The Fortuna City Council backs Recall

FORTUNA, Calif. (AP) - The Fortuna City Council voted unanimously to back an effort to recall Humboldt County District Attorney Paul Gallegos.

The resolution, approved Monday, takes Gallegos to task for his stance on crime. Others have complained about a controversial suit targeting Pacific Lumber Co.

Councilwoman Debi August said Gallegos is heading in a dangerous direction, alienating law enforcement and taking steps that will increase drug use and the crime rate.

The meeting was sparsely attended, and the only person speaking on Gallegos' behalf was Fortuna resident Jeanette Ahlgren.

"Please don't do this," she said.

Ahlgren said she did not see any evidence of Gallegos destroying the community, or encouraging increased drug use.

The Pacific Lumber Co. suit is driving this resolution, she said.

"I don't do drugs," she said. "I don't even take aspirin, but I voted for Paul Gallegos and I'm going to vote for him again."

"Within weeks of taking office, District Attorney Paul Gallegos increased the amount of 'medical' marijuana allowable by an astonishing 1,000 percent," the resolution said.

It also states that Gallegos' "coddling of criminals has shocked law enforcement officers and law enforcement officials lack confidence in him."