Richard Alatorre

Regarding “Alatorre Accused in Court Case” (April 24), where you report allegations that the councilman’s staff observed evidence of cocaine use, I would like weigh in on this discussion. As Alatorre’s press secretary during 1986-89 and as his campaign spokesperson in 1995, I had frequent and close contact with the councilman.

I can say with absolute certainty that during this time as well as during the entire 12 years I have known him, I have never observed any evidence of abuse involving any substances other than tobacco and Fritos. I understand he has given up cigarettes. I don’t know about the Fritos.

BRAD SALES

Sierra Madre