Friend or foe?

I forgot to post this photo earlier. I took it last Thursday when I was out in the garden...this guy has been there for quite a few weeks now. I haven't been able to discover what kind of spider he is but he's awfully ugly. See for yourself by clicking the photo and opening it in a larger window. Ick. So...if you know spiders, can you tell me if he is a friend or a foe?