I reviewed Joe Paterno's statements and could not find anything appalling ("Women's group wants Paterno to resign," Jan. 9). It appeared that Paterno was stating high profile athletes attract positive and negative attention and might get into relationships or flings that the college player might take lightly ignoring the emotions of the other individual.

I did not see any part of his statement making light of sexual assault, which should always be taken seriously; however, I would hope that Paterno believes that any individual is innocent until proven guilty. I feel badly for anyone who is falsely accused, only to have their reputation ruined.

With such a serious charge, the public initially sides with the person being guilty, and I hope this isn't just an attempt by Joanne Tosti-Vasey to gain national attention for the Pennsylvania chapter of the National Organization for Women.