Patterson councilwoman's tragic past is no excuse

The Jan. 6 front page articles about Patterson Councilwoman Sheree Lustgarten told the story of her traumatic past; however I believe it is important not to let this account distract from the larger issue — that Lustgarten lied and is unfit to represent the people.

While I found Lustgarten's story of abuse to be harrowing, I'm left questioning its authenticity. Lustgarten recently conceded that she lied about her financial past during her campaign, and I believe that she is lying again. While domestic violence is a terrible crime, a California court acquitted Lustgarten's former husband of felony spousal abuse charges.

Additionally, a counselor wrote to the court that Lustgarten the husband was the primary caregiver and Lustgarten was "mentally challenged, reportedly bipolar with psychotic features." Who do we believe?

Lustgarten has no credibility, and has already betrayed the public's trust in her nascent political career. Patterson needs leaders with integrity, and unfortunately that is not Sheree Lustgarten.

WARREN COX

Patterson