Innocence Lost

Carlton Stowers is surely the finest true crime writer from Texas, and this book in particular was shocking to me because I went to high school with Thomas Knighten, the father of the boy who murdered the young undercover officer. I was hoping for answers--why did this happen? From what I understand, young Greg did not grow up in a dysfunctional home at all, and received only loving care and a stable home life from his devoted parents. He was an adopted child, and it's possible that the sociopathic personality is biogenetic. We'll never know. A high school friend who keeps in touch with the family tells us that Mr. and Mrs. Knighten have gone on with their lives and have a powerful faith in God that has sustained them. Mr. Stowers' book underlines the fact that there are no guarantees in life in his sensitive account of a senseless tragedy and the chronicle of young Greg's wasted life. By Reese Ella Howard, Wharton County, Texas

This is a story about a very young police officer recruited to work undercover in a high school where the drug problem was growing. He befriended some druggies and began making his cases. After only a few short months, a 20-something suspected he was a cop and yelled at the high schooler who had been bringing him around. The high schooler was the adopted son of a police officer. He made a plan, lured the undercover cop to a remote area, and shot him in the head with his father's police gun. The story is from the perspective of the kids, the police officers, and the attorneys, and provides an outstanding look at ALL aspects of this case and how one group caused problems for another as the case was investigated and prosecuted. I could not put this book down. It was very well written, and Carlton Stowers has become one of my favorite authors. I cannot get enough of his work. If you like true crime, Stowers's work ranks right up there with Jerry Bledsoe, who I only wish would put out another true crime book. There is no Stowers book that will disappoint you. He is one of the best.

I grew up just north of where this book takes place and this story is what made me want to become a police officer. It is a moving and chilling story and possibly the most well written true crime book I have ever read. Now working for Midlothian PD, I have met some of the actors in the unforgettable story, it hits even closer to home. George is a hero, and will forever be remembered as such. 112

This book is an excellent read for those who admire true crime. It tells a story of a young and enthusiastic undercover narcotics officer who makes the ultimate sacrifice. How anyone could disseminate negative feedback about this book, the author, or George Raffield is beyond any decent person's comprehension. After reading this book you will appreciate law enforcement and their endeavors. Carlton Stowers is an awesome author and I encourage the reading of all of his true crime books.

This book tells the story of an undercover cop whose job was to nab kids buying marijuana. It takes place in the 1st semester of senior year at a high school in a small town in Texas. The book is interesting and a great read. Someday we will look back on the times described here and wonder why it was necessary to sacrifice so much to grab a kid who bought 5 dollars of an illegal substance. Everyone turns out to be a victim. It's interesting to read how their lives changed due to a series of decisions by the police department, and a series of decisions by a group of high schoolers. Very good true crime book.