In reviewing the record, Pete Joseph Valdez is ‘not a real felon’

Dear Editor,

Pete Joseph Valdez is not a real felon! Yes, he was charged and convicted in October 1997 of a strong arm robbery (a felony) but …

I went to visit my son this past Sunday at the Elmwood Correctional Facility in Milpitas. I shared with him what had happened to Pete Joseph. He cried profusely as did I. He then reminded me of what happened in that incident.

Pete Joseph Valdez was at a party that night at someone’s home along with many others. The beer ran out so they did a collection of money for a beer run. An 18-year-old and three minors went in Pete Joseph’s car (Pete Joseph was 18 at the time). They gave the money to the oldest looking (one of the minors) and sent him into the liquor store on First Street.

Instead of paying for the beer, the minor decided to run out of the store. Because this minor “grazed” the clerk (who was trying to stop him) this incident became a strong arm robbery.

Peter Joseph Valdez was convicted of a strong arm robbery because he drove the getaway car. The three minors were released without punishment and the other teenager only served 100 hours of community service. My son should know, he was the other 18-year-old.

By chance my son and I happened to be in that court where Pete Joseph Valdez’s request for his felony strong arm robbery charge to be reduced to a misdemeanor came before the judge. Although the district attorney’s office had recommended denial of the request, Pete Joseph Valdez and his dad spoke before the judge. The judge granted Pete Joseph Valdez’s request. Only those that stay clean for seven years from the incident can qualify for the Request for Reduction Program in Santa Clara County.

So, you see, Pete Joseph Valdez is not a real “felon.” Please leave it in the hands of the court.

Roland C. Wilson, Gilroy

Editor’s note: As reported in Friday’s edition, Valdez has 10 prior convictions, including three felony convictions.

Mark it down, the Salvation Army Telethon at Nob Hill Foods Friday

Dear Editor,

KSBW will be having their annual Salvation Army Telethon at Nob Hill Foods, Gilroy on Friday, Dec. 7 for those who wish to help with food, new toys, clothing, blankets, and donations. Beginning at 8 a.m., the anchors of the KSBW News Hour will telecast live from the store.

The Salvation Army provides food, clothing, hot meals for the homeless at noon each day, and PG&E help during the difficult months of winter. We encourage the citizens of Gilroy, San Martin, and Morgan Hill to come out and support this event. We also encourage businesses and organizations to stop by with donations.

We sincerely thank those who helped during Thanksgiving to make our lunch for the homeless a success. We also distributed over 400 turkeys and food boxes to needy families. With your help we can make a difference in the lives of children and families this Christmas season.

Captains Robert and Melissa Viquez and Christine Flautt, Advisory Board Chair, Gilroy