Speaking of being on drugs, not racist! Please! The more this guy talk the more he dig a hole for himself. Is this suppose to explain for what he as done. I think he should STOP!

That man may have been stressed.
He was angry!
I will forgive him.
I forgave Reverend Wright for damning America.
I dont like comments that are racist, or damn America!
However, this man was trying to stand up for his cop!
Just like Jesse Jackson doesnt hate Jews, he dont have Black!
Forgive them!

Officer Justin Barrett is just a nasty individual. What would make him say such a thing about anyone. Yes he used those words before. I don't care how angry you get he meant what he said. NO you don't treat people with dignity and respect your nasty a nasty Police Officer.

I do not buy that the officer didn't realize the type of email he was writing-the language-the inference to Dr. Gates-his utter disregard for his offensive language. There is racial profiling-including profiling based on name and looks.

I feel he should be excommunicated from the force.

I had two white friends driving in a black neighborhood that were stopped by a black police officer and asked what they were doing there. Would you consider this racial profiling?

and this is what we people of color deal with each and every way in this so called united states of america!! where is the outrage on this behavior!!!!!

what >??????? apologize! !!!!!! what is right about this !!!!!>>??? was it the beer ?? OMG

Larry: I am sorry, I do not buy the officer's remarks and sympathetic. He is sorry his remarks was made public. His firing is justified. His Attorney did not do any justice to him by repeating what he said and making it seem worst., CNN John King and Karen cracked up at him this morning because they picked up what I did, the Attorney only hurt him by repeating the racist slurs. This country WILL NOT ACCEPT that kind of behavior from men and women in blue out there to protect us. I cried when I continued to hear these bad words and people continuing to deface the African American race. If he wasn 't punished, it would have given other officers to think that they are'nt falliable. God Bless him and I hope this is a "teachable" moment for him.

why is this guy on the show? What an idiot. Oh, are you trying to show America what racism is? If so, perfect example

Wow his choice of words were not very nice.

Larry I dont like when people say mean things. People are stressed and dont think! President Obama didnt think and made a harsh judgement not knowing the facts!
This is what happens when we are tired!
Lesson to be learned is to get enough sleep and take a break every now and then.
I say that guy has suffered enough embarrassment and disdain!
Now we move on!
Forget this race stuff!
We need jobs!

Dear Larry,
I enjoyed your show today except for the last segment. It was like 'filler' for the leftover minutes......I can't wait to hear Coulter and Sharpton talk on this lying excusemaking bigot who claims he's sorry for what he said! He is ONLY sorry because he got reprimanded and lost his job. We need good cops, but cops who talk like he did are NOT AN ASSET to the force, I don't care if he was a soldier in Iraq.
Where is the love? This country is way out of kilter and I believe few people will believe that this guy hasn't talked like this most of his life.
REALLY>

Yes he used a poor choice of words.......but this whole situation has been blown way out of proportion......what if the police took the man's word.....and allowed him to enter the home.......and it wasn't his.......

The police can't win.....dam if you do.....dam if you don't

Lets start to use a little common sense....

Paul

It has become all to easy for us in America to lash out like this officer did with hateful racist speech and then say we didn't mean it and ask for forgiveness. It has become the American way. What he wrote, did he mean it? Of course he did, those words, those thoughts were in his head. We in nation never accept responsibility for anything, we are always pointing the finger at someone else. When are we going to grow up, or is it too late? I think it's too late, America has changed and not for the better.

Ann Coulter-as unbelievable as her remarks continue to be-is good TV-people like to watch her.

I am a Soldier in the US Army and can never imagine serving under his leadership. I wonder how he made CPT in the MA National Guard.

~Ola.

How can anyone believe Justin Barrett when he said that he had never used the words "jungle monkey" before. His apology is not accepted by me and I'm sure a lot of other people. I did not believe one word of his lie.

I believe he is sorry for his words much like a someone he may have arrested in the past is sorry for what they were CAUGHT doing.

Having lived in Massachusetts for the past 9 years and longing to move out of here, I have come to realize that the real issue with this Barrett/Gates/Crowley scenario is the attitude of the Massachusetts Police officers towards outsiders. It is not a black/white issue. It relates to any outsiders, including race and ethnicity. I have seen it time and time again. Typical Mass attitude!

The pen is mightier than the sword. And inflicts much more damage that is very difficult to retract. Pretty appalling choice of words. Apologies are to easy to make but they to be believed?

How can this Officer call someone a banana eating Jungle monkey then in the next sentence say that he's not a racist?? This guy has HATE and RACISM written all over his face and now he has others trying to make excuses for him, they should fire him never mind suspend him!

ann Coulter has her head on backwards. She should have to live as black or hispanic

this officer is a racist he said what he would do to prof. Gates if he was the police who was confronted by gates. as to his lawyer if this is not about calling Gates "jungle monkey" but if this is about characterization of the act. i don't understand why people went ballistic on the president for saying "acted stupidly". the president never said st Crowley is " stupid" rather he characterized his action " stupidly" so pls lawyer and bad cop don't try to go around and cover up you racism.

I dont like Michael Vick!
Michael Vick is the racist.
How he tortures puppies is sick!

I think ann coulter is dispicable and not in touch with reality. And everytime she's on a program I TURN MY TV OFF!!!

This officer is a racist and disgusting. I have worked with many a "good ol boy" and they put on a good public face. It is amazing to me that in this day and age that this officer could be so blatant. Like Ron White says "YOU CAN'T FIX STUPID" Fire this bigot before he can embarrass the Boston PD anymore.

It's easy to say you are sorry when you are caught doing something wrong. The true test of a person is to look at it from the other person's point of view. I do not believe for one second that he doesn't talk like that when he is around his friends and other people that share his views. Ann Coulter is a first class joke.

Where is the news coverage when a black police officer falsely arrests or makes a derogatory comment towards someone? Why don’t we see this on main stream television?

Justin has very well used those words. He used them 7 times in his email. He knew perfectly well the meaning behind those words.

I'm so sick of people playing the fake "I didn't know" making references to monkies, jungle-monkies, banana-eating monkies stereotype Black people. We just had Zell Meller make the reference, a GOP activist DePass make the reference and the NY Post cartoon make these types of references within 6 months. He knows what he was saying. The fact that he hesitated and looked down before answered showed deception.

Larry:
People wait for Ann to talk over everyone-this is her schtick!
Good TV-Thank you Reverand Sharpton-you are amazing!

Larry Ann I don't believe she has any common sense, She seems to be a racist.

Larry – Ann should fix her eye makeup before appearing on your show.

Larry, Justin Barrett must be on some strong psychotropic medication because he is highly delusional if he expects anyone to believe that his words were not racist. Okay, let's review this one remark – "Jungle Monkey". Oh My God!!!!!!!! Barrett definitely deserves to be dismissed from his job because I guess he forgot that some of us so-called "Jungle Monkeys" pay his salary. It is this sort of sentiment that continues to divide our country!

Justin Barrett'scomments are unacceptable he has no right to talk down to any group of people as he did in any context

I DON'T EXCEPT YOUR APOLOGY, YOU ARE A RACIST AND YOU CLEARLY GOT EXPOSE. POOR CHOICE OF WORDS ARE NOT WORDS THATS BEEN POITED AT THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY FOR YEARS. IF YOUR COMMENTS WOULD HAVE NEVER CAME TO LIGHT, YOU WOULD HAVE NEVER APOLOGIZE......

YOU RACIST

This Boston Cop (Justin Barret) claims he is not a racist, but used a term that has been negatively used against Blacks in America for eons. Then he mentions that he works in the neighborhoods of Mattapn and Dorchester. What is that supposed to mean? There is bad in ALL areas of Boston. I truly believe this cop is a racist or he would have NOT used that derogatory term. He should be ashamed of himself. He should be fired.

Unbelievable! Did you here ann's first words? First of all ,that sgt. should of been insulted when Obama invited him Gates for beer. What should of it had been champagne? Leave Obama alone! Gates was in his house, showed proper i.d., that sgt. shouldn't have arrested him. The cops took it too far.

I live in Mass. and I am appalled at what Mr. Barrett has done. It is very obvious to me that he knew exactly what he was doing, it is an absolute joke that he has appeared on national television all day and is reading a script. In this day and age is he trying to tell us that he didnt know this email would get out?? How embarrassing for those of us who live in Boston.. and these are the people that are protecting us. By the way Mr Barrett is very typical ....

NO!!!! I cannot forgive this officer for the use of the term "Jungle Monkey". That term reflects his true passion for the black race. It is officers like him that cause situations like what just happened with Gates. I raised 2 black males...one of my key points in raising them was to respect the law. Both males were arrested after asking the officer for his "name and badge number"....this is a common occurence in the black neighborhood. How can a black man respect law enforcement officers when he encounters someone like this. To get on TV and apologize because he got caught and on the verge of losing his job!!!!!!.....He got caught with his hand in the cookie jar!!!!

I have never written to a show.....EVER. Ann Coulter is bad enough but that cop "apologizing" for his choice of words and that he is not a racist is the biggest bunch of crap I have ever heard. Jungle – monkey is the most degrading, bigoted, condesencing term in the world. I am Jewish and if someone called me a kike or something of that nature......they are bigoted. Period.

Lauren

Coutier is mentally challenged

Everyone makes comment that their words were not meant what were said. Yet, when President Obama said the officer's acted studpidly, the press had a field day...no one has said that President Obama did not call the officer stupid, only he acted stupidly for arresting Professor Gates while he was in his own home. This is prejudicial act since it is okay for whites to say they were misinterpreted but not okay for President Obama or Professor Gate.

I found the police officer's comment very disturbing and his apology disingenuous. Of course nobody would outwardly admit they are a "racist" and surely not a police officer. However, one can truly be judged by their actions and statements. You are most likely to show your true feelings during a state of anger. He has most definately used these words before with his fellow officers and did not think twice about using them. As a trained officer and law enforcement official, these individuals are trained to handle difficult situations and are should be held at a higher level of responsiblity than the commen citizen.

We cannot continue to pretend that racism does not exist and we cannot presume to think that it will end.

How can a white man call a name that name and not be a racist?

Larry I may buy your book!
Will you sign it?

I appreciate the apology from the gentleman who made those ignorant comments. Athough forgiveness is warranted, punishment must still be enforced. Just as a criminal commits a crime and apologizes to the victim, whether accepted or not, that criminal is still going to serve their time. This man should be fired, and removed from his position of power. The words he chose to email are not words that come out in a one time only fit of anger. Those words and thoughts had to have been how he feels and has felt all his life. I hope the people making the decisions are strong enough to follow through and FIRE HIM!!!!!!

The real problem is not so much racism with this Boston officer; it is the superiority complex to which some police officers feel they are entitled when dealing with the public.

Serving in the uniformed services, be they military or civilian, is no guarantee that an individual will not be subject to prefudice and ignorance. The truth is that people do not automatically shed their belief system and adopt the perfect persona of soilder, sailor, airman, marine, fire fighter, policeman, etc once they put on that uniform. And does Ann Coulter live in a parallel universe? Can the government find the Stargate she uses to come thru and shut it down?

Did the policeman that made the remark about a jungle monkey apologize to Professor Gates? He apologized to the policemen and to America but I didn't hear him say Professor Gates. I have forgiven the policeman!

Please ask that cop – What is his description of a banana eating jungle monkey?

i would like to know what words he would use now that the ones he used....what other words would get that thought across.....?

Officer Barrett should not even be on your show, Larry. What can this guy say to possibly defend himself? He already embarrassed himself, now it's time to go hide in a cave and never come out. What a loser!

I am not racist. Non racist people don't call people monkies....he has no idea where that came from. .Ha ha ha aha It is a part of his small vocabulary,when you are angry and under pressure ,what's in you comes out ,even from the most composed person. He is a very simple and small man and now the world sees how tiny he is..

This man is a racist, he said exactly what he meant, and he will see black people as he labled them, I think this police department need to take some sensitivity class along with a culteral class. These are the men who are suppose to protect . He come on and apoligize to save himself, not because he was really sorry. He is just as manipulating.

Amazing how Caucasian people can use whatever racial slurs they desire in this case "jungle monkey" among others and by saying they are not racists even you Larry say well "That's OK. He humbled himself on my show so it's ok." Of course these same types think the Sotomayor is a racist. And to have the racist, yes I said racist, Anne Coulter spouting her nonsense is amazing. That cop in Boston is exactly why a lot of black people don't trust the police. Until this country is willing to look itself in the mirror and admit its racism it will continue.

Damn.....how do I get to get on TV....because Ann has to be one of the dumbest and lost souls of ......shoot...just plain issues I have ever met. I honestly feel that......you know what....can't even finish......just not worth it.....please Mr. King.....get a better person on your show....forget about the ratings......

Does anyone here know what happened at the home? Really. Anyone? Yeah, the Boston cop who made the ridiculously obvious racial comments should be fired but why are people discussing the arrest/detention if they are not posting what had actually happened?

Please do not forget, A person's feelings are not protected by the Constituion. Was it uncalled for, was it distasteful? He still has a right to his freedom of speech. Welcome to America. Still this best.

Racial profiling either way is wrong, but facts are facts some police are simply JERKS, black white and other. Some police abuse their power, PERIOD, THATS THE ISSUE.

THIS IS SICK TO SAY I AM NOT RACIST SAYING WORDS LIKE BARRETT SAID AND IF YOU SAY IT ONE TIME YOU HAVE SAID IT BEFORE THERE IS NO ROOM IN AMERICA FOR THIS TYPE OF IGNORANCE THAT IS WHY THIS COUNTRY IS IN THE SHAPE IT IS IN RIGHT NOW THIS GOES TO THE SOUL AND HEART OF BLACK PEOPLE

His apology seemed rehearsed and insincere. It sounds like something his lawyer wrote for him and not something that came from his heart. Had his e-mail not been put in the news and cost him his job, I doubt he would be so sorry for his words.

He said he was angry because he felt people were not respecting police officers and the tough job they have. Why didn't he just say that? Why attack people with such horrible terms?

What is this officer apologizing for? He has the right to free speech, and I completely agree with him and Ann Coulter that Prof. Gates should have been arrested for not cooperating with a police officer. As a colored person, I am FULLY aware that there is racial profiling in this country. But in this case, Gates' arrest is justified by what Ms. Coulter pointed out – that because of Prof. Gates' belligerent behavior the officer had an obligation to remove him from his home and stabilize the situation. No one in this country is below the law because of their status, race, and connections.

This cop who is on suspension really needs to go for some serious counselling. He has major issues and certainly does not need to be on the force or the national guard. He hasn't the sense to know he said something offensive and is actually blaming his actions on someone else.

this cop was pathetic tonight. "A poor choice of words". Doesn't know how he came up with "banana eating monkey"? I know why. Because he is racist pure and simple. He doesn't do it on the job, for the same reason I don't do something overtly offensive in the workplace. Because I would get fired! This copy should not get a platform to make excuses. Sitting there with his puppy dog sad eyes. He did something wrong, he has a racist attitude, and he should be fired. He has violated his oath of office.

Having been a black person all my life , I take offense to the term "Banana eating Jungle monkey". This policeman is voicing how he feels about all black people. Ann Coulter should not be defending him. This shows just how ignorant this woman is. Larry please don't give her anymore air time. She has nothing of value to say.

That this officer carries a gun and regularly interfaces with the public is truly frightening.

I don't believe his "apology" for a minute. He is only sorry because he's been outed for the bigot that he is, and now his career is on the line. Enough is enough. This man had time to assemble his thoughts, write his rant, and think about it before he hit the send button. Thank God someone shared his email mail so people can see who he really is. I believe he should be dismissed immediately.

Imagine if he pulled the trigger instead of hitting the "send' button.

It's simply amazing how Mr. Barrett can get away with the racist remarks and then try to apologize for it. His boss then sticks up for him by saying he isn't a racist and a good guy. It appears as though you can say anything and then apologize for it and get away with saying anything. He states that he has never used this type of language before. That sounds like a bunch of crap. Iam sure everyone has use explitives before, but to vent them in an open forum is certainly a God given write by Freedom of speech amendment. If you choose to use this, be man enough to stand up and admit you are a racist if you are. I am sure that if this was stated by a skinhead or someone from the Aryan Nation, they would back up their comment and not cower from what they said.

try so save his job,,, Please cm on this guy is the cancer of the office

This guy is a racist ! He should be fired, not suspended. Hes only apologizing cause he was exposed and is about to lose his job.

try so save his job,,, Please cm on

Ann Coulter SHOULD NOT have been on your show Larry. She has no concept of what happens in America. She never answered any questions asked of her. What a shallow, narrow minded, ignorant woman. What a waste of good airtime.

This is NOT a case of Racism!! Gates was tired and angry and was disrespecting the Police officer, It doesn't matter if a crime was not committed or if Gates was in his own home, he was disrespecting the officer and even if he was white as snow the officer was going to arrest him! I live in NYC and we know not to disrespect a police officer and I'm a white city worker my self.

Mr Barretts' comments that he applogized for was good but to late. The bible says in Matthew 12:35 - A good man out of the the treasure of the heart brings forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil things.
The problem that Mr Barrett has is in his heart, and he said what was in his heart. You can't pick up spilled milk and you can' get fresh water and salt water out of the same fountian.

The Officer meant what he said his statement was well throught out and too well written. There is no reason for him to use the terms that he used in decribe Dr Gates. If this man is returned to duty he should be made to have diverity. If he did not know that these words were racist he should not be a police officer because he have no senitivity told other races and should be considered a racist and not returned to duty.

Officer Barrett had every right to say how he felt, I only wish he would'nt have apoligized.

Larry:
I watched my favourite show tonight, LKL, and listened for an apology from Justin Barrett directed to Professor Gates for having called him a BANANA EATING JUNGLE MONKEY but it was not forthcoming.

Did I miss something?

Kathleen Eaton
Toronto

There is no way that Justin are his lawyer can tell the black community that he is not a races when he is using insulting names to describe Professor Gates, he is not the only police that feel this way, and as long as they are allowed to stay on the force with these races attitudes we will keep having to talk about this over and over again.
Who do you think you are fooling Justin not me and not yourself just tell the truth we see who you are. You told us, game over.
Patricia

I think Rev. al is the winner. Where did Ann come from I think she has been living in another world. Let get her some help. she is so bitter

The comments made by the officer is not just something that is made up but is learned and remembered. The phrase used by this officer seems to be a phrase that is used by many others that look like him and most likely is on the police force as well.
All the testing and screening of candidates will still not prevent the hiring of racist officers. We just have to realize that we still have a way to go before this country really becomes "color-blind"

Thanks to Professor Gates' juvenile temper tantrum, racial tensions are now going to continue escalating in a negative direction. The race card is played continously, so people are becoming immune to it. Common sense dictates you don't whig out on a cop or you will be arrested. That principle applies whether you're white, black, brown or yellow – you don't mouth off to a cop! If Gates had called a locksmith instead of breaking into his house, this story never would have taken place. This entire saga is going to lead to neverending negative stories, jokes, cartoons, slurs, etc. The fact that Obama got involved just made it worse. Since when does the President of the United States get involved in minor police disturbances?

People with attitudes that flawed should not be afforded the opportunity to play any role in public service. Fire him!

He keeps stating i'm not a racist. Then what are you ? People who are not racist do not use racist words like those. He obviously dosen't treat all people with kindness and respect because he believes it's okay to refer to other human beings in those terms. Take a look in the mirror sir, you are a racist!

all the king's lawyers and all the police men, can't put justin barret's words in his mouth again! no one who calls someone of color a banana eating monkey can expect to be seen as anything but a racist.

Why would Mr. Sharpton argue with Ann, she is a comedienne not a politician, she makes a joke of everything. Anyone that argue with Ann are just as silly as she is. She is more entertaining to me than serious. Continue to talk Fred Flinstone and Buggs Bunny to Ann, she can relate to those characters very well because they are of her inner circle. I love her because I get a KICK out of what she says. Any one takes offense to Ann is just as silly as she is, Ann means well, this is how she makes her living. LOL

If your actions and words show that you are racist, then you are a racist.
Ann should stay over at Fox.

I think this cop prove how the boston police are if he was there he would probably locked up mr gates.and he would had lied on him he do not deserve to be on the force.Myself had delt would racial profile it is here in america and never going away.

Officer Barrett didn't pull the statement "Banana-Eating Monkey" out of thin air. These are his true feelings. I don' buy his apology one bit. And by the way, Anne Coulter is a nut case!!!! If she really believes all that "crap" she says then she is living in La La Land. I cannot for the life of me figure out why anyone with good common sense would ever ask her opinion on anything!. It's people like her that give others a negative view of the American people. Do us all a big favor and don't have her on any more of your shows.

Justin Barrett's has acted stupidly, and he is still acting stupidly. He should not be serving as a police because he does not know the meaning to serve as one. His comments are disturbing and he looked insane and could be suffering from a psychological problem; racism. Who wanted fame?

And by the way, I am not black. I am causasion. This is not a racial issue at all.

I believe officer Barrett said exactly what was in his heart, and it was
racist, he was comparing a black man to a monkey, it is straight out racist, and now that he has been suspended he wants to be apologetic, I am not believing that I am not a racist talk, He should not be back on the streets as an officer

ann coulter is a legend in her own mind. she is an arrogant nut. who cares what she thinks.

Justin Barret said on Larry King Live that he had never used those racial slurs prior to that psychosis induced email.....I think Anne Coulter taught him those words.

No matter what Officer Barrett or his attorney say on televison, it is clear that the REAL Officer Barrett showed up (as evidenced by his choice of adjectives and analogies that he used in his written response to the editorial). He can't talk his way out of what he wrote.

That was one of the most painful things I have ever seen. As a human being who happens to be black I feel horrible for him because he is screwed and I hate to see anybody in that position. As a black man I would not want to see him show up as an officer because those comments were inside of him and anger would bring them out.

I hope the president's handling of the situation would allow Officer Barrett an opportunity to sit down with some black people so he could understand why what he said (wrote) was so awful. Maybe that is the way for us as a country to move past things like this.

This officer voiced what was in his heart, what he felt, and what he believed. Policemen such as he should not be on the force. No African American could ever be treated fairly by anyone who considers them to be JUNGLE MONKEYS. It is this type of police officer who engages in racial profiling.

Also, he is only appoligizing because his racist attitude has been exposed. He isn't even man enough to own up to what he said.
Appology not accepted.
Gena

Rev. Sharpton has come along way. He kept his cool with that wacko Ann Coulter who had the nerve to try to argue the side of the conservatives that we're living in a post-racial America. This woman needs to be retired from media. People like her in the media is how this incident got so "big" in the first place; namely, the reporter, Sweet, who asked an irrelevant question at the President's Healthcare Reform press conference. Her motive for asking this question is extremely questionable to me when her focus should have healthcare and us, the people.

Apology not accepted how can you suddenly call someone a name like that. I dosn't sound random it sounds like old school predudice to me. It sounds like language ive seen in books from a long time ago.

I seem to be siding with Ann on this issue. Probably because I am a white male. This is another shinning example of what I call reverse discrimination.I work in Durham NC . I remember the devastating effects of that false racism charge of the Duke La cross team .I am sure that more white people voted for Obama than black . The problem is that whites have moved past the race issue, but understandably It is going to take the blacks longer. PS Obama slipped on this one. He did make a good resolution.I think it good to put the race issue on the table in hopes of healing the wounds of those that have been adversely affected.

Freedom of Speech does not entitle to make offensive comments, especially in a response to a editoral in a well known newspaper. Maybe next time this man(I can't even refer to him as a police officer) will think twice for before he renders his opinion. I hope that he is fired. Never again works as a civil servant. I understand he apologized, but he needs to apologize personally to all parties involved INCLUDING Professor Gates. This was UNACCEPTABLE. What is this world coming to... Shame on you Justin Barrett. You are a disgrace.

I think that everything that officer said was from the heart. I think he is a complete liar to say he's not a racist. I think he is more sorry that he got caught and the first thing people do is to go on Larry King and apologize. Maybe he should have thought of the consequences before he hit send !

What is more bothersome than the officers racism is the Ann Coulter. Racism is a part of the fabric of the American society and whoever want bury their head in the sand and say it ain't so has the officers comments as proof.

If this cop isn't racist then who is??? His words spew as much hate as any kkk member is I've ever heard.

This cop's comments just confirms why there is a fear as an African American of driving while black and being stopped by a white cop.

Officer Barrett said what he said, it came out the way he said and meant it. Now he wants to retract it because he is not backed up by his place of employment or the officer in the Gates case. What a childish act, especially when he had no involvement.

For the comments made by Jerry saying people are stressed out and say mean things. People say what they feel, stress has nothing to do with it. If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, guess what? It's a duck. This racial turmoil is one of the reasons this country is in the mess it's in. How about taking the time to read the Bible and learning the ways of Jesus? Maybe then, these "stressed" out people will think before they speak. Maybe then, they will take the time to get to know one another instead of looking at a person's skin color. This guy is hiding behind a badge so if he gets stressed out or frustrated about an article again, what will he do, go shoot the person.
I hope and pray that God forgives these uninformed people. It's embarrassing that American citizens act this way.

Even in this age, racism still abounds.
It is a shame. However it is what it is.

fire him or be fired, we the people.

How in the world anyone can think that Barrett's apology was sincere is beyond me. How long will it take for people to realize the magnitude of such insults. His comment was not just directed to one person but a whole race. When he was asked if he had used that language before it took him way to long to answer. Please! He just showed his true color and he's not apologizing for what he said he's apologizing because he's in trouble. This is a whole lot worse then the initial incident and his comments just added to the problem. This world hasn't changed and as long as people continue to make excuses for ignorant people like Barrett it never will.

@ Jerry

Michael Vick SERVED his time/sentence, Now he has a right to make a living just like anyone else, because his living might include more money than you or I make shouldn't still give him the right to persue it.

The officer's "apology" lacks substance as far as I am concerned. According to what I read, the apology was written and presented by his lawyer. To me this is worse than no apology at all. In other words if he had the will to make such a statement, he should have the integrity to step up and make the apology on his own.

Koach

Larry,
I am very embarrassed at the fact that this Police Officer and a fellow solider on your show trying to apologize for something that is not tolerated in Law Enforcement and the military. I question now how many soliders that work for him or serve with him, have been subjected by his comments. As a 19 year active duty military police officer, I know his action is not tolerated. He should be held accountable for his actions. In the military, we are held to three important core values; Honor, Courage and Comittment and he violated all three. In our line of work, an apology is too late. We must be professional and 100 percent sure all the time. This is what happens when you do not take two steps back and think about what you are going to say before you say it.

How long ago did Michael Jackson die? Isn't it about time we let it go.
Day in day out that's all we get from you. Isn't anything else news?

Ann: whom is appearently an descendant of jug drinking,sheet wearing,ancestors is in denial because of her backround. Please keep a burning cross out of her hands. How does That FEEL??? Sincerely!!!! ANOTHER MONKEY

This guy really thinks that he said what he said for the very first time? Come on are we really to believe this guy? He is a racist, he had time to think this one through and email it. Heck he even spell checked the thing before sending it out. This is why I will never even visit Boston or live there, one of the most racist cities in the world. Even all the athletes that live there agree to this.

Anne Coulter is a lost conservative who really doesn't have any minority world. She is taking advantage of her " FOX narrow minded thinking" and running to the bank.

Mr King,
I have to forgive Ann. Yes I know she has to take the opposite side EVEN if it does not make common sense.Or there would be no show.

As a black woman who lived in a white area I too have faced racial profiling when I was stopped in my predominantly white area and been able to show I lived in the area via my license,the policeman then said" He stopped me because my car looked liked a friend of his," I am sure as a black woman with my young daughter in the car I did not look like a friend of his.

On another occasion pulling up to the curb of my house I had a flashlight put in my face and questioned in front of my house. So tell Ann to take her head out of the sand. IT IS NOTonly men who face racial profiling

Officer Barrett is obviously a racist. How would anyone spew out "banana eating monkey" and not be a RACIST.I am so concerned that there are police officers of such poor quality on the police forces of our nation.This police officer is particularlly disturbing .He is supposed to be protecting and defending the population. He is obviouly an angry person with a gun at his hip which is also very distubing.We all must remember that we are all equal . The Boston Police Force, it would seem, has some work to do.

he's just trying to save his job,he's dangerous to the public and if they don't fire him what does it say about this police department.people stand up and make them do right , you have the power!!!!

this is the biggest shame of all time, he's caught and can't handle the truth. Why did he say what he said ? I"m tired of I did"nt mean it, own up to it big man.

Justin Barrett's
should be booted out of service,The man cannot be trusted in COMBAT

Professor Gates is a good example of how an educated black man can deliberately provoke others to create controversy and draw attention to himself. Is his intent perhaps to make money on this somehow through lectures or a book? This man has hurt a lot of innocent people and still gets to dine with his friend ,the president. He has proven that you don't have to be white to be a racist!

Larry, AnnCoulter and others have determined this case is the professors fault only and no racial profiling occured. When in fact they are determined to undermine Obama and unwilling to accept him as their president.. Why, you say, perhaps his skin color has a little something to do with it, racial profiling.

If you have never lived as a black person , then you do not have the experience of a black person; and cannot speak on that experience. While much has changed, we are by no means on equal footing with our white counter parts. If you need to be reminded of this here is one example you can't argue with: The prison population numbers do not represent the black/white ratio of this country..

it would have been very wise of him to think about those words before he spoke them being the pubic person that he is, racist are not, your opinion is just that your opinion,kept them to your self,

thank u avery words well spoken.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. I guess nothing has changed at all in America, since the election of '08. if anything, it seem as though things are worse!

This is very scary. This man should not be in the police force and he should not be in the army because he has to 'defend' not just white people but what he calls 'banana eating jungle monkey'.
If this is not racist what is? He went further and said go back to your roots!
His true colors have come out for all to see and now he says he never intended his words to have such a racial connotation. Really???
Every arrest of a minority he has ever made in Boston and his behaviour in Iraq should be investigated because I am sure where there is smoke there is fire.
Every black person that has to work with or under this man should voice their greatest protest and refuse to work with him. He is as racist as they come. Shame on you officer and shame on yo mama for not teaching you better!

Hi Larry,first let me as an African Caribbean American that this officer who spewed his rascist rant through his email and got caught now wants to apologize is so full of it..when are people of another color of the human race going to stop thinking that blacks don't know the difference between rascist remarks and a legitimate mistake going to happen?we have lived with it for at least 400 years,so we definitely know the difference..APOLOGY NOT ACCEPTED!!!people who think like this are nothing but DANGEROUS,add that to the power of being a police and it's doubly dangerous....like Public Enemy saidback in the day,"Can't trust it"

I don't feel that an apology is adequate for what that racist cop said. He only appeared on tv to save his sorry butt. He needs to be fired from the police department and the national guard, fitted with a sheet, and banished to the compound to live among his other white supremacist buddies.

Ann Coulter , Rev. Sharpton and Larry King should have discuss this over beer.

Officer Crowley was doing his job for which he was trained for.. I wish there were more officers like him.. Go Officer Crowley! Gates and Obama owe you an apolgy . They need to get over this and get on with the more important issues of this world. Come on down to N.C. any day of the week. Hang in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sometime there is gray area, sometimes there is not. Officer Barrett's comments, directed towards Professor Gates serves to eliminate much grey area in that they are clear, direct and indefensible. For Officer Barrett to ask for forgiveness is not in question; he can ask and I can refuse. I am african-american and work in sales. If I had $1 for every occasion that I've experienced overt and covert racism in the daily function of my job, I would have retired years ago. However, I have always maintained the resolve not to express my displeasure confrontationally on those occasions. Believe me, at 6'3", 240lbs, I could have "corrected" my offenders with extreme predjudice. It is my own self-respect that keeps me professional at all times. Even if I were to consider an acceptance of Officer Barrett's apology, I would still insist that he pay for his offense. He should lose his job because of the latitude that he has taken with the responsibility attached to his job. He has the support of the law enforcement behind him and he wears a gun on his hip that he is authorized to use at his discretion. He is no longer qualified for the faith entrusted to him and he must go.

Larry, I just today joined a group of similar minded people whose effort it is to get rid of Lou Dobbs from the CNN. I value your show and think that you are very fair in your prresentations. While I do believe that CNN is much more objective than other news programs, I think that your choice of commentaters sometimes leaves a lot to be desired. Ann Coulter is a dummy and an insensitive dummy at that. She caters to right winged uninformed people who will believe anything that keeps America in the darkest days of our history. Larry, don't sell out for ratings. This trend is dangerous and need not be on national TV representing the best news available. CNN is a great format. Keep it that way. As for Dobbs. It's to late, he has just gone to far.

Larry,
Thank you for this oppotunity to express my opinion. Officer Justin is sincere very sincere with his appology; due to the temporary maybe permanant lost of his job after two years on the force. Let me futher explain why I know he was fully aware of the sensitivity of his comments.

Speaking as a retired military veteran; Officer Justin states 16 years of military service where education is taught and re-enforce on racism; sexual harrasment; favortisim and ect... by those in leadership positions on an annual basis if not bi-annual. So now stop and think did he as a commanding officer in the military know the consequences of his comment(s). He just did not think he would lose the support of his kind rather that of the blue force or what ever organization he is affiliated with. Or did he really lose that support?

Ann Coulter......wow, she is a piece of work. She continued to bring up the Tawana Brawley case, clearly trying to bait Al Sharpton. He finally bit, however Ann couldn't not think of anything recent regarding his being wrong about a case of racial profiling. She then mentioned the Duke Case ......not racial profiling, something totally different. I thought she was smart....not.

justin barrett isn't fooling anyone; he claims he's never used that language before; not only is he a racist, he's a liar; he should be fired; we don't need peace officers like him on our streets; thanks ~

Who's Tawana Brawley? Someone else mentioned that on another blog when referring to Al Sharpton.

JUSTIN BARRET NEEDS TO GO TO SARGENT CROWLEY'S SENSITIVITY TRAINING.......TONIGHT!!!!!!!

How do you change mindsets of a people who seems to have inferiority complex syndrome? Why would anyone take time out of there lives to jump in a fray that they have no direct involvement? This mans' face told what was in his mind to say. It said, "Duh I'm not very smart, yes I am a captain but not by my own merit, I am very opinionated because of the favor I received in making me a officer's officer, I thought that if I said something derogatory in this case it would elevate me further and I just could not stand by and let that black officer have a say and I couldn't, even though I was not there and to cap it off I am sooo sorry that I devalued a whole race by calling one of high esteem a slanderous name. Please forgive me for my stupidity".

Made a mistake >>> YOU THINK. Completely unacceptable. He needs to be discharged. I don't for one minute think he is sorry or that his apology is sincer. And frankly I would not want such a hot head on the force or in the reserves. Kick him to the curb,

Mara, you must be very young. Google Tawana Brawley.

Larry
Listen to a police radio during one of your shows pick a few major city police departments and listen to them Larry live as crimes come in from 911 and count how many discriptions are M/B's I am not a racists I am retired member of NYPD . You will see that this will prove what we have to deal with on a daily basis its not profiling its a sad FACT! We Forgot that the same day of this incident a Police Officer from NJ gave his life in the line of duty and the perp's sister who was black apologizied to the officers famliy she is an example of a good American !

Larry,
Two nights in a row, you disappoint me! How could you say that maybe we can forgive that hate mongering cop! If he is not racist, where did that type of language come from? Larry, you don't wake up one day and just start spewing that kind of venom towards someone. You have to have practice!
Last but not least, if he had used language that disparages Jews, I am not so sure you would have been as amiable towards him.

I appreciate your time!

Shelly

There is no way that officer Barrett can claim he is not racist. I am a white woman and I find his words obscenely offensive. Noone but a racist would think of saying those words. He is a racist and should be immediately fired. He cannot be trusted on the streets with a gun in his hand.

To Mr. Darryl Johnson,

This should not happen to you, or anyone else. It is not within my power to change your circumstances, but please know, that if I could, I would. Take Best.

Wow this cop is racist and a bald faced liar. Larry King come on you think all of a sudden he started had a lapse of judgement and starting using racist slurs. I bet most of his white sheets have two holes in them.

Boston Cop, Barrett
He is apologizing for his racial email remark about Gates but how did he come up with that sentence in the first place?

As officers face heated words, their tactics vary because of their mindset at that moment. Officer Barrett profiled in a email remark that professor Gates was nothing else than a ”Banana eating hungry jungle monkey”. How in the world could he come up with that and now apologizing?
How come that apparently successful individuals rise to well defined values …and suddenly commit the most ludicrous blunders…..actions that wreck business, family and others? The mechanism behind this lies in the inner mindset dynamic of people.
When your computer is activated with a computer virus, the computer becomes corrupt. The same is happening with people. When an individual his inner mindset dynamic is triggered resulting to a disturbed mindset…the individual will manifest actions and behavior that are destructive. Ones the mindset is reorganized after the destructive behavior, that person realizes his mis-behavior or action.

.My firm conviction is that the educational benefit of the “Gates affair” will not come about from the moral posturing of politicians or from more intense “sensitivity training” for police officers. Nor will it come from the president having a beer with Professor Gates and Sergeant Crowley.
Rather, along with Senator James Webb, Democrat of Virginia, I believe we should be pursuing far-reaching reforms in our society system and re-educate Americans at several levels of society to live a responsible, inclusive and sustainable life style that promotes balanced and aligned mindsets.

Soeresh Gobardhan

Officer Barret seems incredibly insincere in his comments and is more interested in Other than white friend dropping than anything else. Reminds me of Stephen Colbert's Black friend contest.

The Boston Cop is an idiot toting a gun and that's dangerous! He should not be on any street in America. It's extremely scary to think that an officer of the law, on the streets of America, could even form his mouth to make such awful comments. I believe that there are many good police officers out there protecting citizens. But this guy has a vengence, he's dangerous.

For all of you weighing in on the Gates/Crowley situation should just stop and think for one minute. You're arriving home from a trip, lock out by accident, (which is frustrating enough) to then have police officers questioning you in your home, even after you have proven that you're the owner. IMAGINE THAT! The police officer should have left the residence at that point. It should ended right then and there.
Patty

The President shouldn't be involved in the Gates vs Cop case or ANY race issues. He's got more problems to deal with!

It is appalling to read such words printed by a police officer and guard; and I note that he has apparently little or no insight into himself, claiming not to be racist in his thinking. Anyone who can refer to people as animals with such words should not be conisdered suited to be a protector of people in any way...but rather an enemy, not to be trusted.

What tactless Jibber Jabber! How can anyone offer an apology for the interpretation of what he or she wrote? Or might I say, have someone else write an apology for them. To have enough thought to write such putrid, vile, hateful, disgusting and ignorant words, and then allow someone else to apologize his thoughts or words. How disgusting! Do they (He and his legal representative) really think the American public is that dumb? Maybe I should give him the benefit of a doubt though… Perhaps his words were not well thought out, maybe the flowed so freely because they were so well rehearsed.

This cop, Justin Barrett, is as racist as they come!! How convenient that he has his lawyer, Peter Marano, write an apology!! What's the matter Officer Barrett, cat got your tongue??!! Amazing that you can write all those hateful, racist remarks to the Boston Globe, but somehow, when everyone turns their attention to you, your hand is broken and you can't write a thing and need a lawyer to write your apology. It is pathetic...You are not only a racist, but you are PATHETIC!!! Officer Barrett, I hope you are dismiss permanently from the police department...it is much too scarey for you to be out on the streets of Boston or any other city. Apology not accepted. Signed a White Woman from New York!

I have never gotten so riled that I had to write in about anything, but this officer claiming not to be a racist but in his anger the only words that come to his mind to describe a black male (a well known Black Professor) is to call him a "banana eating jungle monkey" and the comment about "back to his roots", is a deep seeded racist undercover. My late husband died from Agent Orange Inoperable Lung Cancer from doing 2 tours of duty in Vietnam as a Medic, USA Retired 25 yrs. & he was also a Retired Correctional Officer so I have all the respect for policemen and women (along with my Pastor just retiring as a 25 yr. Police Officer). This man appalled me and to hear Ann compare this man's apology to the incident between Prof. Gates and Sgt. Crowley , is unbelieveable (Sgt. Crowley did not use those words in speaking of the Prof.). I agree wholeheartedly with Rev. Sharpton! (Yes, we all came together to elect President Obama but it seems that we took one step forward and two steps backward as to say in this situation!!)

Gary Chandler in Canada (why doesn't this surprise me), Gates didn't call Crowley (as far as we know), whitey, a cracker, or whatever else you can call white people. That's the difference buddy.

Actually Judy, this is right up any and every presidents alley. It's exactly one of those issues that defines a nation's character and therefor needs presidential guidance. You're just not used to having your public leaders acting with honor and integrity.

Teachable moment..? Rev. Sharpten's right. How can citizens ever trust police officers when one of its (younger) members has the audacity to apologize for foolish and racist remarks... then emphatically state – on national tv – that he is not a racist, nor was race ever at the heart of his point (his e-mail)?

Is the under-currency of racism still that deep seated that it surfaces, blatantly, within a young man... and he doesn't even know it?

Officer Barrett's words were awful and hateful. Yes, he should be reprimanded for his dispicable choice of word. I don't think he should be fired because he placed his foolish foot in his mouth. He deserves a chance to make amends for his action.. We all have said or done something regrettable during a time of anger.

If the situation was reversed, no one would have ever heard about this case. It is all too often that african americans play the race card. It is so obvious that crowley is not a racist and with that being said...it is so obvious that gates is, or he has some hang ups with his own identity.
Larry, could you please ask your african american viewers "why is it racist to describe someone as a black man?"
I feel terribly sorry for this officer who was honestly trying to uphold the law in his community and its a shame that he is being degraded for it.

Deborah

I am. I did and wow that is horrible what they did to her and they were found innocent? Wow. Unbelievable.

I am a follower of Anne Coulter for years. I bought her books and believed in her vision of a self-supportive America. But after hearing her close-eyed manipulation of sober discussion I am now no longer a supporter of her. I am ashamed and disgusted that she would manipulate discussion in such a ham-fisted juvenile fashion. How in the world can you compare Justin Barrett’s wanton, patently obvious and potentially injurious racial epithets and pepper spray threats (he is a police officer entrusted with protection of the whole community) with a home owner’s belligerence during an erroneous police call. This police officer (Justin Barrett) has at best compromised his competence to uphold such an honorable and responsible position and at worst…well the community to which he is a servant must decide. I urge Ms. Coulter to apologize. And to Anne personally….you don’t always have to sit out on the farthest limb….we can’t follow you to that precarious perch.

Mara honey, please read more, Tawana's story turned out to be a hoax. What she said did not happen, which is what crazy Ann Coulter was referring to.

I couldn't believe Justin Barrett could sit up on live TV and say he wasn't a racist. Shame on him big time....does he actually think he could convince himself or anyone else that he felt bad about what he said. Sounds to me that this is a part of his daily vocabulary. I was embarrassed to just by the fact that he is of the same race as I am. I'm sorry but he should have been fired without question. Al Sharpton had fire in his eyes along with the rest of us. This whole race thing is so out of control. First of all President Obama had no business commenting as he did and then feeling "stupid" himself and holding a beer meeting. What kind of example does that set for himself being the President of the United States. Something is terribly wrong with this picture and I'm so glad I wasn't a part of it. I have listed to other comments Ann Coulter has made and she needs a reality check herself. Perhaps they need to attend a formal workshop on treating all people with respect regardless of their race. The only reason I feel I needed to vent is for the simple fact I have witnessed far too many times on black people being treated unfairly.

I am a very optimistic person. My friends always tell me they are going to stop discussing their problems with me because I can always find something positve about the situation and it usually causes them to see things in a different light. But this situation reght here I can't seem to find any positive. I feel the statements were definitely racist and the officer knows it. Sorry no apology accepted for this one.

I THINK I LOST EVERYTHING I JUST WROTE.tHAT BOSTON COP IS RUDE VULGAR AND HAS NO CLASS,AND HE SHOULD B PUT OUT OF HIS POSITION,HOW DARE HIM,HOW WILL HIS CHILDREN AND HIS WIFE LOOK AT HIM AS HE SAYS HE'S SORRY,NO A CHILD SAYS THEY R SORRY FOR DOING THE WRONG THING,THIS IS SUPPOSE TO B AN ADULT,I WOULD'NT WANT HIM TO TEACH ME ANYTHING CAUSE IT WOULD B WITHOUT CHARACTER.I HAVE BLACK FRIENDS WHO R OF POLICE FIREFIGHTERS,THEY WOULD NEVER BEHAVE LIKE THIS TO ANYONE OF ANY COLOR RACE,RELIGION AND I MYSELF R JEWISH SO I GET IT.THIS COP IS OUT OF LINE AND NOW OUT OF A JOB.TO BAD SO SAD.SHOULD'VE BEEN A GOOD MAN,I HAVE 0 RESPECT FOR U AND PEOPLE LIKE U.........

Every since President Obama was elected the race card keeps coming up. With Justin Barrett remarks about Banana Eating Jungle Monkey this is how a lot of white people see Black people. It is so sad about this kind of thinking among persons that are working on the police force. My question would be how many other persons on the police force think like this? I know God is keeping great notes on all of these racist acts. Just know that these acts might be the ones that keeps you out of heaven. Before you speak just ask your self if you would want that to be said about you.

THE TAWANA STORY WAS ABOUT MONEY, NOT ABOUT RACE JUST LIKE ALOT OF STORY OUT THERE, WHERE A WOMAN CLAIM RAPE BY SOMEONE OR GROUP (GOVERMENT, SCHOOL,SPORT HERO) WHICH MAKE IT BAD FOR THOSE WHO REALLY ARE ASSULTED.

Valdene

Oh, oops now I see. Thank you.

In the Gates and Crowley case. I just want someone to ask Sgt. Crowley why did he lie in the police report about two black men with back packs if he knew Gates was wrong and he wasnt racial profiling. He didn't expect Gates to confront him in the manner that he did since he was an old Black Man. Suprise!! Suprise!! I feel Crowley should be suspended and I think he should have to take anger management classes instead of teach how not to racial profile.

Officer Barrett's attorney says that it was a poor choice of words and a mistake, but the nation did not give that much credit to the President for his choice of words with Officer Crowley and Mr. Gates (touche). The only reason Officer Barrett is apologizing is because he was caught. If he did not have any racial tendancies then he would never have responded in such a manner. The fact that he did just proves that he is prejudice. He has embarrassed his fellow police officers and national guardsmen, been suspended, and his family is receiving backlash because of his choice of words. These are the ONLY reasons why he is apologizing. Not because he feels any genuine remorse. If anything he is probably angrier now that his choice of words describing an African-American got him suspended.

Is he for real? What is he sorry about, getting caught? And how can he think that he is not a racist? Probably because all of his friends think the same way. Guess what? That makes you and all of your friends racists! You say you don't know where that language came from? I would say your parents fed it to you over the dinner table. You should NEVER be allowed to interact with people ever again!!!!!

As for Ann Coulter, I think that the Boondocks was right on! Ann, get a real job!!!!!!!!!

To Al Sharpton...this is one time the world would give you permission to go off your nut on Ann Coulter!!! Go for it Al !!!

lary king is promoting people for racisim. lary king needs to be retired and have someone who is young and energetic and objective do his job. he looks scary. sometimes he looks like a corp.

I am a white man living in South Florida, I agree with al sharpton, if the police came to my house and tried to arrest me for tresspassing I would of had a fit myself, they had no right to arrest Professor Gates in hie own home,

We hear about black men/women getting stopped by white cops and being harassed now ask Mr. Sharpton what he thinks it is like to be white and get stopped by two black cops and harassed. Is that different or to be tolerated?

well now i know why ann coulter is the way she is. she is for rights of trans-gendered people. my god, her adams apple is bigger than the bass singer in the statlers brothers.

I think Ann needs to walk in a black man's shoes before she can have any opinion. I have personally seen this profiling not only for blacks but hispanics too. It may not be something they do unconsciously but it does happen and I don't know why Ann is even being asked for her opinion over Al Sharpton who probably has dealt with many prejudices.

I think upon learing that Prof. Gates is the owner, Oficer should have not arrested him, Gates anger was suitable, question is did Officer initiated some kind of behvaior to make him angry< there is a bias in this case, I still belive officer was wrong. I am not black nor white,
I am foreign origion white. Thanks Larry

What I used to explain to ranting people when I was a police officer was that it is against the law to disobey a lawful order from police and prudent to obay an order even though you don't think it's lawful. Your remedy after the incident is to get legal council and pursue any remedy allowed to you by the law.

To Ann Coulter...I would love to hear of a Black Officer entering your home and telling you to leave because there is not doubt, whether you were traveling or not, you can't keep your mouth shut for a minute!!! You'd surely be arrested!! Would that be "reverse racial profiling"? I'd really wish that for you but you'd probably just write another ridiculous book forcing a publisher to pay you an absurd amount of money, which would only cause you to speak uncontrolably somemore!!! Enough!! Shut up!! As an avid reader, I am proud to say, I don't own 1 of your books, nor would I ever read your web page, your column, or anything else you'd write.

Mind-boggling that The President got involved in this at all. There must have been thousands of people of many races on that one day arrested for alleged break & enter without his getting involved. The fact that the professor was his friend should have been a good reason for him to LEAVE IT ALONE!

Let's start it off like this... Both of these individuals are wrong. Anne Coulter is a dummy. The woman does not hold any creditable knowledge. She just wants to have people listen to her and will say anything to get the attention... Al Sharpton... wow.... Al is a dummy too. The only difference between Al and Anne is that Al has a little bit more class... but he is still a dummy. All in all, the police were wrong for arresting this man because it was his own home, and the professor was wrong for acting like this world owes him anything. Black people (me being one of them)... all black people know that we still deal with racial discrimination in this world. Me living in Texas knows this first hand. Look at the McLelland case in Paris Texas where a black man was run over and dragged by two white men who spent only 90 days in jail and then let out; police stating that the truck was washed off under the carriage and run through tall grass which tampered with evidence?!?!? I mean come on, this is just to common.

As soon as the professor showed his driver's license with the proof of this being his residence, the officer's duty was to leave and possibly apologize if he, the Officer, might have been a little too harsh. However, to arrest the professor after he provided proof, is beyond his scope of duty. "To Serve & Protect", doesn't include arresting someone that's in the right and certainly hasn't committed any crime. If I were the superior of this officer would be suspended for 90 days without pay, and a public apology to the professor.
As far as the Policmans' Union, they're going to side with the officer no matter what he's done. IT's a pity.

P.S.

To the attorney, let it go!! Your client didn't just make a little mistake. and your comment about not intending to spew racial discord or hate speech, come on!!!! He's not sorry for saying it, he's just sorry for the interpretation? Give me a break!!! Tell me, how should we view hate speech these days?

Hi Larry, I watch your show every evening and look forward to becoming informed about issues and world news, Tonight, I must say, as an educated African American mother and teacher, I am disgusted by Officer Barrett's comments. I am insulted that he claims he's not racist when those words are CLEARLY beyond racism, it does not take a college educated person to figure that out. The saddest part of it all is, I am willing to bet my salary that he gets his badge and gun back. Its insane for someone who says such horrible, painful and RACIST things to be in a position where violence may be needed. It breaks my heart that my students, husband, nephews and cousins, who are also young and black, will have to walk the streets with someone like Officer Barrett who has referred to older versions of them as "jungle monkeys"
An apology was given but a resignation or termination is needed! Racism can not be tolerated and should not be forgiven in cases like this. It sends the message that its somewhat acceptable and makes most african-americans feel very threatened, hated, not protected and irrelevant. Lawyer or no lawyer, its time for REAL CHANGE!

Ann what about Susan Smith who accused a black of stealing her car with her two children inside when she herself had MURDERED them!
Or the Boston man who MURDERED his pregnant wife and blame a black man. Get her head out of the sand yes racial profiling is an ugly thing but it's here and will stay as long as people as yourself continue to deny its existance.

It is at least nice to see that this racist person is also an evolutionist.

Ann represents the vast majority of Caucasian Americans that refuse or try to not acknowledge that racism still exist in America. Contrary to what your philosophy professor probably told you...if a tree falls in a forest and you don't hear it...guess what, it still makes a sound. Just because you close your eyes and click your heels, doesn't mean there is no racism in America. For her to say on national television that there is NO racial profiling in America is preposterous. It would have made some logical sense for her to say there is some but maybe not as much as is reported, than to refute racial profiling altogether. I question how a blonde haired white woman in America can comment on the existence of racial profiling. AND, as we now see..Officer Barrett is a racist...as PROVED in his e-mail. He deserves his suspension and is a disgrace to those police officers dedicated to protecting and serving the community.

Why is he apologizing to the other policmen? He never directly stated that he apologized to Professor Gates and that is who was disrespected in the first place. There is nothing that he can do or say to take back what he voiced. Those are his true feelings, and now the world knows it. You can tell he is not sincere or else he would have apologized to the correct person FIRST.

As long as the republicans have Ann Coulter, Rush Limbaugh and Sarah "the quiter" Palin leading their party,, the Dems have it made. These people are what I call Americas Genius. A person who knows more and more about less and less!

Racist cop Barrett: I apologize to cops, soldiers, citizens and
oh yea ummmmmm blacks too....I guess

This cop is a pure racist and doesn't even know it. Someone needs to really get this through to him so that he will understand what he really stands for. This is typical of people who have racism bred into them and then claim they have no idea, Barrett's own words, where the words came from. The real racist doesn't even realize he is racist and this fits Barrett to a tee. Someone needs to help him with counseling asap.

For Officer Barrett: Remember, Out of the obundance of the heart; the mouth shall speak. We tend to speak whats on our hearts, especially when the people we are targeting are not listening.

Officer Gates is sitting on TV apologizing because he was suspended from his job. How dare he refer to a Harvard Professor as a jungle monkey.This should prove to Ann that the United States has a long way to go. Would he have refered to a White man as a Jungle Monkey? The answer is No .

This Officer is a liar. If this is the first time he's used derrogatory terminology towards minorities, is impossible. One just doesn't use these words unless he's used them before. Give me a break.

This is what I believe Sgt. Crowley and Louis Gates are not racist. They just experienced an everyday happening that goes on between a cop and a civilian. What person likes to be questioned by a cop. Better yet, what cop likes to relinquish h/her authority to a civilian. But Ann Coulter – now that is a racist if I ever saw one. Does she secretly work for some hate group. I never thought I would say this but if I had to choose, I would choose to side with Al Sharpton (reluctantly). I am a staunch republican who believes that our party has some serious work to do if we have to rely on the likes of Ann Coulter.

He said what he maeant, he meant what he said: he knew that he would get national fame and attention for his actions. He is not sorry, nor does he need forgiveness because it is not jis goal!

Larry King...forgive this!!!...last time your show interfers with the
reception my TV !

Barret wrote what was in his heart. Now that his career is in jeopardy, he wants to submit a weak apology. No remorse whatsoever, no taking of ownership on his part.

Who is this guy kidding? There is no way he could not know that the language he used was racist! In answer to a post below, Crowley made those comments on the job. This officer sent his email in a work related capacity. Gates was on his own time, which is why his employer doesn't need to get involved.

I imagine the cop who wrote this letter knew exactly what he was saying and does not regret it at all. Maybe he was affected by the president saying he did a stupid thing. I agree the language in the letter is strong but it is free speech here and people can see him as the ignorant person he is for commenting on someone like that.
I do not think I have ever seen so much racial unrest since they integrated our schools in the 70s. Will we survive 4 years of this crap?
I think the president is too hands on.
We can certainly have adjustment disorders but shouldnt let them interfere with out lives.
If I go into a neiborhood where drugs are sold I am racial profiled also.
Look I dont care, I have nothing to worry about. I will do like Colon Powell said, Like I learned to do, in elementary school, give the police the respect they deserve, when they ask us a question answer it and treat others like we would like to be treated.

The on air confession of Officer Barrett reminds me of false confessions coericed out of our military personnel overseas. It is very apparent he desires to keep his job but he has the right to speak as he so chooses whether it is merited or not.
How about an on air confession from Sharpton for doing his more than fair share of keep ing racial strife alive and well in America alive?

I hope people now understand what creates the "Angry Black Man." Black men are NOT born angry...they get that way after being treated a certain way because of the color of their skin...unfortunately everyone isn't as strong as Dr. King.

Justin Barrett evidentally has issues to have let an artical get him so hyped and start calling people out of their name. You are clearly racial deep down or the words wouldn't have come out of your mouth. Insecurities cause ignorance.

This officer is just scared. Sure he's going to say he's sorry for all of the backlash that is going on. He's just sorry that he got caught and this was captured in the media. I'm sure this wasn't his first time to say those words and he clearly knew what was to be interpreted by those words.

To Flint: It is neither different, nor to be tolerated...but how often do u actually hear of that happening?

OMG. That apology was just as worriable as Chirs Brown... prepared, rehearsed, and meaningless.

Justin Barrett is a prime example of someone who should not be serving the public. I do not believe it was his first time calling a black man a jungle monkey. If I am mad about something, those are not thoughts that come automatically to my mind when I see a black person. I have overheard police officers joke about women, blacks and hispanics and these people have no business working in the police department. I know there are great officers out there but just like any other profession there are some bad ones too. Justin should not be allowed to return to his job.

Larry, I refuse to believe that the officer has never used those words before. Regardless of how mad you gotten nothing should make you come out of character. The officer spoke what was in his heart. He may not be a racist but his comments was racist. He needs to apologize for his racist slur!!!!!

Larry,

The Boston Police officer on your show is nothing more than a racist who is only sorry because he faces suspension if not termination of his job. I once heard my pastor say," that what is in you will come out of you." He is a true racist. He has some true issues, and he is a outright hypocirte.

It's really true out the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Justin only wrote what was in his heart, now that he knows maybe he can get down to looking at himself to determine who he wants to be when it comes to people of other races. I can respect a man who doesn't lie I don't believe for one moment that that is the only time Justin used the words. You can't change an attitude until you come clean.

Mr. Barrett should not carry a gun. Whatever else happens,
please, someone get that gun away from that angry man.

The bible says your mouth is like a sword. well the sword just cut his wallet. Ah yes. What you feel in silence will always be revealed

J. Barrett is ony contrite because his job is in jeopardy. Sadyly, while he denies using racist terms before, I doubt that seriously. He probably has used this and others before. Again, sadly, he has children who learn this behavior.

So, Barrett says he's not a racist. Well, anybody who uses a term like "banana-eating jungle monkey" is indeed a racist, and does not need to be in a position serving the public! ! He should resign his position with the police force.

As for Ann, I wonder how she would act if she had been in Gates' position with the cop? That just won't happen, because she is Caucasian! She has no clue how Gates felt in that situation!

Justin Barret

This doesn't seem real. It's as if I'm in a time warp and the world has regressed 50 years. Do you realize you are representing the police force and the entire white race? I'm embarrassed. This is not a mistake. This is what you have lived your entire life (referring to your derogatory remark). This is the type of language you have heard from your relatives and friends. You never thought when you wrote that remark that their would be repercussions. Did you feel superior when you wrote that hurtful comment? How do you feel about all the other races in the world? How do you feel about people in general?

THIS MAN IS DEFINATELY RACIST AND IS A PUBLIC SERVANT? HE SHOULD BE FIRED AND NEVER RE HIRED IN AN OCCUPATION SERVING THE GENERAL PUBLIC.HE IS TRUELY STILL LIVING IN THE STONE AGE TO ACT THAT PRIMITIVE.

Justin Barrett ! I will pray for you!
May the Lord have mercy on your soul !

Officer Barret calls a man a banana-eating jungle monkey and then claims that he isn't racist? That is the biggest pile of crap that I have ever heard!

Barrett is too a racist-end of story.Ann Coulter is made out
of the same mold.Is it because she's built like and looks like
a man? Well her eyes buldge she's pale as a ghost and always
edgey...me thinks she's mentally disturbed.Get help hefer!!!!!'""

This is all ridiculous...my personal opinion is this: WE HAVE A BLACK PRESIDENT NOW AND THE WORLD JUST NEEDS TO GET OVER IT. White people have been running the world for decades and getting us into more trouble...why not give a black man a chance?

This comment is for Gary from Canada. You talk about pulling the race card? The fact is the race card is always used first when they profile BLACK people. So for you to say that it must be nice to pull the race card out of your sleeves, we are apparently plaYING THE HAND THAT WE WERE DEALT!!

I think Justin Barrett, if let back into the police force, will not be contrite, but will make sure he is no longer held accountable for anything he might do or say. He is apologizing not for what he said but for the furor he has unleashed. And your guest, Ann, ought to go fishing someplace else. Her irrationality is palpable and it is surprising that she can pull it off with a straight face.

Oh Lawd Coulter please, the proffesor locked his self out and a neighbor called in concern, and the police responded puffed up in the first place and thought they are going to keep control of the situation even if it involved making this black man back down and shut up. All the situation needed instead of using up the tax payers money by arresting this man just said our mistake and walked off knowing this was the proffesors house. Apologize and leave.

Larry it is impossible for that office to make the comments he made about professor gates unless it was in him. It is sad that a police officer would use such sentiment and even more so for a captain in th army national guard. This individual is a disgce to both the police forces as well as the military. As a proud military retiree I feel the officer has no ple in my military in a service that protects serves and even dies to give and protect freedoms that this individual clearly does not support

Did anyone actually buy the crap that cop was selling? Sorry, but words like that don't just roll of your tongue if you've never used them. I live in WV and in a majority racially biased state, even I haven't heard those words for YEARS and YEARS...maybe back in the 60's. Words he used, I won't even repeat them, are words of someone who is definatley racist. The only thing I do believe that he said, was he didn't know those words would offend anyone....rofl....Maybe, just maybe that's because those words are used frequently, with the people he surrounds himself with? The only thing I think he's sorry of, is writing the letter, to assine to think the email would ever be released, esp to the National media!
One thing I find troubling is so much emphasis is put on race issues, which is a major problem. Opression of the poor and economic challenged individuals seem to go unnoticed.
Have a call come into a low income neighborhood. and if you want to see profiling! that's profileing at it's best! Soon as they receive the call,they (the county or state pd) already assume guilt, before they even arrive. I've seen it. I've watched it. And I've lived it.

but back to the cop. watch his eyes when larry ask him, if he'd used those words before? He blinks on the last word, as if (hmm wonder if anyone just bought that-or boy am i going to hell after that lie)!

if anyone believes tho' he's the only cop on the beat that has this attitude, man are they mistaken....and i don't care what state you live in. the problem is, it's like the 'blue code' cops have. as long as only 'we' talk like this, maybe no one else will know?

I am still in shock over hearing those words. As white as WV is, and much as I hate to admit it, still have a problem (kept in the dark among other racist friends) I have not heard those words (even from people i have to ask : please don't use that word (when using the N word) I haven't ever heard those words from those people.

I would like to see a conversation begun, bringing the problem of discrimination due to economic situations instead of pretending it doesn't exist, just like we've liked to think racism still doesn't exist.

My only puzzleing question is: Wonder how long it will take until another cop or citizen pulls something like this so they too can get a free trip to the White House and have beer with the pres.
Obama is beginning to look very unPresidental of late.

lARRY I AM REALLY DISCUSSED.

OFFICER JUSTINBARRETT REMARKS/

iF THE CALLING SOMEONE A bANANA EATING MONKEY AND TO GO BACK TO HIS ROOTS ISN'T RACIST. i APPEARED NUMB WHEN
i HEARD HIS REMARK. wE REALLY NEED TO GET PASS THIS
RACIST COMMENTING. His remarks was like a knife in the heart,

drjlhicks@yahoo.com
Dolores Hicks
San Jose, Ca.

Coulter did not directly or indirectly answer any of Larry's questions which was irritating and frustrating to me. Her answers were reactionary and redirected the intent of Larry's questions to more general and past issues on racisim. Rev. Sharpten was pulled into her redirected comments. No one had her give direct and specific answers to Larry's questions.

In my opinion Ms. Coulter is taking the racist thing personal, because is white I feel that she think she should stick up for the cop. No matter what people say when or while they are arguing. You can control what you say, and I believe the cop meant what he said mad or not doesn't and never will make it right. Also, Ms. Coulter is a prime example of picking out ignorant meaningless stuff, like Obama choosing to drink beer because the cop is Irish. I mean come on. Would she rather four guys sit around a table drinking wine. Then a whole lot of people would have their opinions on that one.

COPS NEED ATTITUDE ADJUSMENT. YES IT HAPPEND TO ME
WHILE IN BEV HILLS , HOLMSBY PARK CHECHING ME OUT
RACIAL PROFILING\.

I would like to know how many citzens have been sprayed in the face with mace because Mr. Barrett felt they were mouthing off. If you're out there let us know.

This guy just vocalized the thoughts of a large majority of the caucasion citizens in America. He is not remorseful at all for his comments and if his job was not on the line we would not have seen him on Larry King Live looking like a sick little puppy. F him and his faux apology. America will never change no matter how much we would all love to think so. This is not the first incident of such and will not be the last. Thank God Pres. Obama is in office but even still white America is not convinced that African Americans are capable. I cannot even get upset because this type of foul behavior has become the norm. Then there's Ann. OMG!!! That lady is outside of her mind.

The Boston cop needs to be fired period. No more to be said.

BOSTON , LOS ANGELES, BEVERLY HILL. PASSOUT THE WHITE SHEETS.

As for Officer Barrett, it's a bit too little too late for this apology. He is what he is, and therefore, he expressed his true feelings. People of his nature I respect because I know what he's about and what's in his heart. Here again is a reminder that RACISM is alive in this 21st century. I wonder if Barrett had been in Mr. Gates' shoes would he had wanted to be disrespected in his home because surely the officer could have at least realized that he was out of his domain and projected a manner of calmness when he realized this was Gates'
private domain. I agree, the officer acted stupidly and probably so because he has a badge and carries a gun. Barrett is simply trying to save his jobs.

I don't know what Mrs. thing is talking about their is no discrimination against minorities or racial profiling. I am a teacher in a large Metro area and I've even seen my brown Hispanics, Asian as well as Black students given low grades compared to the Caucasian and
white Hispanic. My darker minority students hate to leave my classroom because certain white teachers tell them "Youare going to be nothing and sleep under a bridge." So I started documenting it and falling my students on my planning periods. Sure enough it was being said, and the darker color minorities would get lower grades even though they missed the same amount of problems the white Hispanics or White students did. The same holds true in the Medical arena in this great so called country of our. The brown Hispanics and Black kids are always documented by Doctors as depressed, ADHD etc and thrown on psychotic Meds compared to the White students who are listed with a regular Medical problem. So we need to let folks no its in the Hospital staff as well. I Know my child had LUPUS and is gifted but a certain childrens hospital missed the diagnosis and wanted to claim she was not having any pain, just mental.

This is absolutely unbelievable. How on earth can Barrett mention in his scripted so-called apology that he acted without thinking. He mentioned the derogatory racist phrase of banana eating jungle monkey not once, but twice. Given the fact that this was an email, this gives one the opportunity to think twice about clicking that send button. This guy knew exactly what he was doing when he typed this hate filled email and knew the ramifications that would result from it. Barrett probably thought he'd get away with making these racist remarks. As for Coulter, who repulses me every time I see and hear her voice, is just another angry right wing, racist extremist along with Limbaugh, Beck, and others in this category who are scared out of their minds that whites are no longer the majority in this country. As frightening as this may be for you extremists, this is the reality that has reared its head and you'll just have to get used to it.

If the natives who are really the genuine Americans had spoken to Justin Barretts fore fathers to go to their roots, will he be on Larry King live displaying his distorted mind? Does he eat bananas at at all? If it was that easy why did he not attend Havard? As for Ann, she has dimentia coming up and does not even know it. Who in this age and time should be talking about race instead of how to move the country further? Justin apologised because it was legal tender in the mail. Acknowledge that the real war is in the hearts and souls of prejudiced Americans and people all over the world

OMG are you kidding me..... I am shocked that in 2009 we would hear a police officer say he is not a racist but the verbiage he was writing fell from the sky and he has never heard it before.....
It would be SCARY for me to think he would be or not protecting me!
I AM EMBARRASSED FOR HIM!!!
This person should have stayed home or is he ironing his white hood....
Thank God he does not work for the LA PD....

Larry,Justin Barret knows exactly why he chose the words"banana eating jungle monkey"to describe Professor Gates.Those words are absolutely racially motivated & now that officer Barrett's butt is on the line,he is sucking up to keep his job.How stupid do he& his high priced lawyer think the American public is,both black & white.He should be fired & never allowed to be a law enforcement officer again.He spoke the truth in how he felt & then tried to walk it way back & that speaks badly of his true character.He is unworthy to wear a badge of any kind.He also should be kicked out of the guard.He is disgusting & the worst kind of liar.

Kudos to the Boston Police Department and The National Guard for taking swift action in suspending Justin Barrett for his insensetive and less than intelligent comments regarding the Gates/Crowley affair. Whether or not the officer, the nation or the world recognizes the hurt that was initiated by the "banana-eating jungle monkey" comment, most blacks interpret the remarks to mean black man,/monkey eating a banana go back to Africa where you belong. This rage of the officer is so typical of inadequately educated and trained individual officers who when faced with issues that challenge their comfort zones, will always resort to their power position to show us people of color who is in charge. I am personally embarassed and disappointed at the media and most of the other commentators who want to dismiss this egregious comment and forgive the comment because the officer has apologized and "SAYS" he is sorry. When are we going to be able to call a Spade a Spade. This man has insulted an entire race of people with his comments and we are being asked to forgive him. Not a chance. America has become a place where anything is ok if one states he/she is sorry and remorseful. It is time to TELL The Truth and stop insulting the intelligence of people of color. It is almost as if we are afraid of offending the Boston Police Department. It seems to me, that the Department has recognized this officer for his true colors. When will the Media do the same?? Edward Hayes

The problem I have with Ann, is she is so worried about 'don't I look and sound cute when I say this" is there are some things I DO agree with her on. But it's hard to buy into anything anyone says, when they ALWAYS disagree! OK she's a conservative, but good Lord how can she sit there and not 100% agree with Sharpton, who also drives me insane at times, NOT say for once Al I have to agree with you! Those words were horrible. His answers were pitiful and no amount of apology should ever put him back on the streets again.
If she'd said that. She still would have driven me crazy, but at least I could respect her for her views. I have no respect for that lady now.
And to answer the question: Why did Larry have her on? hmm we all watched didn't we?

We live in the beautiful "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" people. We have to unite, come together and love one another. We must look like fools to the other countries, fighting amongst ourselves. We all come from the same God and we all have the same color blood. The reason for the different color of our skin is to protect us from the different climates, where we were suppose to be born. Instead, we all chose to be here, "THE BEAUTIFUL UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." Lets stand proud and show the world we are a loving caring country who cares for each and everyone in it.

Oh boy! This man is a racist to the bone. He is sorry because now the whole world knows the kind of person he is. He should be fired!

Can you imagine, calling for help and this man showing up?
What a disgrace! He is not worthy to hold the badge nor wear the uniform.

Ann Coulter Pretends racial profiling doesn't exist for the same reason that many,not all,conservatives do.They are the ones doing the profiling.Use history as your guide & you will see this clearly.

"Talk to the hand" Justin Barrett. Oh please!!!! You sounded like a fool. This was the first time you ever used that language. You must think people are stupid. I laughed my head off when I heard of this situation. You are not a racist......give me a break. Barrett is a perfect example that racisim still exsists in America, especially in the police force.

An educated, intelligent multi-racial gentelman, for at least the next four years is president of the United States of America. GET OVER IT!!!!!!
To the professor. If it was me or any member of my family in that situation, I would be livid.

As a retired Police Executive I know officers are trained to handle disputes and show restraint in the face of irate persons. Yes the job is dangerous and often the public is quick to judge an officers actions without the total knowledge of events as they occurred, however, are we the public and those who are public servants supposed to accept as an excuse that if an officer sworn to serve the public is offended by commentary that thier or another officers actions were misrepresented or at worst reported inaccurately that it is okay to use racial, disparaging remarks? If racial remarks had been made by a police officer about a jewish person the anti-defamation league would have labelled the person responsible as anti-semitic. The Boston Police Commissioner should not be called too strong of a disciplinarian for taking action, it was the officer himself who chose his words and created this situation. The public pays for and expects unbiased officers of the law.

Ann, Virginia you are awesome........Your comments are spot on and I completely agree with you......that he does not deserve to wear a badge!

Here is one for all of you Anne Coulter supporters who may also believe that there is not persistent racial profiling in the U.S. at all levels of law enforcement!

Federal Agent (Black) sits in a car outisde of a Federal Courthouse with two White Agents ( white female and a white male). They are waiting to assist in a protection detail.

An older (likely retired) court security officer (Black) arrives in the early hours and parks his car in a space just in front of where the three Federal Agents are parked. The Black court security officer is driving a very nice newer model S Class Mercedes Benz, to which a comment is made by the Black Agent on how nice the car looked.

Now most in the Federal law enforcement community know that many retired military officers, retired federal agents and other state and local officers are hired into these positions which provide security for Federal Courthouses and other Federal buildings because of their background.

But unfortunately not to the surprise of the Black Agent, the white female agent says "I wonder how he can afford that car, we should run the plates". Black Agent remained speechless. Very simple true story but maybe it can shed just a little more light on how so much has changed in the U.S. but yet so little considering this ocurred in Feb. of 2008.........................

Yes, Diane, playing with one's children is a great way to connect with them as a parent, showing them that their world is important to you builds closeness and trust. As the professional psych that you claim to be, that is basic, isn't it? I wonder how many children wish that their parents enter into their world more often.

Whatever Kai's agenda is in sharing this bit of info, I am happy to know that MJ left a loving, nurturing legacy for his children. It didn't really surprise me one bit that he is an awesome human being outside of the tabloids/media. His videos show him as a warm, sincere, sensitive, caring man.

I believe that we've lost one of the best (if not the best) in our generation.

Diane- Farrah F, Walter C were not haunted, framed, and destroyed by the media and society like MJ was. In spite of it all, he remained the beautiful soul that he is (and always will be). Could he have been pushed into drugs (and this is not to say that he was – I don't know) by judgmental, ignorant people (like you) who were jealous of his genius and success. You see, society has tunnel vision. MJ was different in many ways because he is far beyond the mediocrity of being nothing more than a pretty face and a privileged WASP. He was often misunderstood because he was above all the typical nonsense that people value. People destroy that which they do not understand, so they do not have to expand their world views and prove them shallow and ignorant.

MJ will be immortal for his music, his good heart, his genius, his compassion, and for making the world a MUCH BETTER PLACE for countless number of people. His spirit lives on forever.

And whether he was an addict or not...and assuming he was, he still was a much better person on drugs than those others mentioned without drugs. He cared about others. FF just cared about her own cure – HERSELF. Others were just good at what they did for a job. MJ shared his heart, his money and efforts, his lovely spirit with others. I will always respect MJ (drugs or no drugs) and I'm sad that we've lost a wonderful person so soon.

Poor choice of words? It bothers me that this person would have to use those choice words to describe Dr. Gates. The officer stated that he has never used those type of words to describe anyone ever before. He is using racist words and comments about someone that hasnt even personally come in contact with him. Ridiculous! He had thousands of words to choose from to speak with some intelligence. We all make mistakes, but being ignorant and passing it off as if you are totally misunderstood is crazy! Be somewhat of a "man" and be honest and straight forward. One more thing, I still try to figure out why some people are so extremely racist and have to speak so little of African Americans or any race.

I can't believe Barrett's comment-UNBELIEVABLE!! More and more, our country is becoming more divided. We should change our country's name to 'Divided States of America'!!

Larry, please raise the level of discourse in this nation; clearly the topic of race is still America's Pandora's box and it should be discussed. However, I think you should take the leadership and have an entire show dedicated to some meaningful conversation about race, and not wait for the next sensational headline to continue the dialogue.

And on another note, forget about the Michael Jackson story for awhile and do the American people a favor and discuss something meaningful such as health care reform and explain how it can contribute to turning the economy around. And if you choose to do so, please select a truly intelligent panel whose members' political agenda is the betterment of this great country and not their own self interest. Seems like a tall order but I am sure it can be done.

Jarret?? sad, two years of law enforcement has made him mentaly ill,Get him off the line befor he does some real harm. Jarret apoligised to all, Officers, friends, Nat. guards, == He forgot Gates. Jarret is dangerous.

Although I think this cop did make racist remarks and sounds like a racist from what he said.

I think President Obama and Professor Gate are BOTH RACIST TOO.

WHY don't they APOLOGIZE??? BECAUSE THEY ARE BLACK and they Still think AMERICA owns THEM an Apology.

GET OVER IT.

WOMEN are discriminated against far worse than men, especially Black women. They are not on the NATIONAL NEWS crying like a BABY.

I belive this guy meant every word that he wrote. You have to have these words in your heart already, you just don't put together those words and not know that they are racist .

Why couldn't the officer have simply indicated to Professor Gates that he was there because someone had called in thinking that there were possibly some prowlers at that address. Are you Ok? Then allow the professor to respond. He could have checked outside of the residence for any broken windows or doors. There were many things as an officer he should/could have done to make sure the house and Professor Gates were safe. A simple explanation as to why he was there. The Officer, it appears to me, felt he didn't need or owed Professor Gates an explanation. He was only interested in the professor doing what he requested and to "shout-up". A SIMPLE POWER PLAY.

The fact that the officer was requested to teach the class on race might hare been made in order that he would have to do research and become more informed himself. He very well could have been in need of this kind of training. It is fact that behavior can be modified when order is needed you allow the one causing the problem most often to take charge. Just may-be this might have been the reason for that assignment..

I cannot believe that those words were spoken by an officer...I guess those citizens in MA feel very secure knowing that their officers have racist tendencies...Whatever you say when your angry is what is in your heart... and the words that officer Barret used were very racially motivated...this should show everyone that no matter how many bandaids we slap on racism it does not help to heal the wound...some of us are ignorant to the fact that racism still exists...it does exist but now it is more reserved.

The email sent by Justin Barrett in a manner that he thought that he would remain anonymous is the true representation of the policeman that most black men have experienced. I did not get exactly what Sgt Crowley said when asked about what he thought about what Sgt Barrett has said, but it left me thinking that what I thought I heard was that Sgt Crowley thought that Barrett was over the top about this issue. I may have heard something that Sgt Crowley did not say and if so, I apologize to Sgt Crowley. However, Sgt Barrett should be fired. He is not fit for public service as a policemen. What he said is exactly what he meant and describes exactly what he thinks of black men.

With respect to the original issue of Sgt Crowley and Dr Gates, both men conducted themselves in an inappropriate manner. Dr Gates was wrong initially because cops don't usually just show up at your door asking you to come out of your house and show identification. So he should have done what the cop asked, thinking that there was a legitimate reason for the request . However, once Sgt Crowley knew that Dr Gates was in his home, he should have accepted that there was no illegal break-in and departed the residence, even though Dr Gates may have been being mentally abusive. When you work with the public you have to be able to withstand abusive language and focus on doing your job. I think that Sgt Crowley made a mistake in arresting Dr Gates. There was no crime. If Sgt Crowley had said to Dr Gates that he was sorry that he (Dr Gates) felt the way he did because he would think that he (Dr Gates) would be thankful that he was there to protect his home in response to a 911 call. That would have left Dr Gates knowing that he had overreacted. Instead, Sgt was insulted and had the power to put Dr Gates "in his place" and he exercised it. Shame!!! Anyone that works with the public have at their disposal was to "put people in their place" when they are insulted, but that only makes them mentally smaller that the person attacking. At his press conference, Sgt Crowley presented himself as an intelligent, logical and articulate individual that I am convinced is better than the person he portrayed that day and I think that he knows that he made a mistake. He may never say I am sorry or that he apologizes, but he will remember the circumstances thoughout his career as he does his job and teaches about race relation. The moment that he changed his tone about this whole thing was his "teachable moment." I am sorry his family was harassed. They had nothing to do with this and their harassment should be against the law.

If a white man is in his home and a cop shows up to arrest him without a warrant, you know this cop will be told in no uncertain terms to "get off my property". If he balks, the white man is likely to go grab his shotgun to protect his property. Professor Gates does not have the same rights in the eyes of the likes of Crowley, Ann or Elder.

I THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO SEE A SHARPTON V/S COULTER DEBATE? WHAT HAPPENED LARRY KING? GIVE THE MICHAEL JACKSON DIATRIBE A REST! WHAT IS IT? ARE YOU AFRAID OF A WOMEN FULL OF PULCRHITUDE AND A FRIGGEN BRAIN? WHAT A WASTE OF TIME.... AGAIN! YOU DEFINATELY HAVE A BIASED, AND ONE SIDED AUDIENCE EONOUGHT SAID! KEEP HITTING THEM W/ THE "FAST BALL"! THEY'LL NEVER GET YA! YOUR MY HERO, ANN COULTER!!

Out of the heart the mouth speaks. Everyone should really think about what they are going to say before you open your mouth. That officer should have thought about that before he responded to an article. For the sake of your sanity somethings you cannot listen to over and over again. Because you will become angry and will respond in away that you will regret later. Now Gates and the police officer had a couple of beers, are gone back to their homes and will tell their childen of the adventure. Hopfully they have both learned a valuable lesson. They both could have avoided this mess. I love the way Collen Powell explained it. Unfortunatly the police officer that responded to the article did not use wisdom and he really needs a heart reconditioning expecially working in law enforcement.

How is he going to face his black, hispanics, jewish or asian coworkers? How is he going to provide services for other ethnic groups with that type of hatred in his heart?

Whatever is in a man's heart will eventually come out.

I just finished reading all the comments about the show tonight. This was the first time I have seen Ann Coulter (as I refuse to watch Fox's "Fair and Balanced" stations.) Does she truly believe what she is saying on the air? She didn't answer one question! Also, why the fake eyelashes put on awkwardly? Yes, there is racial profiling in America and not just in the law enforcement field. It happens in housing, education, employment and all walks of life. I'm white and grew up next to a Native American reservation. Were the Indians profiled by the community? Definitely! People need to have a cordial discussion with people of different races, ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation so that they are not so afraid of someone they no nothing about.

Larry,

What I can't understand is how the Sgt. wrote in his report about the two Black men with Back packs, when the caller clearly on tape and confesses that she never said anything to that affect. So did the Sgt. Falsely add this on purpose or did he somehow mentally recall what someone advised him of inaccurately and if so whom might that be. Somewhere these two black males with back pack got into this mix when you find that out this maybe where the racial profiling exist.

That message was ruthless. It was pure racist and it was targeted to inflame people's rage toward an Harvard Professor who already been arrested, handcuffed, booked, finger printed, and photo taken. What would have happened if Gates was arrested by racist cop. Then it most likely would have ended up like a OJ trial. But this cop spread his hatred to other cops is what really takes the cake. This proves that something is wrong or why Harvard Professor feels racisim by cops look at what the cop said about him.

Does it scare anyone else but me, that if you disagree with anything going on in American politics you are fired. What is going on? Okay, I could understand a letter of reprimand but to be taken out of the National Guard. Is he now a terrorist for disagreeing out loud! t don't like how things are going and I am not a polical radical. Just an older woman who is disabled. And I a threat. I am not it since I am almost homebound.

On a different note, wasn't the disabled also killed by Hitler before the Jewish people. Because they were worthliess?

Point blank the idea of Police officers being the judge of characterizations of people is apalling. A police officer is a citizen of the country, and should have the utmost respect for the community he or she serves. They dont know what events transpired in someones life to bring apon a racial indignities as should the public be aware of the same of the officers in question no matter what field in law inforcement the officer may be. Police in my opinion believe that they are authority when they are not. They are only enforcers of the written law, and are bound by that law. The problem with the United states law enforcement is that That boundary has become obscured, and in most occasions the magistrate offices will side, and cover for the officer. Innocent until proven guilty for police, Guilty until proven innocent for the public is how it works now days.

I don't think that Ann or any other non-black can honorly give a true opinion concerning Racial Profiling. I employ any white person to walk in the shoes of a minority in this country for one day, and I gurantee that they will instantly feel the different. Until you experience the differencies that the black race experience on a daily basics, you cannot understand the raciasim that is very much alive and kicking in the United States today.

Keep this in mind in a year or so....this is just beginning of it all.

TO THE BOSTON COP IF THAT'S HOW HE WANTS TO BE ADDRESSED, I THINK HE IS AN EMBARRASSMENT TO THE DECENT POLICE OFFICERS. YOU KNOW YOU ARE A RACIST, WHY WOULD YOU USE THE RACIAL TERMS, YOU ARE NO MORE THAN A WHITE SKINHEAD IN A UNIFORM , AND I BET YOU HAVE MANY BROTHERS IN YOUR NEAT LITTLE DEPARTMENT. DONT WORRY, YOU WILL BE FORGIVEN AND YOU WANT LOSE A PENNY SO SAVE THAT FAKE APOLOGY AND STICK IT.

To say that the officer is not a racist is rediculious. How would he even come with them term: Banana Eating Jungle Monkey. It is time that we as a nation realize that we have a very serious racial problem in this country. I would by no means want to encounter this officer at any time. I would think that he saw me as the same Banana Eating Jungle Monkey, as he saw Dr. Gates. We are all aware that the men in blue stick together.

First off, Mr Barrett just lied to the entire nation and did a poor job of lying at that. Many who distrust law enforcement in this country clearly saw why tonight when Mr Barrett stated that no one should ever get in the face of a police officer. To me says it all about his attitude about the public service job he holds in the City of Boston. And this was jst an editorial he was responding to. Imagine if he were under real pressure in the field. His action in replying to the editorial was totally inappropriate and he shpould be relieved of his law enforcement duties immediately. The guy is a menace to society.

Do the semantics really matter? The truth is that most of America is under the impression "We are created equal!" We lived under that patriotic slogan during Slavery, Suffrage and other not so equal "real" American Ideology. If you think there is no racism against black people then you are just blind or denial. This isn't white vs black. This is a black plight and a minority plight in this country. I mean how hard have we actually worked at healing? When I hear white people say "Reverse Racism" I really want to just die. I am white and the truth is I have it better and have had it better than any minority "Group", women and even children in general. So quit with the denial. Your all living a dream that takes more work than debate.

For the love of all that is good and holy–please get Ann Coulter off the air. Her twisted, racist, non-rational, hysterical abstractions are degrading to the integrity of your show and legacy.

As for Barrett and Marano. That was a positively laughable appearance. Instead of having the courage and common decency to admit his letter was racist, ask forgiveness and outline what he is doing to heal himself of this cancer, he chose to insult our intelligence with his denials. For shame.

This is a one sided view of life. Does a black man see what happens to a white man? Example: I am parked in a car a black man approaches I reach up and lock the door. He continues down the road. Along comes a while man, he approaches my car I reach up and lock the door. Did the black man see this. NO! So I am racist in his eyes. Did the white man see this...NO! So I am a racist. No to either, I am a careful woman alone. BTW, if a teen or woman comes to close I lock the door. What I am is careful. Nothing more or less.

Larry, let me tell you about Justin Barrett, I have been married to a black man for 20 years and he is alway getting stopped by the police for reasons that are ridiculous. He has dropped our children off at the skate ring and tje police have stopped him saying our truck that is listed under my name a white woman as being stolen. When we first bought a Honda CRV off the lot he stopped at a bank to draw out money in an atm line and a cop followed him and went up to him in the line and asked to see his registration and ID. For no reason he was approached by the phoenix police because he was driving a new car and he was black. My husband is a good man never cries race ever, I DO because as a white woman married to a black man I understand what the black race goes through. My husband served in the gulf war and is a supervisor for a security company I am an Assistant Store Manager in a retail store. I would never accuse anyone of being racist but that cop you just had on is so typical of cops all over the country. He is racist as hell and that Anna chic you just had on needs to put on a black mask and suit and go into a store to see if she gets racially profiled. My husband always does and hes a good man don't talk it honey until you have lived it. Rest in peace MJ you are in a much better place trust me!!!!

Larry,

I am a 46 year old white male who is incredibly angry and completely embarassed by the comments of officer Barrett. He is insulting my (and everyone else's) intelligence when he tries to say he is not racist and/or that his comments were not racist in nature. His entire appearance on Larry King Live reminded me of Chevy Chase's "Land Shark" routine on the original Saturday Night Live. Everyone knows the Land Shark is at the door, Mr. Barrett. You have let all of America down in a huge way. I feel as though I need to appologize to every African American I pass on the street or come in contact with because of your comments. That there are still racist people such as yourself (and in positions such that you hold as a peace officer) is incredibly sad. I so very much want to say that we have made progress in race relations in this country. Then, ignorant jerks like yourself open your mouth and all that progress seems to go right down the drain. Stop trying to put on this snow job, stand up and admit to what your comments were (utterly racist), and appologize to every man, woman and child in this country for being such an idiot. That would be a good start.

As an aside: I don't know how Al Sharpton could control himself in his debate with Ann Coulter. He has my complete sympathy. Mz. Coulter's comments only go to show that she is as bad as Mr. Barrett. Why she keeps getting air time is beyond me.

All the best,
Scott T. Harder

Its seems to me that Officer Barrett really didn't think before making this comment though why put yourself in a situation like that when he wasn't even involved. I give him credit for his apology on national TV and it showed he was sincere. HE APOLOGIZED! OFFICER CROWLEY AND MR. GATES NEITHER HAVE APOLOGIZED SO WHO IS GREATER THE PERSON. OFF. OFFICER BARRETT SHOULD RESUME HIS DUTIES AFTER REVIEW AND CONFERENCE WITH HIS SUPERVISOR HE HAS HAD A GOOD POLICE RECORD. He has recognized his mistake and offered an apology which is more then what I can say for Crowley and Gates.They both should have handled the matter professionally. Observation Gates teaches on racial profiling and Crowley also at the academy and they handle the matter very poorly for be experts at the issues.

"Didn't think"? Lame excuse. It's my experience that people think about what they want to say and then they say it. Then to try to switch the issue to "who is the better person? (Barrett vs. Gates/Crowley)". Come on, Eddie..

I also find it very hard to believe that Mr. Barrett had never used those words before, also. When Larry asked him if he had, the man said "no". It seems to me that one who has never used those words before doesn't just suddenly conjure them up.

Mr. Barrett's lawyer-supervised "appology" looked to me to be only a vehicle for him to keep his job. Ohterwise, in my opinion, it most likely would not have been offered.

All the best,
Scott T. Harder

Paris, Prince & Blanket are the sweeetest kids alive IMO
God bless them & the Jackson family.

Larry I am watching your program in Dubai and thank heavens you have just finished your interview with Al, Ann and the police officer. It was becoming boring and as for the words of the police office I can offer an explanation for this. When Police Officers talk amongst each other in cars, the office and whilst going to jobs they use all sorts of language including a lot of swearing. When reading an article in the paper the officer resorted to using some of the language he wouuld use every day. He regrets it and has apologised and this should be the end of the situation apart from the enquiry that he will be exposed too by his employers. Language use in any situation can be interpreted incorrectly. In my home country we often call our own children little monkeys if they are climbing up a tree or somewhere else, and often parents tell children their room looks like a pig sty or something similiar maybe a mess. This is the natural langauge when one is angry or upset or because a child or person has not reacted and stopped their behaviour. If I use these words here in my present location great offence would be taken but for me I would consider that I was not being offensive but using words that are common to me. So one has to be very careful at all times especially when people are going to jump to conclusions and infer that other meanings were meant.

When will black people and the likes of Rev Al Sharpton let racial issues go. There will always be people of all color who make racial or derogatory remarks about each other, the only people who ever make an issue of it are black people!

Gates showed Crowley proof that he lived at the address in question, yet he was arrested. Even if Gates called Crowley a 'racist', the officer should have kept his cool. I though police officers were trained to keep their cool, take charge of the situation and react sensibly. As for Barrett , in my opinion, he should be sacked.

There is no jumping to conclusions. What is obvious is obvious. He referred to him as a "Banana-Eating jungle Monkey". He would not have used those words hd he been referring ta white person. Stop trying to explain a way out of this ! A mistake was made....admit it .

Dear Larry, I have been watching your programme today. I live in SA and too often a black man will plead racism when he doesn't get his own way. Also, policemen are in the frontline all the time and sure, they will lose it when they are confronted with a beligerent opponent. What the policeman said was not acceptable and maybe he needs to have time off the frontline. They all do at some stage. But I feel that a highly educated man at a university would be grateful if the police arrived to make sure their home was not about to be invaded. I know I would. They are equally at fault here and I do think that too much is being made of the whole issue. For the President of the United States to get involved diminishes the President's high esteem that the electorate holds for him as the elected Commander in Chief. It has just told me that Barak Obama is not above the issues of race that he personally carries with him and is not ready for the position he holds as Commander in Chief. I, for one , am disappointed that Barak Obama has displayed to the world that he is African American first and President second. Until now, I did not see his colour.

TO SCOTT T. HARDER;

I salute you for being so neutral and unbiased on this issue regarding this Barrett.

I mean I have never seen such a ridiculous situation whereby someone made such crude racist remarks and having the nerve to step forward on national television and try to apologise for the words he used. Why in the first place did this Barrett bother to go on TV and try to apologise when at the same time he is pointing out that he is not a racist by saying those words about Gates!!!???

Both Barrett and his lawyer have ridiculed themselves infront of everyone, I just couldn't look at how stupid and lost they looked there infront of the cameras.

OFCOURSE THIS BARRETT IS TRYING TO APOLOGISE JUST BECAUSE HE IS TRYING TO WIN HIS JOB BACK.....WHO HONESTLY BELIEVES THIS IS A VALID APOLOGY ANYWAY!!!???...

Ok, this guy should have never said this remark in his emails or whatever. We all now this, however why is he getting such a lashing when we have a noted professor who used racist content at his own home still with a job? Why arent we also condeming this man for his actions, because in this country it is ok for you to put down a white person. It's not ok to put down others outside this race. Here is where we have a racial problem today. It should not be ok to use content that will be racialy offensive to anyone.
If Mr. Barrett was to talk in this manner he should have used it with his own circles so that no one else would be aware because I would be upset if he used it on me. I will give Mr. Barrett one very small comment in the positive:
He is right that Mr. Gates is jumping around acting like a fool over this incident at his home when he himself caused the actions taken on police. But I guess its ok when you are in circles with other idiots like Mr. Sharpton.

this officers unprofessional statements show stupidy in his behavior

I agree with some posts saying that blacks are the only minority that make SUCH AN ISSUE over remarks that are racial or biased!! If everyone made an issue over words said about them because of their gender or color or wearing flowers in their hair, for Pete's sake, everyone would be court every day!

It's totally ridiculous for the President to entertain this issue as if it were real news important to everyone out of work and struggling to make ends meet even when working 60 hours a week!

As to race, I never EVER thought of color when dealing with people or viewing people UNTIL the debacle of O.J. Simpson went down. I couldn't believe how he went free and then I paid attention to the news and remarks from those complaining about race constantly. Now I'm sick of it and highly aggravated by it.

Cut it out, please!! If the world weren't so connected with communication, the Internet, TV, instant news and blips and clips from the media all the time – we would all get along better, IMHO.

it is obvious from Mr. Barrette's remarks that he is both a racist and stupidly ignorant. The only reason he is apologizing is to save his job.

I would suggest that Mr. Barrette (while on suspension) should take some time to educate himself on the origins of man. He will realize that all humans (regardless of ethnicity or race) originated in Africa from Mitochondrial Eve about 170,000 years ago. This has been proven by scientists.

So when he refers to an African American as a "banana eating jungle monkey" he is also degrading himself. Officers with this kind of bigoted attitude can never effectively protect and server their community they way they should.

As for Ms. Coulter she appears as just another big mouthed dumb blond who lives in another world and refuses to believe that while race relations in America has improved there is still much work to be done!

With all of the concerns, about Barrett's being a liability to the armed forces and the police force he was serving. I believe he will go back to duty and continue to protect and serve because, our society is too tolerant for some and has shown that some groups are afforded second chances and others are not..

Regarding the comments made by Linda, I'm not sure what blinders she's wearing but there is a serious race issue in America whether she thinks it to be important or not. This has been an issue in the past and continues to be an issue and for Linda to say It's ridiculous is very sad. This is the crazy world we live in and ignoring it will not make it not exist. Once again, if WE take to time to follow the footsteps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the world would truly be a better place. Unfortunately, all we do is look to try and make each other look bad which is very shameful. Pick up the Bible and read. We can change ourselves and perhaps others if we pray for them.

Brenda: I did not say to ignore racial issues, I said for people to ignore the ignorant remarks of others towards them. When our kids are called something in school, we taught them to feel sorry for THEM and ignore it, realizing they're the sad ones that need Jesus.

I'm not blind to racial issues in this country and if you read what I actually said, I said there is a LOT of racism towards anyone and anything.

What I said is that it's ridiculous for people to make this a big news frenzy, when there are so many issues facing Americans today. Everyone gets on this bandwagon over and over.

You think racial issues were not serious in the past? They have and always will be. It's ingrained in people's minds. As in South Pacific, the line is "You have to be carefully taught." Children aren't born with bias. Instead of bashing those who use unkind and thoughtless words towards others, we need to attack the root of it all, parents and kids and change minds.

I don't agree with the Sargeant's words and I'm sorry he was taught something so unkind that he felt the need to spew it forth. But Gates didn't let it go. He didn't just cry foul about the arrest, he made it a race issue that the news media could focus on.

The President shouldn't have publicly said anything about an action being stupid, regardless of what the action was. But it's still just words and for people to ask him to say he's sorry and seek forgiveness IS ridiculous.

I was appalled at the comments made regarding "jungle monkey". While Mr. Barrett apololgized to the police force and American public, not once did he personally apologize to Mr. Gates, to whom the comments were directed. This man does not have a mental filter and to bring up comments like those in the heat of the moment, suggests that these thoughts are very close to the surface. How he can say he is not a racist, is beyond comprehension! Whatever repercussions he receives, will not be enough. He should have paused to think about his intent vs impact. Once the words are said, they can never be taken back. I would not want to be a person of difference and meet him in a dark alley.

Americans need to get over themselves! As a women I know that we are all equal in the eyes of God so why be insecure and let ignorant people take that away? It's not what white man thinks of black man or what man thinks of women and vise versa, it's what God thinks! If you treat people with respect while IMPROVING YOURSELF you won't have time to judge others or worry about what other people think! We aren't here to please everyone, we are here to grow physically, mentally and emotionally to perfect ourselves for God! Some just take longer than others, so no matter if you are rich, poor or indifferent we are all here for the same reasons!

I am appalled by what Justin Barrett of the Boston Police Department wrote in an E-Mail about the Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. I can’t see how Mr. Barrett can actually do his job as a Police Officer. I can’t even refer to him as an officer. An officer who makes this type of comments via verbal, written, or through and E-Mail, shows that he has no place on any type of Law Enforcement. His credibility is now in question. Who can trust Mr. Barrett? He should have looked over the oath of office the accepted; he is to protect all, even those who are weak or mistreated because of their backgrounds no matter how different it may be. This is something that should have been discovered during his background investigation to become a member of Law Enforcement. I am sure there were signals or flags while he was attending the Police Academy. The best thing to do now that the damage has been done and the community he works in will not ever be able to see him as a credible person anymore, he should be terminated. This is going to be hard on him but this is a no brainer type decision his department, the city, and his superiors must make.

Justin Barrett looks scared and looked like he was sweating last night. He is petrified because his lack of character has been exposed and he knows his fellow officers now know who he really is. I loved Mayor Menino's response "Gone ~ G-O-N-E" as well as Commissioner Davis's response, I'm proud of them. He didn't even have the wisdom to apologize to Professor Gates, what planet does he live on? Why doesn't someone drop him off in Mattapan around 11pm some night, out of uniform. Lets see how brave he'll be then!

In reading these posts it amazes me how alot of you people are willing to damn this man and his entire life to hell. But is okay for you to make hateful comments about him, his job, his color. As for the words he chose to use, give me a break, do you really think he made them up. I have heard phrases worse than that about every race and religion from joke books and comic sketches using stereotyping for a laugh I just choose not use them.. All of you holier-than-thou people should really think the next time you refer to a dumb blonde, a pasta eating Italian, Irish drink, cheap Jew, etc. Sterotyping exists from truths, it's just the context that gets out of hand, in my opinion. People are not perfect. All we can hope is that we learn from our mistakes and show some compassion towards each other, that goes for all races. We don't have to love everyone but we should try to be a little more accepting of the differences that make us who we are. Give Mr. Barrett a break. I wish some of you people would stand up to drink drivers, maybe they wouldn't get 3,4,5 chances to prove themselves and only risk losing s liscense!
As far as how he looked and how his apology sounded, I challenge you to go on national television and admit to the world that you make a mistake. It's a start, let's not blow things out of proportion. Don't let yesterdays clouds cover todays sunshine. Thanks for reading, I hope I inspired some good.

This is to Gary in Canda no one call the cope stupid the president said it was stupid what the police dept did he did not call the officer by name he said the police dept get your facts straight

The police officer and his statements are a good indicator about what is really going on in the Boston police department!

I believe that President Obama should have withdrawn his invitation to visit the White House to the police officer? Why? Because the officer has been proved to be a LIAR. He filed a FALSE POLICE REPORT claiming that the witness stated that there were two black men trying to break in a house. The audio tape proved this was not the case. He wrote that statement so that he would have probable cause to get in the house – nothing more!

I want to know why no one is making a big deal out of the false police report that Officers Crowley filed? He should be fired for lying. He is no model citizen in my opinion.

I do not believe that officer Jarret is remorseful in the least. I believe him to be a racist by his own words and nothing he can say will convince me otherwise. The term "monkey" has been shown to be used by racists to refer to African Americans for years. This officer was well aware of what he was doing and should be fired.

His only regret was being caught!

If a black guy said what Barrett said, it would not have been such a big deal. it wouldnt have been a NATIONWIDE NEWSFLASH!! Counter-racism is still a form of racism.

"Not intending to spew racial discord" If this wasn't real it would be funny. If ever I'm in Boston, I'll be sure to stay out of this fella's way! Sadly enough, you'll find people with this mentality everywhere.

Are you KIDDING ME???? Can anyone hear what is gong on? Oh My God what happened to the phrase, "those who live in glass houses"?
Did Mr Barrett make a huge mistake with words, You Betcha!
Should his entire life be destroyed? I don't think so. My God, even murderers don't get punished this severly OR QUICKLY.
Does anyone even think of his family?
Do you REALIZE he had a part in YOUR freedom? Yeah, he served for a year in the war. OH LETS NOT LET OUR MILITARY MEN MAKE A MISTAKE OR APOLIGIZE. We as AMERICANS, not African Americans, or Italian Americans, or Spanish Americans, just AMERICANS SHOULD REALLY THINK ABUOT WHAT WE ARE DOING TO THIS MAN AND HIS LIFE!!!!
SHAME ON ALL OF YOU!

Barrett cannot hold a candle to Crawley....we like Crawlwy, straightforward...but he & Gates both made mistakes..& who is perfect ?

In light of the recent controversy, this Officer's comment didn't help any, he went and threw a match into the gasoline !

Let me tell you folks, Racism is still alive and will never die !!

Barrett, You and your atty can try and spin it anyway you want...you made a poor choice of words or whatever. Spin away. NO ONE is buying. You can roll a turd in powdered sugar, but it still ain't a jelly donut.

The words officer Barrett use in his e-mail are shocking. I have heard people say racist things before but this is lower than anything I can imagine. Watching him sit there with his attorney, he reminded me of a deer caught in the headlights. I suspect that racist commentary is not unusual in our police stations particulary when they feel under attack. Some react to critizism stupidly and others intelligently. This officer expressed his feelings in a stupid way and he clearly had problems dealing with racial confrontations. I saw a man who appeared to have felt safe uttering such comments when he thought he was in a crowd of those he believed agreed with him but when he found himself out in front of the crowd, exposed, it scared him to death. I don't excuse his comments but feel he should be placed in some sorf of rehabilitative program where he can have a serious close up look of his feelings and how they are out of place in this world. I am not a hunter and if I had seen this deer in my headlights, I would have swerved to avoid hitting him. Does he deserve a second chance? I don't know. He clearly needs help.

This entire story is making me sick. The police officer who entered this man's home and saw his ID should have let it go. The guy owned the home. Secondly, the professor should not be screaming racism due to this. I am totally sick that every time something transpires between a black and white individual, racism is screamed. And to involve the President?? What are our taxpayer dollars doing??
The President should not have been involved in this. He has more important things to do, such as run the country and keep us safe from terrorists. To the caucasian officer: What were you thinking?? You should know by now that anything negative that transpires between yourself and an African- American individual will be labeled as "racist".

The comment by sittingbackabsorbing is far from the truth. Anything negative that transpires between a caucasian and african-american is not always labeled as racist. The statement the officer said was a racist statement there's no ifs, buts or ands about it. Excuses can be made all day long but the facts won't change. If people think before they speak then they won't have to apologize for something they claimed they didn't mean to say. The tongue is the most unruly part of the body. You can't take back something once you say it.

Folks, words are just words. You can choose to ignore them, you can choose to fight over them, you can choose to speak what comes into your head, you can hold your tongue, you can learn more words in the English language...BUT...it's between the individuals involved, and they should be the ones to work it out.

Women are called the B word and cringe, little people are called midgets and get mad, southerners are called rednecks and get hot under the collar, and it goes on and on and on...

Think about it...

As a retired female Philadelphia police officer of color I must say, the Boston officer disgraced his department, the United States armed service,the good people of Boston , his name and family.
Police officers are not Gods or Lords of the universe. Police officers are law enforcement officers, public servants, public relation officers and to be involve within the community he/she serves.
Give respect and get respect. A few years ago sadly an officer was shot in the street and the neigbhors came running to his aid . The officer was able to give his wife his final words of love and he was not alone at the end.
Police Officers are to "protect and serve"

I think the whole gates affair is stupid. Officer Crowley was doing his job and after he trusted it was gates house he went back to the car.Then gates acted how about 1/20 of blacks do he assumed it was racism. when the police have to respond to a 911 call. Then obama has 2 stand up for the poor black man because of his own stupidy. Then invites them 2 a beer how aqward is that having beer with the president and someone who accused you of racism.And now little gates is on thelawyers.com commercails.ALL GATES FAULT black orwhite hesan idiot

Public Relations is all about pleasing the common people.,*-

you should always maintain good public relations specially if you operate a business–"