Denver cop arrested in teen's beating
By Jeff Kass, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Published May 8, 2008 at 4:50 p.m.
Charles Porter, 40, was suspended without pay.
A Denver police officer was arrested Thursday for investigation of second-degree assault, a felony, in the beating of a teen last month, according to law enforcement officials.
Charles Porter, 40, has been on the force 12 years and was assigned to the gang bureau, according to Denver police. He could not be reached for comment.
The incident involved the beating of a 16-year-old who was running away from officers during an arrest, according to 9News. Police would not confirm the details of what happened but say the incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. April 18 in the area of West 37th Avenue and Pecos Street.
The teen suffered broken ribs and a lacerated liver after Porter allegedly jumped and stomped on him, according to 9News. Friends of the teen told the station he is out of the hospital and doing better.
Porter had been on administrative leave and receiving a salary, but Thursday he was suspended without pay, according to police.
The district attorney will decide by next week whether to file charges. A felony record would disqualify someone from joining the force, said police spokesman Lt. Ronald Saunier.
Porter is free on $5,000 bail. His second advisement is scheduled for May 23, according to a court record.
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May 8, 2008
9:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
MattGuyver_007 writes:
Cops in every other country treat their citizens with more respect than what I continue to witness across America. Why does it seem our police force is so contentious?
May 8, 2008
10:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
happymike44 writes:
Because most of these guys can't even read a insurance document or a registration.they are mostly former marines who think the average citizen is just a piece of tax paying scum.Got pulled over and I kid you not the officer said: okay scumbag get out of the car.By the way the person who was speeding was the officer.He also shoved a gun in my face and screamed don't move a$$hole.Such a nice boy his mother must be so proud of him and that mouth.I grew up in a military family and was just shocked at the other things yelled at me as well.Went to court and this guys partner did not sign the ticket and it was dismissed.But he kept whining that they followed the law.But this guy refused to answer any question I put to him.Case dismissed and he was warned to stay away from us.
May 8, 2008
11:52 p.m.
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dano writes:
He looks like Al Bundy. An officer, which will remain invisible, said he's guitly as can be. What a piece of garbage this guy is.
May 8, 2008
11:52 p.m.
Suggest removal
nonayerbsns writes:
While I agree this statement is true:
"Cops in every other country treat their citizens with more respect than what I continue to witness across America. Why does it seem our police force is so contentious?"
I find THIS is also true: Citizens in every other country (where I have lived and/or worked) treat each other with more respect than what I continue to witness across America.
Yes, the cops here are a wee bit out of control, but so is the citizenry.
May 9, 2008
6:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
nicolec writes:
The amount of power the cops get directly correlates with the degree of abuse that occurs under that power. Cops in other countries (though not all) are given a lot less leeway (in Britain, most don't even carry guns).
I don't think ours are the worst. Everyone jokes that the cops in Mexico are the worst criminals!
Clearly not all cops in any country are bad, but I do think we'd attract fewer of the power hungry a-holes if we held them more accountable.
May 9, 2008
6:59 a.m.
Suggest removal
MarineGrunt writes:
Posted by MattGuyver_007 on May 8, 2008 at 9:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Cops in every other country treat their citizens with more respect than what I continue to witness across America. Why does it seem our police force is so contentious?"
Don't get out much do you? In Singapore, if you say ANYTHING against the Gov. You get a free ride to jail for a few weeks. And Singapore is a lot nicer then 99% of them out there.
I take it, Matt, you are able to provide sources for your data. Ones that are impartial? Or, are you just talking out your ass because you have been in trouble over time and just have hate for anyone who doesn't allow you to do as you please?
May 9, 2008
7:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
MarineGrunt writes:
"deffinately voted republican"
Really? You HAD to throw that in there? Weak...
So, any story about drug dealing, baby killing, rape and the such, we can call the person a Pinko Commie Democrap?
Come on Froward. I expect a lot more from you!
May 9, 2008
7:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
vudumom writes:
Cops are on the whole good people and good at there jobs.You will always have a few bad apples. Painting all cops bad because of these few bad apples is a disservice. That would be saying all Democrats are bad. We know that's not true. There are alot of Democrats that do a good job, right?
May 9, 2008
7:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
airbornebigfoot writes:
I hope justice is served in this case.
The Denver Police Force is out of control, as are most
police agencies in America.
Anyone watch the video out of Philadelphia??
Pretty awful when the police are just as bad or worse than the criminal element we pay them to protect us from.
May 9, 2008
8 a.m.
Suggest removal
MaxInEnglewood writes:
He will probably get off.
May 9, 2008
8:06 a.m.
Suggest removal
MarineGrunt writes:
"HEY MarineGrunt!
"if you say ANYTHING against the Gov. You get a free ride to jail"
The same exact thing will happen to any United States citizen except in America you get sent to a secret prison without a lawyer and nobody knows where you've been taken. At least in Singapore they tell your family that you have been arrested! United States treats its people exactly as Hitler did: i.e. Secret prisons, no lawyer, detained for years without being charged, and no family notification. You are one brainwashed nitwit MarineGrunt!"
Since you seem to be so tied in, please provide evidence of your idea's. George Bush is NOT the best President and Congress is run by IDIOTS!! Nope, no Jack Boots at my door!
If you say Gitmo... your dumber then a box of rocks. I have been to Gitmo and those "people" live better then those below the poverty line do in our own Country! 3 meals and the guards are forced to bow to their religious beliefs! It would seem, you only get your info from the MSM and leftest readings. Are you even capable of independent thought and research? BTW.. did you read the article where the prisoner released from Gitmo attempted to blow up some of our Soldiers?
Nitwit? I will take that moniker over 'bi-polar, crazy and stupid' any day!
Please remove your tin foil hat and retract you request for the Denver City Council to set up a Alien Welcoming Committee. (And take your med's!!!)
BTW, Singapore Authorities do not have to tell ANYONE you have been arrested.
May 9, 2008
8:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
Adeline writes:
I would like to know the status of random drug testing in the Denver Police Department. Does it take place? And do they test for steroids? Has anybody checked Porter's steroid level?
May 9, 2008
8:14 a.m.
Suggest removal
MarineGrunt writes:
Again, please provide any kind of evidence to back up your claim, Froward.
I HATE both parties and call a Spade a Spade. But your use of Political antic's IS weak! Using your "math"... I could say the man beat was an Illegal Alien, because of his last name? I wouldn't, but it seems your more then willing to stamp labels to make yourself feel better. "He beat someone up.. so he is Republican!, Blah blah blah.." Think... then type.
As for this statement "YOU DO by association! before the race of the offender comes out immediately the offender is labeled an "illegal Mexican" and allowed here by Democrats. and that the crime wouldn't have happened if republicans were in complete and total charge."... it make very little since. Where did I call him Illegal? Where did I say if the repub's were in charge this would have never gone down? Why do you make stuff up to help your argument? More coffee, Froward... more coffee!
May 9, 2008
8:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
sportsmom writes:
The Denver Police Department is out of control. I have personally witnessed 3 different cases of police brutality. I am currently a witness in a IA investigation on one of them. But nothing is going to happen. The boys in blue stick together IA or not. Gerry Whitman needs to resign and let someone with some stature step up and clean this department up. It is ridiculous already! I hope this CHILD, because he is only 16, sues and wins against the DPD. And he was probably running because he knew that if they made contact with him he was getting an "alley run"!
May 9, 2008
8:33 a.m.
Suggest removal
Golden writes:
Posted by MattGuyver_007 on May 8, 2008 at 9:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Cops in every other country treat their citizens with more respect than what I continue to witness across America. Why does it seem our police force is so contentious?
Really - I"ve been around the world quite extensively. Seems to me in other countries, with the noticable exceptions of South American countries, kids that run from the poclie are given a pretty sound beating by the cops. The cops are then asked if they are OK. They aren't arrested.
The reason it is contentions is becasue we have had 20 years of Jessies Jackosn and Al Sharpton telling us our police force is mean. Disrepect for Police Officers is a hallmark of a criminal society and persepctive and law abiding citizens should not tolerate it in any manner.
I have no issue with cops giving a beating to people who flee from them on foot or in an auto.
One whack with a billy club, for each officer for every 30 seconds of the chase. That ought to stop the criminals from running.
May 9, 2008
8:59 a.m.
Suggest removal
jtriska writes:
Right on officer. Props to you. With all these little out of control gang banger wannabee's running around making life intolerable with their shootings and graffiti. Let's get him back on the payroll A.S.A.P. and kick some more ass. These punks need it.
May 9, 2008
9:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
Lewlew writes:
It was the Denver Police that led the way to dispose of the residency requirement to work for the City & County of Denver. That was because the majority of them wanted to move outside Denver because they supposedly feared to live in the city with the people they abuse everyday fearing repercussion from Denver citizens they had had contact with. So now we have cops that mostly live outside of Denver, being paid with our taxes to abuse the citizens of Denver, while badmouthing Denver. I say bring back the residency requirement and make their asses live in Denver alongside those they abuse. Residency requirement needs to be put back on the ballot.
May 9, 2008
9:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
MaxInEnglewood writes:
Right on Lewlew!
May 9, 2008
9:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
breckrider writes:
hey at least he didn't shoot him while he was laying in bed drinking a coke, denver cops get away with murder on a consistent basis, so it will be no suprise when this pos cop is back on the beat. anybody want to see the dpd in full action come to red rocks and watch how the cops treat concert goers.
May 9, 2008
9:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
MattGuyver_007 writes:
Perhaps 'every other country' was too much of a generalization. It's not necessary to get into a 'who travels more' argument but it's funny to read things like 'don't get out much' as I prepare to step aboard my third international flight this week. One more thing- I've never been arrested.
In any case, while I have the utmost respect for our police force and understand they face life and death situations every day, I think they do a lousy job, overall, of diffusing situations. Instead, they often provoke suspects and instigate further disruption.
A cop's job when apprehending a suspect is to swiftly and safely restrain them, not beat the hell out of them. Undoubtedly there are times when force is necessary but once a suspect is handcuffed or otherwise controlled there is no need to continue beating them. It's the courts job to convict and the DOC's job to punish.
It's a good thing to have criminals fear the police but when law abiding citizens begin to fear them I think we are on the wrong track.
May 9, 2008
9:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
RickyLee writes:
He should get agricultural tresspassing.
May 9, 2008
10:19 a.m.
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johnnybgood91 writes:
no one should have to take beating like this or even think that this will happen to them.to all of those who think that this is ok,you will change your mind as soon as something like this happens to you or someone you know.this officer and others like him should be taken off the force and not just put on leave or be temp. suspended.
May 9, 2008
10:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
Kslayer writes:
Have you ever took a real hard look at cops and military personel? I have. six years in the military and I realized that most of the guys there were nobodys in high school, and this was there way to power and controll. Same with cops, or any other job with a ranking structure. I do however have much respect and am thankful for the job our military and police do for the most part. It's a tough job. I just think there are those that abuse the power they are given.
I don't feel sorry for the little punk that got the beat down. He probably deserved it. Why would a 16 yr old be running from the police? If he were at home where he shold be, or doing something constructive like sports then he probably wouldn't find himself with some broken ribs.
May 9, 2008
11:08 a.m.
Suggest removal
Buckwheat writes:
This is nothing, wait till this kids parents Lawyer up. Just be thankful it wasn't a brother that got jacked up. Al Sharpton and his Pose' would be marching tomorrow.
May 9, 2008
11:32 a.m.
Suggest removal
soco writes:
This kid is an upstanding kid at the wrong place at the wrong time...He did grow up in the area and has had a rough life, but is great kid, He golfs (Shoots in the 80's), Does things for his community, gets good grades and is an overall good kid...He was running for fear of the Denver Police of what they are capable of...Rather than you guys making your racial comments about Mexicans, get some facts before you make your generalized comments about a particular race...No where in the report does it say anything about him having a weapon or drugs or him being in gangs, but you racial citizens want to place judgement right away..grow up and educate yourself! Place judgement upon yourself, cause there is only one judge in life and its not you....
May 9, 2008
11:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
Diff writes:
I tell you there is a SERIOUS, ystemic, wide spread problem within the Denver Police Department.
Hick needs to clean house - from the Manager of Public Safety to the Chief and as far down the ladder as he can go.. Bring in people from out side of Denver - or out side of Colorado and rebuild the DPD...
It is long LONG over due!
May 9, 2008
11:58 a.m.
Suggest removal
JMac writes:
He should be locked in an 8 x 10 with this upstanding citizen. Then we can see who leaves the cell with broken ribs and a lacerated liver, hopefully worse, for this inbreed member of Denver's biggest gang wearing blue(the DPD).
https://exdoc.state.co.us/inmate_loca...
May 9, 2008
12:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
RickyLee writes:
Spot on, soco.
My "ag. tresspass" comment was along the lines of that's how
much of a slap on the wrist(IF ANY AT ALL) the cop will get.
Anyone remember the name Ismael Mena? Frank Lobato?
I'm quite sure our worthless governor remembers those names,
like notches on his gun. Those innocent people are DEAD.
This kid should feel lucky he only got broken ribs and a lacerated liver.
May 9, 2008
12:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
soco writes:
These cops very well could of tased him, shot him with their bean bag guns, pepper spray..Lots of different things to try and contain him if he was truly a threat. These cops get their jollys off of beating up on young kids. After all is said and done, he should have a day to thank the Denver citizens for paying for his settlement and supporting these type of officers..Remember, its your tax money that pays for these cops and your tax money that will be paying for the lawsuit that will be paid out. Continue defending these type of actions, its coming out of your pocket
May 9, 2008
12:19 p.m.
Suggest removal
OhBrother writes:
So to uphold the law it's ok to break it? I don't know about this case but there are plenty of fine examples of police using force when not needed. I agree 100% that you shouldn't run from the police or you risk somthing like this ( or worse ) happening, but that also shouldn't mean it's perfectly fine becuase just when is enough enough?
This kid is lucky, he could have been shot 50 times in the back over this. it happens.
Golden- maybe ol Al and Jesse telling people the cops are "mean" has somthing to do with...let's say, water hoses and attack dogs being used on everyday citizens. I know I know, I'm just using the "race card" becuase those people deserved it with all that standing up for them selvs... probaly just criminals in your eyes. In other words maybe pepole like AL and Jesse wouldn't be around in the first place if all cops were honest and didn't have a bias aginst any race or religion. That, however, has been proven countless times is not the case
May 9, 2008
12:44 p.m.
Suggest removal
mytwosense writes:
I can't conceive of doing this to anyone unless in extreme self-defense, but especially to a young person. Imagine how this will forever change this young man's perspective of anyone who wears a uniform, or worse, his perspective on humanity altogether.
Too bad, because by and large, most cops are good people who work one of the hardest jobs imaginable. Unfortunately, while the bad apples may be few, some of their acts are so monstrous they really do taint the entire profession.
This particular cop shouldn't just be sued, he should be criminally prosecuted.
May 9, 2008
12:45 p.m.
Suggest removal
mytwosense writes:
I said: "This particular cop shouldn't just be sued, he should be criminally prosecuted."
oops, this is happening. my bad...
May 9, 2008
1:09 p.m.
Suggest removal
Diff writes:
While they are at it -cleaning house to clean up the DPD, The City of Denver needs to take a look at the DA's office as well. After all they keep giving the Denver cops the pass on this kind of stuff. (and just think of all the stuff we do not here about in the press)
Had this cop simply shot the kid, nothing would have came of it I am sure. Dead men don't tell there side of the story...
OR are the DENVER DA's afraid of getting stopped by a DPD member if they ever do decide to charge a cop?
THE DPD NEEDS a SEROUS OVER HAUL people!
May 9, 2008
1:39 p.m.
Suggest removal
Lewlew writes:
Buckwheat, obviously you have a problem with people of color or else you wouldn't have made such a derrogatory comment and call yourself "Buckwheat" a name created by a white writer to make black people seem ignorant. Or maybe you really are ignorant and you think it's okay to say anything you want.
Your confused and socially ignorant if you think Al Sharpton and his "posse" (which you apparently can't spell correctly) are the only people who look out for racial injustice. A "brother" has the right to be treated like any other person on this planet. Save your racist comments for when your alongside a group of "brothers" and their "posse" and see how far your get.
May 9, 2008
2:26 p.m.
Suggest removal
ThomasMc writes:
And yet the cops wonder why so few people cry when they are killed.
May 9, 2008
2:57 p.m.
Suggest removal
equality writes:
I am so sick of everyone defending these gang banger thugs and disrespecting our police who protect us good citizens from crime!!! The kid was drunk and was arrested for having drugs on him. The officer DID do wrong and should be FIRED; he crossed the line. But lets not forget who turned the "bad apple" in; the two OTHER OFFICERS who witnessed the beating. Check all your facts before you judge a whole group of people (the police) That would be like me saying all hispanics should be arrested because they all sell drugs like that kid. Where are his parents, that is who we should also be holding responsible!!! Throw them in jail for not raising a law abiding kid who doesn't drink or sell drugs and run from the police! I am a proud Denver citizen and I have never had a problem with the DPD, I watch all these thugs and drug dealers on a daily basis infest our city and I hope the police keep up their good work in trying to clean up this city!!!
And ThomasMc I bet you have been arrested a few times, only a idiot, loser, criminal would make that comment!
May 9, 2008
3:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
Lewlew writes:
dyan2003 where did you get all that information from? Maybe they turned him in because they didn't want to be accused alongside him.
May 9, 2008
3:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
chuckyg writes:
I dont care what he did or does with his gang, if he is even a gang member. I read on 9news that he was just drinking alcohol and was spotted by police, ran away because he didn't want to get a ticket for drinking alcohol. This cop makes me sick, and its no wonder why people dislike cops. If I was his father I would be talking to an Attorney. This is an OUTRAGE
May 9, 2008
3:15 p.m.
Suggest removal
equality writes:
Oh and on Ricky Lees comment...
Ismael Mena? Innocent? Lets see he was wanted for MURDER out of Mexico...In the United States Illegally, and thought the Swat team was there to arrest him and deport him back to Mexico..He fired at the Swat officers first...Innocent? WOW I hardly call that Murder on DPD's end. The only problem with that case is that the Swat officers hit the wrong house... I call it Ismael Mena's FATE!!!
And the Philly case from a couple of days ago, those guys were shooting at people and got into a car chase with officers and they got beat up, wow thats it! Those are out of control officers? I bet the citizens who were getting shot at dont mind those criminals being beat a little bit rather than those thugs being shot and killed by those officers, which they would have been justified in doing!
Next time one of these thugs robs you and shoot at you call the Fire Department, they won't be doing anything but having a BBQ at the Firehouse. Maybe they can turn their hoses on these criminals, get them all wet and then let them go.
May 9, 2008
3:25 p.m.
Suggest removal
equality writes:
I doubt he has a caring mother or father in his life,or he wouldnt have been in this situation; but if he does they are about to be really rich.
Getting drunk while underage $10...
Running from police $20...
Having drugs $200...
Getting beat up when you get caught by a rogue cop, and can sue for Millions... PRICELESS!!!
May 9, 2008
3:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
saveferris writes:
I believe most people enter the police force with good intentions. However I also believe a lot of them are being told that the citizens they are supossed to protect are the enemy. Sure they face danger everyday. I understand that and respect that. But it doesn't mean they have the right to treat people pulled over for a speeding ticket as a piece of garbage or to use excessive force in a scenario like this.
May 9, 2008
3:37 p.m.
Suggest removal
equality writes:
Lewlew it says this on 9news..
"Two other officers witnessed the incident and identified the officer as Charles Porter, a 12-year veteran of the department."
Porter was charged with using excessive force and has been suspended without pay.
Denver Police took Vasquez into custody after the incident last month but the teenager has not been charged.
May 9, 2008
3:55 p.m.
Suggest removal
OhBrother writes:
Why aren't all of you guys cops? I mean your so perfect they would love to have you! If underage drinking and running from the cops means you and your parents are worthless and lifelong criminals then I need to be under the jail! Guess what guys, my parents didn't approve! I know, shock of all shocks, somtimes when your a kid you do really dumb stuff and get in trouble and when you get home your parents are (gasp) mad and they (gasp) punish you (gasp) THEMSELVES. i guess if they don't put it on you tube now a days then it must not hvae happened.
dyani2003-I disagree with your logic on the whole philly situation. If YOU or any other normal citizen pulled these guys over and kicked the crap out of them then I would not blink a eye. These are trained police officers and they can't let there emotions interfier with up holding the law. Just becuase you deem they "desrved it" does not make it legal. Cops have higher standars and should be held to them
May 9, 2008
4:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
Vector049 writes:
I'm for the policeman on this.
This gansta culture is way out of control. Time to take the streets back and and if it means busting some punk heads to get the point across, tough beans.
Good job Officer Porter!
May 9, 2008
5:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
equality writes:
Vector... Well as far as credibility... my friend is a nurse at the hospital where the kid was being "held" for possession of a controlled substance and his blood alcohol level was around a .20 sooo I guess its more than my opinion. We will see how long it takes the media to report the kid had drugs on him. But it doesn't matter, you guys will still stay say its ok for an underage kid to drink, run from police and have drugs. Like I said, Dont call for the men in blue when someone is after you! And to ohbrother, of course you expect cops to be held to a higher standard rather than making sure they are not shot by those thugs in Philly, people like you expect cops to get shot FIRST before they take care of business. The suspects already showed they had NO FEAR by shooting at innocent people and running from the cops.
Maybe the Philly cops should have politely walked up to the car and said, "Excuse me nice young gentlemen, can you please exit the vehicle? Please? Sir I know you already shot at several people and may shoot at me, and I know you already got into a mile long car chase, but there is a guy in Colorado that thinks I should be held to a highher standard and risk my life, just to not kick your ass...when you have several guns somewhere either on your person or in the car!!! RIDICULOUS!!!! And I end this with, I agree the Denver officer should be fired, but the majority of people on here are putting down ALL Officers! It's time to stop placing the blame on the people who are here to protect and hold those accountable for the crimes they committ! And if they are a Juvenile..hold their parents responsible!
May 9, 2008
5:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
saveferris writes:
"my friend is a nurse at the hospital where the kid was being "held" for possession of a controlled substance and his blood alcohol level was around a .20 sooo I guess its more than my opinion."
dyani2003 - Your friend the nurse knowingly broke all privacy laws under HIPAA allowed to patients. Assuming what you say is true.
May 9, 2008
6:01 p.m.
Suggest removal
johnnybgood91 writes:
to oh brother.a lot of what you are saying is right on,but which of those people do you belong to ?
May 9, 2008
6:19 p.m.
Suggest removal
wow writes:
I'm often on the law and order side of cop issues, but wow, Porter screwed up. Underage drinking, running from the law, and possibly carrying drugs do not constitute a threat to the officer, and are not crimes worthy of that type of response.
I think that when a cop starts his/her career, they do it with very compassionate intentions, hoping to help their fellow man. After a few years, and especially after a decade or more, you would be hard pressed to find one who still feels that way.
Twelve years was probably ten too many for this cop.
When you start to hate the people you're serving, its time to quit.