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Bryant: 'I want to apologize' to the young woman


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Colorado
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Kobe Bryant

EAGLE, Colorado (CNN) -- The following is the statement issued by Kobe Bryant after the announcement that the woman who accused him of sexual assault would not proceed with the criminal case.

His attorney, Pamela Mackey, read the statement at a late-afternoon court hearing.

The alleged victim said Bryant assaulted her June 30 at the Lodge and Spa at Cordillera where the woman worked at the front desk. Her civil lawsuit against Bryant remains in place.

"First, I want to apologize directly to the young woman involved in this incident. I want to apologize to her for my behavior that night and for the consequences she has suffered in the past year. Although this year has been incredibly difficult for me personally, I can only imagine the pain she has had to endure.

"I also want to apologize to her parents and family members, and to my family and friends and supporters, and to the citizens of Eagle, Colorado.

"I also want to make it clear that I do not question the motives of this young woman. No money has been paid to this woman. She has agreed that this statement will not be used against me in the civil case.

"Although I truly believe this encounter between us was consensual, I recognize now that she did not and does not view this incident the same way that I did.

"After months of reviewing discovery, listening to her attorney, and even hearing her testify in person, I now understand how she sincerely feels that she did not consent to the encounter.

"I issue this statement today fully aware that while one part of this case ends today, another remains. I understand that the civil case against me will go forward. That part of this case will be decided by and between the parties directly involved in the incident and will no longer be a financial or emotional drain on the citizens of the state of Colorado."


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