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KERIK JUST A HUSTLER

Kerik Just A Hustler

To the Editor:

Bernard Kerik is nothing more than a cheap hustler who conned his way to becoming top cop in the Giuliani administration. Now this Hall of Shame wiseguy in a silk suit walks away from court unapologetic, after his fancy lawyer arranges for him to cop to a couple of misdemeanors. Onward he goes, no doubt, to thrive on a blood-money life of profiteering from the war on terrorism.

Meanwhile, we will never know what and when Rudy knew of Kerik's unsavory ties, because DOI Commissioner Edward Kuriansky, who was vetting him for the police chief appointment (and apparently had conversations with the Mayor about it), has taken a powder. And Giuliani stole the public archives, hiding from scrutiny any possible evidence they may have chosen to ignore in order to advance good-buddy Bernie's stellar career.

It was perfectly fitting, therefore, that the name of Bernard Kerik was removed from his jail in the middle of the night. Like his sketchy rise to the top and the shadowy deal he made with the DA, he couldn't take the light. Good riddance, "Cockroach" Kerik.

FRED SMITH