Maurice Clarett's father, Myke Clarett, has issued the following public statement:

"After much thought and reflection, discussions with my family, close friends and advisors, and a number of calls from the media, I have decided to issue this statement regarding the recent criminal indictments and subsequent sentencing of my youngest son, Maurice Clarett.

I have watched this last year of my son's life unfold with deep anguish and regret.  It is my sincere hope that people will not judge Maurice solely on these recent, highly publicized events.  In the past, Maurice was a highly focused, determined athlete.  Somewhere along the way, that positive energy and focus turned into something else.  Something that only Maurice can verbalize and he has chosen not to do so at this time.

I wish that I could change the circumstances and outcome of today's hearing, but I cannot.  However, I can stand in total support of my son as he focuses on rebuilding his life."

Myke Clarett, Sr.