Paterno family, allies respond to Freeh report

The family of Joe Paterno has released a report disputing claims that the late Penn State coach failed to adequately respond to child abuse allegations against Jerry Sandusky.

 

The 238-page report responds directly to the report compiled by former FBI director Louis Freeh for Penn State’s trustees. That report accused Paterno of participating in a cover-up.  

Penn State alumnus Jeff Jubelirer said Monday that he’s still reading the newest document.

“I feel confused, I feel a lot of emotion about whether he could have done more. I think he said before he passed — Joe Paterno — that he wishes in hindsight he had done more,” he said. “But it makes me feel a little bit stronger that he was not involved in an elaborate cover-up.”

The Paterno family’s investigation was headed by former Pennsylvania Gov. Dick Thornburgh.

Jubelirer, who works in public relations, thinks it probably comes too late to change the opinion of the general public.

But, he says, the Penn State community is still engaged and looking for answers.

Sandusky was convicted last year of 45 counts of sexually abusing children. The former assistant coach, who is nearly 70, is serving what amounts to a life sentence.