Crips founder shot, killed
By John C. Ensslin, Rocky Mountain News (Contact), Bill Scanlon, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Published May 19, 2008 at 12:05 a.m.
Updated May 19, 2008 at 12:30 p.m.
Michael Darren Asberry
The Aurora Police Department this morning confirmed that the man gunned down in front of an apartment building on Saturday morning is Michael Darren Asberry, one of the co-founders of the Crips street gang in the metro area.
Detectives are following up leads, but don't have any information on a suspect, Aurora Police spokeswoman Shannon Lucy said.
Investigators are interviewing and reinterviewing witnesses today.
The Rev. Leon Kelly, an anti-gang crusader, had said on Sunday that the victim was Asberry, 38, whom Kelly considered a friend. Aurora police waited until the Arapahoe County coroner confirmed his identity.
Aurora police responding to reports of gunfire found the victim on the ground outside an apartment building on the 15400 block of East 13th Avenue about 4 a.m. Saturday.
He died an hour later at a local hospital.
Asberry had renounced his gang connections and his criminal past, but continued to have trouble holding down a job, because his history kept catching up with him, Kelly said.
For example, he recently landed a job with the charter school Challenges, Choices and Images, but was let go when the school was criticized for hiring people with criminal pasts.
Asberry was just 15 when he helped organized the Crips gang here in the mid-1980s.
Police have offered a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of the killer. Anyone with information should call Detective Mark Yacano at 303-739-6090.
--Bill Scanlon
EARLIER STORY
Michael Derren Asberry, who helped organize the Crips street gang in Denver in the mid-1980s, was shot to death Saturday outside an apartment building in Aurora.
Aurora police responding to a report of shots fired around 4 a.m. in the 15400 block of East 13th Avenue found a man with multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body.
The victim died at a local hospital about one hour later.
On Sunday, a police spokeswoman declined to identify the dead man until an autopsy is conducted.
But Rev. Leon Kelly, a longtime anti-gang activist, confirmed that Asberry was the victim. He was 38 years old.
Kelly said he was deeply saddened by the shooting.
"Man, I've been working with this boy 20 years. It was a personal thing," Kelly said. "He's like a little brother."
Kelly declined to say much about the shooting but said it is his understanding that the shooting was not the work of the Bloods gang, the longtime rivals of the Crips.
"It's almost like that gunslinger mentality," he said. "You hang up your guns and you have to deal with the young ones who want to come along and try you."
He said Asberry had been struggling in recent years to find and hold down a job. He had worked a variety of jobs ranging from a Starbucks barista to an employee in a car wash.
"But his past kept catching up with him," Kelly said.
Recently, Asberry had landed a job with the charter school Challenges, Choices and Images. However, after questions were raised about employees at the school who had criminal records, Asberry was let go, Kelly said.
Last week, Kelly said Asberry had called him on three successive days. In the last call on Friday, Kelly said Asberry reported that he had lined up a job interview for the following week.
That was the last Kelly heard until someone else called Saturday morning to tell him that Asberry had been shot to death.
Investigators spent the weekend canvassing the neighborhood where the shooting occurred, interviewing witnesses and writing search warrants, said Aurora police spokeswoman Shannon Lucy. No suspect information was available, she said.
Police have offered a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of a suspect. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Mark Yacano at 303-739-6090.
In early 1985, Asberry, then 15, along with Albert Jones and Phillip Jefferson, organized Denver's version of the Crips street gang.
Along with the Bloods, the two gangs were responsible for a wave of crack-cocaine-fueled crimes that culminated in 1993 in the so-called Summer of Violence.
In May 1995, Asberry was arrested for assaulting Denver police officer Paul Baca during a traffic stop, kicking and spitting at the officer and threatening his family. Asberry later pleaded guilty.
A Denver district judge sentenced Asberry to six years' probation to be served in California under the supervision of a program run by former NFL great Jim Brown. However, after Los Angeles police caught Asberry carrying a loaded weapon, he was returned to Colorado to serve the rest of his sentence in prison.
Kelly said he did not wish to glamorize or minimize the bad things that Asberry did in his life.
But Kelly said he also got to see another side of Asberry, the one in which he urged kids to stay out of the gang life.
He also saw Asberry struggle after the death of his mother.
"That floored him," Kelly said. "She was his soul, his inspiration, his joy."
He suffered another loss recently in the death of a 3-year- old niece, who was allegedly killed by the mother's boyfriend.
In his heyday as a gang member, Asberry was known by his street name of "Psyco." In a 2003 interview with the Rocky Mountain News, he contended the nickname was more like "cycle" as in a pattern of repetitive behavior.
"I want to be known as Mike, not Cyc," he said. Of the gang life, he said, "It's not worth it . . . It ain't nothing but death and destruction."
--John C. Ensslin
May 19, 2008
6:25 a.m.
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Vtwinman writes:
Gang life = Death
May 19, 2008
6:30 a.m.
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ItsJustme writes:
Such an outstanding young man, cut down in the prime of life. RIP Psyco. <\sarcasm>
May 19, 2008
6:40 a.m.
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nicolec writes:
Guys like Asberry, once they decide to turn their lives around, can get through to youngsters in a way most of us cannot. They know the draw of gang life and can speak to why kids shouldn't get involved and can do it without sounding like an annoying parent or a clueless moron.
May 19, 2008
6:41 a.m.
denver_80247 writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
May 19, 2008
6:43 a.m.
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LOUIE writes:
Mr. Kelly, nobody wants your job, Lord knows the pain you carry. Thanks for all your efforts; society owes you Mr. Kelly. If nothing else be said, you did more than most of us are willing to do.
May 19, 2008
6:46 a.m.
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jacka writes:
Gang banger gets banged
May 19, 2008
6:55 a.m.
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jason45 writes:
So Asberry assults a police officer and threatens the officer's family... then gets probation???? Go figure......
May 19, 2008
6:56 a.m.
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sheepherder writes:
Good riddance, I love Karma. If I'm not mistaken, this piece of garbage is a suspect in several murders. Take your dirt nap scum.
May 19, 2008
7:07 a.m.
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analytixman writes:
You reap what you sow. No pity for a man who has brought death, crime and destructive forces to so many lives.
May 19, 2008
7:22 a.m.
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MarcoPolo writes:
Yeah, that ought to put an end to all the violence.
Right, folks?
May 19, 2008
7:23 a.m.
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climber4life writes:
denver_80247, did you not read the article? He was trying to HELP kids now.
May 19, 2008
7:24 a.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
climber... does that take away from all he did before helping kids?
May 19, 2008
7:36 a.m.
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fiesty writes:
Those of you posting negatively ought to be ashamed. By account, this man was trying to atone for his past, and do good by reaching out to the young. Now he's dead, and won't be able to continue helping others. Who knows what teen he might have been able to reach, and turn around?
May 19, 2008
7:45 a.m.
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blondiearvada writes:
Climber- He has always been helping kids. Teaching them how to traffic drugs, rob, and kill. This was his profession for what, at least 20 years. That's a damn long time. He added nothing but misery to society for all of those years, and now that he may have found God and wanted to change his life around we should have pity on him? I don't think so. He could have tried to change his life 19 years ago, but he chose not to. If he had gone out of his way in contributing to society in a positive way, then yes, we may have had more respect for the man. Yeah, he knew how to help kids, unfortunately his best methods involved crime and death.
May 19, 2008
7:46 a.m.
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LingLingfor_prez writes:
Wether you try and turn your life around or not, once you enter a gang, that chances of you making it are still low. Exiting a gang is probably less dangerous then being in one.
May 19, 2008
7:47 a.m.
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becket writes:
Good bye AH, the world is a better place today.
May 19, 2008
7:52 a.m.
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Finding_Forever writes:
RIP Mike...
May 19, 2008
7:55 a.m.
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roadstar writes:
Do you not think it's possible for someone to make permanent changes for the positive? What would Jesus say? Whether you believe in Him or not, the way He treated others was a model for us all.
May 19, 2008
8:02 a.m.
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joedog writes:
"Kelly declined to say much about the shooting but said it is his understanding that the shooting was not the work of the Bloods gang, the longtime rivals of the Crips."
What, the Bloods denied doing him in? So it was just a random shooting? I get the feeling that this AH was not as clean as Kelly thinks. Obviously someone though he needed killing. Can't wait for the rest of the story.
May 19, 2008
8:03 a.m.
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joedog writes:
Obviously someone "THOUGHT" he needed killing.
May 19, 2008
8:05 a.m.
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no12blame writes:
Unfortunetly I was around all the violence in 93' and Michael was not the only banger involved... further more he has kids, please be respectful of them at this time because to them he was just dad.
May 19, 2008
8:06 a.m.
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Roxie07 writes:
I wonder if god will have mercy on his soul!
May 19, 2008
8:08 a.m.
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Vector049 writes:
Who cares.
May 19, 2008
8:09 a.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
"Whether you believe in Him or not, the way He treated others was a model for us all."
Really? Please explain! Are you talking about the man who killed and had others kill for him, caused hate and discontent among the masses or were you talking about this Mike Asberry guy?
May 19, 2008
8:10 a.m.
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pwern writes:
I hope God does, because he'll get no mercy (or sympathy) from me. Gang-banging scum - they all deserve this fate.
May 19, 2008
8:11 a.m.
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Salchak_Toka writes:
roadstar, roadstar, roadstar. If there's one thing Christians don't believe in, it's Jesus. They much prefer the bloodlust and eternal vengeance of Yahweh.
May 19, 2008
8:15 a.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
Or maybe... just maybe Jesus would have come off the top rope with a wicked elbow to this guys skull!! Yeah... that's the ticket!
May 19, 2008
8:18 a.m.
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denver_80247 writes:
climberforlife,
I saw what the article said, Leon Kelly feeding more crap for Denver liberal media. I know assberry personally and even up to a few weeks ago he was up to no good. I am sure he was shot because he was at Dairy Queen licking an ice cream cone reading Great Expectations. assberry was a hard core gang member up until his death and got what he deserved.
May 19, 2008
8:27 a.m.
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AC writes:
I love all the "Christian" sentiment in these comments. When a man turns away from sin and changes his life, he IS forgiven. No one can change the past, only the future, and the people here who condemn him now are showing their true colors.
May 19, 2008
8:28 a.m.
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milehighman writes:
Wow, some of you have some very strong opinions about a person you didn't even know. All you see is someone who had turned to a life of crime and therefore he must be in league with Hitler and Bin Laden. This Was a man who was trying to turn his life around and prevent others from taking the same path he did. He was not perfect, and neither are you. I have faith in humans and believe that they can change.
May 19, 2008
8:32 a.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Whenever I read these stupid comments, as in when someone says they hope Asberry rots in hell, I have to wonder about the mentality of the poster. It's pretty sick and hateful. Why not, if you have a Christian inclination, pray for the dead man?
If you don't have a Christian inclination then why don't you just keep your mouth shut? From what I can see, the man knew he screwed up big-time, but was trying to make something of his life. I guess that's not good enough for some folks. Pretty sad.
May 19, 2008
8:39 a.m.
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Kslayer writes:
I hope he truly found peace, and reached out to Christ. My God Forgives all no matter what you do on this earth. It's just that the earth has no forgivness as can be seen by the posts. You reap what you so here on this Earth. That goes for all of us. From Murderers to the average joe who thinks a little dishonesty won't hurt anyone. We all sin everyday, and we will all pay somehow in this lifetime.
May 19, 2008
8:43 a.m.
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Steve writes:
MikeWoot - I'm also shocked by the hatred on these posts. I'm from the east coast and never hear this stuff. Lots of hatred in this state . . .
May 19, 2008
8:43 a.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
One other thing: I am quite sure that the good Lord himself does not care, nor does he base his decision, upon what us poor mere mortals have to say about someone whose life he decrees should end.
I think many of you give yourselves too much credit when you believe that what you say about someone being so bad and going to hell will have any bearing on God's decision.
I didn't know Michael Asberry. I have no idea what was in his heart. But let me tell you, a good many of you that have posted here didn't know either. But because you are so full of cynicism, you immediately assume the worse. But let me say this: it takes just a little more effort to believe in the good of man. If Asberry was trying to find good in his life, then I guess that is a bit more honorable than those that have chosen to find nothing but the bad in it, and shame on those people.
May 19, 2008
8:45 a.m.
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bouche writes:
he without sin cast the first stone.. GOD forgives all we just have to ask, he was changingand he will make it before alot of us ,no he was no saint but he did ask GOD for help and ultimately thats all that matters
May 19, 2008
8:46 a.m.
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DahmersCookbook writes:
joedog is right! Someone wanted him dead, why? Probably not because he found God. Same old tricks i'm sure.
May 19, 2008
8:48 a.m.
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HolierThanThou writes:
I never realized there were so many gang members blogging on this board until now. Maybe we should invite some Crips to add their 2 cents. Seems only fair to balance their views with members of rival gangs who've been expressing so much glee at the death of old Michael Asberry here.
May 19, 2008
8:49 a.m.
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timeandagain writes:
MikeWoot-
I don't have a Christian inclination, so I should just keep my mouth shut? How stupid are you? No, I do not have a Christian inclination - I got over that brainwashing long ago. The central message of Christianity - the one that scares all of the insecure masses into their beliefs - is that if you don't accept Jesus your savior, you will [essentially] burn in hell for the afterlife.
Now, I believe that is one of the earlier comments here that you were taking exception with..."burn in hell"? What a stupid double-standard you have...
May 19, 2008
9:01 a.m.
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joedog writes:
Before you start praising this guy for turning his life around, wait til all the facts are in. What was he doing at 4:00 AM outside an apartment in Aurora? Delivering newspapers? Why was Kelly so quick to deny the Bloods had anything to do with it? How does he know it was Asberry if the cops won't say for sure? The whole scenario stinks. Let's not start heaping forgiveness on this gangster yet.
May 19, 2008
9:03 a.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
What double standard do I have? I don't see one.
When I say those without a Christian inclination ought to keep their mouth shut, what I should have added is to keep their mouths shut instead of speaking ill of a dead man. What good does it add to the world to rip on him? Nothing. He's dead. He cannot add or detract to anyone's life now, so why rip on him now? Where were all of you when he was alive? Did any of you lift a finger to try to give him a lesson in life for a more positive lifestyle instead of a criminal one? I doubt it.
If you asked that of me, I would tell you that I didn't even know the man existed. But I might have tried to seek him out. I've done it before, but as a white man with none of the same life experience as Michael Asberry, I doubt I'd have had much credibility. But, I WOULD HAVE TRIED. What would any of you naysayers have done?
But I guess, timeanagain, that you are one of those that would rather bitch about things and find the negativity than try to find something good in something. I'm glad that you have the disorder and not me.
May 19, 2008
9:03 a.m.
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Finding_Forever writes:
I grew up with Mike and most of these dudes. The gang life isnt worth it. My condolences go to Mike's family.
May 19, 2008
9:11 a.m.
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johnson writes:
I agree with JoeDog, the whole thing is kinda fishy. It seems like Rev. Kelly knows a lot more about this shooting than he's telling. And the fact he'd been "working with this boy for 20 years" doesn't say much about his skill as a gang buster.
May 19, 2008
9:14 a.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Johnson, I know Leon Kelly and he is a fine man. But all he can do is give advice and guidance to these young people. It's up to them to take it and put it to use. If they don't, then that's not Leon Kelly's fault nor should it be a reflection on his skills as a leader.
May 19, 2008
9:27 a.m.
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johnson writes:
I think some of that advice should have been: get out of the town where you are known, if you want to go straight.
May 19, 2008
9:33 a.m.
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bouche writes:
wow what judgemental people we have here, wishing death? a better place, watch your words, it doesnt matter what side you are on it was still a life lost, lets put your life on the screen and see what you have hidden, think about it!
May 19, 2008
9:34 a.m.
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tm3869 writes:
I hope he truly found peace, and reached out to Christ. My God Forgives all no matter what you do on this earth. It's just that the earth has no forgivness as can be seen by the posts. You reap what you so here on this Earth. That goes for all of us. From Murderers to the average joe who thinks a little dishonesty won't hurt anyone. We all sin everyday, and we will all pay somehow in this lifetime.
Kslayer, you said it perfectly......
May 19, 2008
9:37 a.m.
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American100 writes:
How could it be any other way? You die as you live.
I'm sure his death brings closure and maybe even comfort to many.
May 19, 2008
9:42 a.m.
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American100 writes:
To RMN: Perhaps you could cover this from a cops perspective, or family members of this losers victims.
Time and again the RMN chooses to portray the criminal element as the victim.
May 19, 2008
9:47 a.m.
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tjpatriot writes:
If he had a chance to get out of that life relatively unscathed, then he should have taken the opportunity and been thankful. But look at the time he was shot: 4 am Saturday morning. WTF was he doing? For him to survive this long after what he'd been involved in before, then to expose himself doing whatever the hell be was doing outside an apartment complex at 4 am, he has to bear some responsibility in his own demise. RIP
May 19, 2008
9:50 a.m.
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Tati writes:
Just b/c you leave the gang life does not mean you will be free and clear. He could have been shot for something he did years ago, gang life never forgives or forgets.
May 19, 2008
9:51 a.m.
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freedomfighter1 writes:
Are the police looking for the shooter to give a reward? I wonder how much suffrage and misery this man brought to the community. You play with fire, you get burnt.
May 19, 2008
9:51 a.m.
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OhBrother writes:
Banging is a way of life and death. Changing the past can not be done but you can control your future. I have no pity for this man becuase he chose his path, but he also was able to see the error of his ways and TRY to change them. Does his death actualy make things better for you? Does this now resolve the gang problem in Colorado or does praying that people burn in hell make you sleep well at night?
May 19, 2008
9:52 a.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT...
"How dare you rip on a dead man." How many deaths did he cause?
"He found god." So what. I do not believe in god and find your statement be nothing better then a cover story for this mans deeds in the past. How does him 'coming to god' ease the pain of those he hurt? Your god may forgive... but I do not! OH.. his death DOES add to my life. I don't have to worry about his stupid antics anymore!!
If you wish to debate on something with Fact, I am more them willing. If you wish to debate on some mystical being... have at it! That discussion has been killing folks for 1000's of years!
May 19, 2008
9:57 a.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
JESUS SAVES!!
HE SHOOTS
HE SCORES!!
TIMMY!!!
May 19, 2008
9:58 a.m.
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Alive writes:
Live by the swoard, die by th.....Oh never mind.
May 19, 2008
10:02 a.m.
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fiesty writes:
Ah yes, he was out at 4 AM so "of course" he deserved what he got. Just like women who wear short skirts are "asking" to be raped, right? Hate to break it to you American100, but whether or not he committed crimes in the past, he WAS a victim here- he was shot dead. Unless they can prove self-defense (unlikely, he was shot outside unarmed), that means the person who shot him broke the law and is the victimizer.
Geez. So much hatred and venom on this board- YOU sound like gang members! ("he got what he deserved" = "he's gonna get what he deserves") If you can't say anything nice, then keep your mouth shut! Instead, some prayers for his family would be in order.
May 19, 2008
10:04 a.m.
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American100 writes:
BOHOOO Cry me a river Fiesty.
May 19, 2008
10:36 a.m.
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Squatch writes:
Years of doing bad deeds finally got to him. I dont feel sorry for him how many lives have been ruined because of him and his actions.
May 19, 2008
10:39 a.m.
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fleetmack writes:
"He could have tried to change his life 19 years ago, but he chose not to."
So it matters how long he got to live after he made a choice to make his life better with regards to if you'll respect him or not? One year was not enough but 19 would have been? His life was taken from him. He was helping people and appeared to be on pace to continue this. Certainly his choices 20 years ago were harmful, but the future would have been brighter if he had continued on the path he was on.
RIP Mike.
May 19, 2008
10:46 a.m.
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bouche writes:
ok idiots, one down but so many to take his place, there will be alot more violence now, obviously you are speaking on something you know nothing about,i am not sticking up for him but if one tries to change thier life then thats positive, im glad you aren't GOD! and there is a GOD, somethings are true whether you believe them or not, your choice
May 19, 2008
10:48 a.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
Hey, Tookie was doing good things too, found Jesus, but still got the painless lethal injection.
He rolled with the Crips, and the shotgun blasts he did to his victims were a lot more painful...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanley_...
Karma just caught up. Dead gangbangers are a good thing.
Deal with it.
May 19, 2008
10:52 a.m.
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SeaBass writes:
The gangwar that will result from this will only further prove what a wasteland ghetto toxic cesspool of humanity Aurora is. Ironically, if enough of these thugs kill each other, Aurora will actually become a better place in the long term.
May 19, 2008
10:54 a.m.
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bhurd64 writes:
How dare you insensitive and ignorant pathetic people who would disrespect the family of someone so recently deceased. May death never visit your househould, may your sons or daughters never make mistakes and may you yourself not be a pedophile or incestuous. May you not be damned to a life of hypocrisy, with family members that are prescription drug addicts or having unprotected sex or abortions. (Too Late!) WHO ARE YOU TO JUDGE THE SIN OF ANOTHER AS GREATER THAN THAT OF YOUR OWN? The next time that you lie or are lied to, to cloak the truth about yourself or a family memeber, remember... MICHAEL ASBERRY WAS HONEST ABOUT WHO HE WAS. I loved Michael and when he looked at himself in the mirror I am sure that he loved who he saw, a man with more content of character than you.
May 19, 2008
10:58 a.m.
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Cypher33 writes:
I can’t believe half of the sh** I am reading right now. A man was murdered.. It’s sick to celebrate that. Whether it was 4 a.m., or 2 p.m., he didn’t deserve to die. I don’t recall Michael ever being convicted of murder. I could be wrong, maybe one of you know it alls can help me with that one.
As far as Leon Kelly goes.. He’s in it for the money!! Anyone from the North East area knows that. When Darrent Williams was murdered, he was in the news running his mouth about folks he doesn’t even know. He also got a FAT grant for "gang prevention". I am from North East Denver and went to the Rev to talk about gang activity, and these young men who wanted help. He saw me as a threat rather than a resource. He’s full of sh** like you idiots who haven’t spent a day on the East Side or North Park Hill or The 5 Points.
Asberry being murdered did nothing but hurt that community. Now the Crips got a score to settle whether it was a blood that murdered him or not. You know that North East Denver strip mall that was burned down yesterday. We call it The Holly. Blood Central!! That’s where they hang out… Was it arson?? I have no clue, but it is very ironic that Mike gets murdered and the Holly burns down the next day. If this cycle continues, there will be a lot of young men lost, as well as innocent victims.
It’s way deeper than some Crip being killed.
May 19, 2008
11:02 a.m.
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nayla34u writes:
Well guys he started banging at 11 or 12 so obvious it took a while for him to grow up and reality to sink in. Only God can be the judge even though I do agree that he may have been trying to change but the world that he created before reaching that point has destroyed so many innocent peoples lives. My prayers are with his family and kids.
May 19, 2008
11:03 a.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
"WHO ARE YOU TO JUDGE THE SIN OF ANOTHER AS GREATER THAN THAT OF YOUR OWN?"
I would say his police record would allow this! Being in a gang for 20 years, selling drugs and killing people. Yeah, you have a point here.
"MICHAEL ASBERRY WAS HONEST ABOUT WHO HE WAS."
So this will take the pain form the families he afflicted?
"a man with more content of character than you."
AK47's, drugs and a LONG rap sheet is what you were looking for. Not character... but close!
"How dare you insensitive and ignorant pathetic people who would disrespect the family of someone so recently deceased"
Did he feel this way when he destroyed families? Did he respect people? Again, I would bet his rap sheet would say other wise!
"May you not be damned to a life of hypocrisy, with family members that are prescription drug addicts or having unprotected sex or abortions."
Or sell drugs to kids. Or kill innocent people caught in your cross fire, or recruit young kids into your gang to do your dirty work, or steal, or etc etc etc. Gottcha!!!
Just because he was your friend does not mean he was a waste to society and the world is a better place with his passing!
May 19, 2008
11:06 a.m.
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generalsn1234567 writes:
Selling drugs must be good job, with money and benefits. The only thing that's not too good is the retirement plan.
May 19, 2008
11:09 a.m.
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Finding_Forever writes:
Im with you Cypher, everyone knows that Mike getting shot and the Holly getting burned down is connected.
May 19, 2008
11:11 a.m.
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freethought writes:
I can get away with anything as long as I have found Jesus? I did, he was behind the sofa!
May 19, 2008
11:13 a.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Think about the worst thing any of your have done, and I would imagine that based on some of the venom I've seen here, it would have to be pretty nasty. Yet there you all sit and judge Michael Asberry, Leon Kelly, and anyone else unfortunate to appear in the news.
I will never understand what anyone gains by celebrating that a fairly young life ended so violently. Does that really make you feel good? If any of you had the guts, could you stand toe to toe with one of his family members IN PERSON and tell them how great you think his death is? Could you actually say that? I doubt very many of you clods would have the nerve. Now Marine Grunt would probably say he does, but he's as full of crap as the rest. He's just another macho wannabe tough guy.
May 19, 2008
11:20 a.m.
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freethought writes:
MikeWoot, could you stand toe to toe with one of the family members of his victims and tell them how bad you think his death is? I guess it depends on which side of the fence you lean.
May 19, 2008
11:22 a.m.
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LoneTreeLady75 writes:
Wow, the death of Mike has sparked a long and hot summer for Park Hill, the Eastside and the DPD gang unit. Word is that it will be 1993 all over again. Most commenting on here didnt know Mike, I did. My uncles grew up with Mike and Phil so I know what kind of person he USED to be and what kind of person he was TRYING TO BECOME. RIP Cyc, you'll be truly missed.
May 19, 2008
11:23 a.m.
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Elwood writes:
Too bad more of his earnings weren't taxable. Social Security could have used the extra money!
May 19, 2008
11:33 a.m.
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Mommi writes:
SMMFH@ some of the comments...Regradless of what kind of person he was death was not the answer. I did not personally know Mike but I knew of him and ran into him at the black arts, etc. But I do and did know a lot of people from Mike's hood. And I know that this is about to be a crazy way to start off the summer for Denver. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends. RIP Mike
May 19, 2008
11:37 a.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Freethought, the only side of the fence I lean on is the side that says it is wrong for ANYONE to be murdered, and that is wrong for people to celebrate anyone's murder. I have no idea if Michael Asberry killed anyone or not. I hope not, and if he did, then he is paying the penance for it right now, as he should.
As bad as you all say he was, and I am sure he was definitely not a stellar citizen in his bad days, in your own ways many of you are not much better. You talk smack about how he did this and that and he deserved to do and all of that. Remember how God said that all sins are equal?
How in the world could anyone of you hypocrites determine whether or not he deserved to die? None of you. No one- not me, not you- is fit to make that judgement, except God.
You all say the world is a better place without him. Is that so? Just how do you determine that? What if you died and we said the same about any of you? Would we be wrong, would we be right? In your own eyes and your family's eyes, the would IS NOT a better place without you, right? But for those that loathe you, then the world is a better place. But which opinion is actually THE correct opinion? The answer? Neither. Only God can make that determination, and the last time that I checked there was only one God, and I am pretty sure none of you is him.
May 19, 2008
11:38 a.m.
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Ztliano writes:
I don't care as well.
May 19, 2008
11:38 a.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Yella, You say that no one is celebrating his death? I guess you haven't read all the posts.
May 19, 2008
11:46 a.m.
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Positive1 writes:
I feel right now we have to remember that our community counts and I dont want to see Park Hill come to dirt because of a leader who had nothing to do with gang relation.
We just got a major business in our community that was black owned and now it has been burned down I believe that right now we have to let the young ones who think they new this young man that he wouldnt want you to burned down nothing. I believe that if you see this man story that at the end of everything you dont have nothing to show for it but people who will judge you without knowing your story so at this time I just wish we can pray for the young ones in the community to let them know that at the end only thing that you walk away if you get to walk away alive is a felony and no job. So young people dont destroy our community it is beautiful and we our beautiful in it so dont let them pre judge you and put you in handcuffs and treat you like dogs. Get an education and move on in life I believe that at the end Michael Asbury wished that he would had did things differently.
So just remember that retaliation and fighting isnt getting us as a people anywhere but prejudge like the comments above.
May 19, 2008
11:47 a.m.
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freethought writes:
MikeWoot, I dare you to take god out of the equation and see how it will flesh out.(NPI) You see, god has no argument when discussing reality. It is pure conjuncture on your part. Now, how does man deal with man? He looks for the most guilt, prosecutes and issues penalty. I think that this is very human-like. Oh, the last time I checked, I could find evidence of no god at all. What is your proof?
May 19, 2008
11:54 a.m.
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Mommi writes:
AMEN @POSITIVE!!
May 19, 2008
12:09 p.m.
OhBrother writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
May 19, 2008
12:12 p.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Freethought,
I would never consider taking God out of the equation. He is a major part of my reality. In fact, He IS my reality. As for what you call "proof", I have something much greater- it's called faith. As for your not finding evidence of God, I'm not surprised. If you don't believe and if you don't have faith, then of course you're not going to find God. But don't kid yourself. He's out there. He's knows where YOU are. He's just waiting for you to make a choice to find Him.
Think of this- What if you ARE right and there is no God, then you die yet did believe in God anyhow. Well, you lost nothing by believing. But on the other hand, what if you died and found that there really is God and Christ and you had never believed? Then you lose everything. You lost the chance for redemption, you lost the chance for eternal life. You lost it all.
Now I can tell you which one I chose. It's Christ, hands down. I feel it on a daily basis. I pray and thank Him for His presence. I FEEL His presence. So now you want to ask me for proof? Well, that's all the proof I will ever need. EVER.
May 19, 2008
12:24 p.m.
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rocketryder writes:
The king of the crips is gone. RIP Psycho Mike.
Lonetreelady gave fair warning though.
It's about to start getting real hot in Denver............
May 19, 2008
12:24 p.m.
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bouche writes:
YES THERE ARE ARE PEOPLE CELEBRATING THIS DEATH, AND THROWING PARTIES, UNFORTUNATELY THIS IS GOING TO BE ANOTHER SUMMER OF VIOLENCE, THERE ARE THINGS BEING PLANNED AS WE SPEAK, I DID KNOW HIM AND WHEN YOU CHOSE TO TRY TO CHANGE YOUR WAYS THATS A GOOD THING, ALL ANYONE CAN DO NOW IS BE EXTRA CAREFUL AND PRAY
May 19, 2008
12:26 p.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
As for speaking FOR God, that's not my place. I will witness for God. I will attest to what His presence has done in my life. I will talk about what I believe His words teaches us. But I believe that in the end, God can speak mighty well all by Himself.
Yella asked why God doesn't bring Michael Asberry back. I cannot answer that. What I BELIEVE is the case is that God need Michael Asberry for a greater purpose. Perhaps it was to end the suffering that Michael Asberry had inflicted on others. Perhaps it was to end Asberry's own suffering. Perhaps it was to teach young people that if you live a street life, then this is how it could end. But who really knows? Only God.
I sometimes think that people believe God takes someone on a whim. I don't think so. I am certain it is all part of his plan.
May 19, 2008
12:29 p.m.
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bushmaster writes:
CELEBRATE!!!!!!!!
May 19, 2008
12:35 p.m.
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nayla34u writes:
Rest In Peace Micheal Asbury!!!!!!!!
true he lived a horable life and did things that probably caused lost to others families but like I said let God be the judge. God forgives and to my understanding Mike wanted forgiveness for all the wrong doings that he knows he did. he wasn't mature and hi mom must of been busy working to jobs to take care of her family or just couldn't control Mike. He joined the gang at like 12 or 15 or whatever but hey something was wrong right there. So at that time the gangs and all the violence that came with it was his family until her finally matured and realized theres more to life than being a gang member. I hate the gangs and the killings and I wish every one would step up and grow up. Setting the Holly on fire was just another reason that we have a summer to look forward to violence. I realy don't know but i feel it was very much connect Mike killed at about 4am and the very next morning the Holly is on fire at 4am. I don't know but it needs to stop and please sdhow a little bit more respect for the lost of Mike.
May 19, 2008
12:35 p.m.
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Tashalp writes:
God is the only Judge here! I have no pity on Gang Bangers because I know the drama/Damage they can cause for our community. Park Hill and the East side will now have to worry if its safe to step outside their homes in a Red or Blue shirt now due to the incident this weekend with Mike. Bbut we dont know how he was raised and that has alot to do with any Gang Bangers or any Young black male that is incarcerated now. From what I know and what i've read he's never had a stable home so he went to the streets to take care of him. My cousin has a baby by him and now this boy will grow up fatherless. Yes you read the negativity about him starting the crips but "if" he was turning his life around praise God he was able find Jesus before he left this cruel place called Earth. May God Rest his soul. I pray for a safe and serene summer! Everybody play it safe and know your surroundings!
May 19, 2008
12:38 p.m.
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happymike44 writes:
If there is truly a special place for bangers.Hope it is as hot as a thousand suns all day and night long for them.These scumbags deserve nothing from the world for the misery they caused thousands of people on a daily basis.They are the reason people can not walk down the street and feel safe.Glad he is gone,hope they keep bumping each other off.Remember the only good gang memeber is a dead one.They breed like cockroaches in the wall of a slum.They say I am poor so it gives me a right to do this.When you act like this you have no rights as far as I am concerned.Turned his life around,not. If he truly wanted a better life he would have disbanded the gang and showed the world he had repented for his sins.Glad the dirtbag scum is gone.Maybe some people can sleep a little easier tonight knowing he is gone.By the way the gangs are like the mob.You only get out if your dead.
May 19, 2008
12:41 p.m.
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freethought writes:
Me thinks, MikeWoot doth protest too much.
He needs his own cable show.
Where is MarineGrunt when I need him? Our Giant Flying Spaghetti Monster, who art in the heavens, ballyhooed be his name...
May 19, 2008
12:44 p.m.
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tm3869 writes:
Yella,
As much as we hate it, you know they are planning things......
May 19, 2008
12:44 p.m.
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EZBakeOven writes:
Look at it this way - for a gangbanger he lived a pretty long life. Most lose theirs at 18 or 24. Wake up gangsters/gangstettes - the only way to leave the gang is through death. Pretty sad. DO something with your lives instead of wallow in your pity and stupid social rules for it is no life at all.
May 19, 2008
12:48 p.m.
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mis_kia79 writes:
Just so you all know, it is so disrepectful to wish death on anyone, regardless of their past. "God don't like ugly and he ain't to fond of pretty neither." Wishing death on others or even just saying that someone deserves to die, is like making a death wish on yourself or your family, it will come back to you, then I want to see who you will blame, not karma.
May 19, 2008
12:52 p.m.
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rmnreader writes:
Karma's a bi*** huh Mike?
May 19, 2008
12:59 p.m.
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O_TRAIN writes:
Asberry's legacy is to show the younger generation there is no future in gang life - even if you turn your life around. It's likely a matter of "sooner or later"
MikeWoot - as far as the thought that you should believe in God "just in case" he exists. I've known it to be called "Pascals Wager"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascals_...
I would also be interested in how you would explain the old story, of the Atheist and the Christian - the Atheist says, "we are not that much different, I only believe in one less God than you. The reasons you dismiss every other God is the same reason I dismiss yours"
and no, I'm not an atheist
May 19, 2008
12:59 p.m.
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gkb2008 writes:
Live by the gun, die by the gun. He will "enjoy" eternity in the fires of Hades, tormented and tortured by Lucifer, as will all those who have or will choose his path. Gangs = Stupidity and then an early death on Earth, but endless agony and ruthless pain in the afterlife.
May 19, 2008
1:17 p.m.
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nonayerbsns writes:
JOEDOG... There can be only ONE joedog (I hope... though I thought it was joedawg...)
Okay, not important. Yeah, yeah, the guy turned his life around (or so some claim) but the fact remains: too many people are involved in gangs in Denver (and dead or injured because they exist) who wouldn't be in these situations if it weren't for this schmuck. Karma got him. Good.
May 19, 2008
1:20 p.m.
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nonayerbsns writes:
MIKEWOOT: did you really say this: If you don't have a Christian inclination then why don't you just keep your mouth shut?
Just who the hell do you think you are???? Where do you think you are???? This is a free-thinker's forum (usually, anyway).
May 19, 2008
1:26 p.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Nonayebsns, If you would have read all of my posts here, you would see that I further clarified myself. Apparently, you didn't do that. You might want to get all of your facts straight before you start shooting off your mouth.
As for freethinkers out here, I'd agree that is it free. But for many thinkers here- I don't think so. Particularly those that expressed hatred and glee that someone died. It doesn't require a whole lot of thinking to find hatred and negativity in everything.
May 19, 2008
1:27 p.m.
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rocketryder writes:
Yella,
If you only knew. Things ARE being planned as we speak, and Denver's about to get real hot. The posters that have said this already (cypher33, findingforever, and lonetreelady) obviously know what time it is. And it appears you don't have a watch.
The king of the crips gets killed, a blood gets shot, then the heart of the blood neighborhood (The Holly) burns down soon thereafter. Coming from someone who grew up in Park Hill, spent almost everyday of my younger life at, or around the Holly, trust me when I tell you. People are preparing for war.
May 19, 2008
1:33 p.m.
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happymike44 writes:
Wel it seems the streets are a little safer for today.Hope these guys keep playing let's take a dirt nap.It is a game reserved for a select few members.Hope he enjoys the agony of the fiery pits of hades.
May 19, 2008
1:44 p.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
OTrain- I do not think someone should believe in God "just in case", nor is that what I said. Either a person is going to believe, or they are not. But what I cannot understand is why someone would deliberately choose NOT to believe in Christ. I have spoken with many, many non-believers and I always find it interesting that by dismissing the God I believe in, they always say things like, "Well if God is so good then why won't he do such and such," or "I wonder what God thinks about me not believing in him."
Well, if a non-believer doesn't care or believe in God, then why do they wonder (as they even acknowledge His existence) what God thinks? Why would they care?
But I'm not out here to argue God's existence. I just have my opinions, and there are those that think I'm a crackpot or something. So what? I know who I am, what I am, where my heart is, and what my morals are.
Therefore, I feel it is horribly wrong that people say (about Michael Asberry) "have a nice dirt nap, scumbag", or "I'm glad he's dead," or "he got what he deserved." This is where I think it applies that if you can't say anything nice, the don't say anything at all.
But if it fills any of you with a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment that a man was murdered, then you're in serious moral disrepair. If ALL of society thought like that, we would be in serious trouble.
So go ahead and take your potshots at me. I could care less. It won't change how I feel, it won't change my convictions, and it won't quiet me.
But when you have said all of the nasty things you've said, then you have to look yourself in the eye when you look in the mirror, will you be able to say "boy, I'm sure proud of myself that I regaled in the fact that a man was murdered. That's makes my whole day and I'm proud that I rejoice in the fact that I think it is okay someone was killed" ?
Would your family be proud that you thought that way? Would your children admire you for such thinking?
Would your mother say, "Yep, that's how I brought up my children- to be glad when others are killed, even if they were bad"?
Go ahead and chew on that, folks.
May 19, 2008
1:45 p.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
Dangit... I was having a wonderful worship session with the Beloved Flying Spaghetti Monster (eating pasta... body of my lord!)!!
OK... seems some are unable to accept the fact that there may not be a god. Your Faith is strong and gets you thru your day? AWESOME. I am glad and will gladly allow you to have your Faith. My Faith lies in the fact I can go thru my day without looking over my shoulder to see if someone is running up behind me to pop a cap in my arse, either! I know, if needed,I can and will give my life to save the life of my daughter and wife.
Will god swoop down and do this for me if I pray hard enough?
Send enough money to the church?
He didn't do much for those 13 yr olds with AK47's in Somalia! But, I guess god hates Somali's if all is his will, correct? And if I may... if man is a copy of god... is god a pimp? hooker? serial rapist? drug dealer? child molester? gay? abortion doctor? politician? (Don't worry if you get flustered and start calling me names trying to answer this one... it's only natural in your condition!)
Continue to hide behind your church, pews and church leaders, enjoy your religion and cast your hate... it's your own creation!
Would I walk up the arseclowns parents and laugh in their face? No, you got me there. Rude is rude... but this is a public forum! (With ALL my macho BS dripping off me, baby!!)
May 19, 2008
1:45 p.m.
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American100 writes:
Really interesting reading. If what rocketryder says is true then I'm worried.
Rocketryder, you could write a book, sell it as a series and make a few million.
May 19, 2008
1:48 p.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
And I missed this...
Looking at mirror... "I am glad he is dead!"
Try getting out of the US (a REAL 3rd world country) and try typing what you did above!
May 19, 2008
1:54 p.m.
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BillDeville writes:
If only Sir Mario could have been there to catch a bullet with him...
May 19, 2008
2:01 p.m.
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O_TRAIN writes:
MikeWoot - thanks for your feedback, I've always had a lot of questions, which Christians or other religions cannot answer. Which leads me to be more apathetic or agnostic.
I am indifferent to Asberry, I neither mourn nor celebrate his death. He made his choices which eventually led to his demise.
To quote an old song, "life is what you make it, and if you make it death, well rest your soul"
May 19, 2008
2:19 p.m.
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dcolon47 writes:
get rid of the scum one at a time
May 19, 2008
2:19 p.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Marine Grunt-
You wrote:
"And I missed this...
Looking at mirror... "I am glad he is dead!"
Try getting out of the US (a REAL 3rd world country) and try typing what you did above!
--
Okay, first of all, I doubt you did look in the mirror. Secondly, I doubt you did it when you were typing.
Secondly, your second sentence makes no sense to me whatsoever.
May 19, 2008
2:23 p.m.
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coloradoorbust writes:
And there will be dancing in the streets!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
May 19, 2008
2:28 p.m.
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KnoWhatYoureTalkinAbout writes:
WOW! That ran on and on and on and on...........And for what, to get a rise out everyone here. Some of you posting in here, I've seen before, and some of you not. I use to get caught up in the hype and go to battle with a great deal of you, (ignorant and legit) but when are YOU really going to move on to do something better with your days than to visit these forums and stir the pot? You consider yourselves professional bloggers and such. THAT's an oxy-moron! Literally. For everyone who's got sense and are here to acknowledge that this man made strides in changing his life good for you, and for all others, grow up already.
May 19, 2008
2:29 p.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
Well.. iI will admit it was a bit broken.. so let me let in on a little secret. Its called inferring. You take the broken set of words and attempt to 'infer' what that person was saying.
I go to fast for you yet?
OK...
What I meant was try and live your "style" of life in a 3rd World Country. Pick anyone, lots to chose from. Now, walk around with your "Oh, can't we all get along" attitude and see how long it takes you to get dead. Americans have this backasswards was of thinking. Most believe man can get along with one another, in some sort of harmony. Never going to be...
And the mirror thing. Wow, weak attempt at a come back. (But YES I DID!!! HA HA HA.. Plus I said Biggie Smalls 3 times and damn near got shot!!) Your skill at side stepping the issue at hand is near Epic! Any chance you want to answer a few of the questions?
Your Troll-Fu is weak...
May 19, 2008
2:29 p.m.
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joe_leezey writes:
He should have been locked in prison 30 years ago and never let out!
May 19, 2008
2:30 p.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
"For everyone who's got sense and are here to acknowledge that this man made strides in changing his life good for you, and for all others, grow up already."
Soooo.. see it your way or your an idiot? Mighty christain of you!
May 19, 2008
2:32 p.m.
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KnoWhatYoureTalkinAbout writes:
Keep stiring Grunt! If it makes you a better person at the end of the day.
May 19, 2008
2:36 p.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
How does making some one own up to a statement make me a better person? I can explain my convections and belief's... why can't you?
May 19, 2008
2:38 p.m.
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KnoWhatYoureTalkinAbout writes:
I haven't read a sound explanation to your convections or beleifs just a whole lot of aggression and sh!t talking.
May 19, 2008
2:40 p.m.
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MikeWoot writes:
Thank you for all of your responses, kind and otherwise.
I have seen enough horrid logic, hatred toward one's fellow man, and misguided thought processes for one day, so I am finished out here, Thank God.
However, one parting volley:
Marine Grunt, in your attempt to come across as intelligent, you have failed. You cannot compose a sentence to save your life and you cannot spell, either. It seems all you can do is bash Christians and anyone that doesn't agree with you. If all you can talk is guff, then go talk it to the devil. Go try to figure out if you know who said that.
May 19, 2008
2:46 p.m.
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Steph writes:
MikeWoot, there are so many things wrong with you answers, I can't help but laugh. For instance, why would a loving God put humans on earth and make them imperfect, yet punish them because of their imperfections? I could go on and on.
I can just as well say that I have faith becuase I believe in the flying Spaghetti Monster and I'd have as much logic as you do now.
May 19, 2008
2:47 p.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
The old Grammar Nazi, er Jesus of spelling?
If you can't hang... point out the grammar issues? Free speech man.. I LOVE IT. Why does it get you so rilled up?
Go be with god. Maybe he can help you answer the above questions!
Well KnowWhat.. no one has ever asked me. Are you? What would you like to know?
May 19, 2008
2:49 p.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
Damnit, almost forgot... old Gus said that!
Too bad the devil is in the details!!!
May 19, 2008
2:50 p.m.
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KnoWhatYoureTalkinAbout writes:
No not at all. Enjoy your rant.
May 19, 2008
2:52 p.m.
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MarineGrunt writes:
Then why did you say what you did? You feel you had a moral obligation to open you mouth and make your feelings known?
Why did you respond a 2nd time?
May 19, 2008
2:53 p.m.
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joe_leezey writes:
Go to the City and County of Denver's website:
http://www.denvergov.org/apps/newcour...
Search for the name Michael Asberry and look through some of his 48 arrests that were logged over the years. I really don't understand why, but you will see that the prosecuting attorneys requested that the charges be dimissed almost every single time!
May 19, 2008
2:56 p.m.