An excerpt from a letter sent to The River Reporter

To the editor:

...As for me, well, here I am, still being politically assassinated for trying to help people. As you know how I am, I care about people. I never aimed to hurt anyone. I am not guilty of what I am charged for, only guilty of trying to help selfish knuckle heads live out their dreams and look at the thanks I get. I admit I move a little too fast but it's not a crime as you know... I hope to show my innocence soon. Sure, at times I cut corners legally to help actors... After all the hard work my wife did to start NIIFF you want to take it over; well no you can't. I read letters to the editor and portions were so true-why did Tom Kane write accusations that were unfounded... you never seem to mention the good we did in town, only all the assumptions. Why? Anyway I know I will be cleared of wrongdoing. I could only be wrong for having a good heart. I love Narrowsburg and I will always remember the good, not like some who remember mistakes-no good things, it's a nightmare being here when you're innocent. They will have to give me 1,000 years because I will never cop out to doing anything wrong intentionally. My motives were to help people, not rob them or hurt them... if you would look into all the complainants' stories you find it's a Rat Pack vendetta... I dare you and your paper to be fair, not one-sided. I am so upset that all you do is write negative stories about me and my wife. My wife's only fault is she has a good heart and is a caring person, respectful, loving and definitely a person who would never abandon her husband... I don't assume anything. If you have the courage, please print this in your paper, I'd admire that. Also let my students know I love and miss them dearly and I will continue my school soon. I apologize to all the people who believed in me and say don't give up I am innocent. It's not true what your hearing. Wait till my story surfaces.

Richard Castellano

Monticello