EXHIBIT 16.1
Office of the Chief Accountant
SECPS Letter File
Securities and Exchange Commission
Mail Stop 11-3
450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20549


June 26, 2002

Re: Stone Energy Corporation

Dear Sir/Madam:

The representations made in this letter are based solely on discussions with and
representations  from the  engagement  partner  on the  audits of the  financial
statements  of this  registrant  for the two  most  recent  fiscal  years.  That
individual  is no longer  with Arthur  Andersen  LLP. We have read Item 4 in the
Form 8-K dated June 26, 2002 of Stone Energy Corporation (Commission File Number
1-12074) to be filed with the Securities and Exchange  Commission and have found
no basis for disagreement with the statements contained therein.

Very truly yours,


/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP

ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP




Copy to:
Mr. James H. Prince
Senior Vice President -
     Chief Financial Officer
     and Treasurer
Stone Energy Corporation
625 E. Kaliste Saloom Road
Lafayette, Louisiana 70508