"I respond to the allegations made today in Houston by declaring that they are unfounded. While it is certainly not pleasurable to go through this process, at least the allegations and accusations are now known and may be dealt with directly. I have every intention to pursue this matter to a final and full conclusion that completely exonerates me.

"This is not the forum to address the issues. I will leave that to the due process provided me. The one fact that cannot be refuted is that we will not know the issues and facts until the end of this process, and any comments or opinions before the resolution are premature. I am confident in the system and my legal counsel.

"To all who have called with offers of support and friendship, I say, thank you. We have faced many challenges together and I look upon this as another challenge to be faced. To friend and foe, now is not the time to rush to judgment of the accused or the accuser. Now is the time to let the system and process work.

"On a personal note, we all face challenges in our lives. How we deal with those challenges defines each of us as a person. I have always believed in due process and have represented hundreds of our members confronted with unfounded charges and allegations. My advice was always to take the issues head on. I will be following that advice myself.

"I trust that all will understand that from this time forward, any further comments on this matter will be made through my counsel. Again, I am overwhelmed with the calls of support. Thank you so very much."