One of the people charged in the national college admissions cheating scandal is Mark Riddell, a director at the IMG Academy in Bradenton. He's now been suspended from the school following allegations that he took exams for students and helped them cheat on SAT tests.
Riddell now says he made a big mistake. Through is Tampa attorney's office, Riddell has released a written statement, apologizing for his role in the scandal. He also denies he ever bribed anyone.
Here is his complete statement:
"I want to communicate to everyone that I am profoundly sorry for the damage I have done and grief I have caused those as a result of my needless actions. I understand how my actions contributed to a loss of trust in the college admissions process.
I assume full responsibility for what I have done. I do, however, want to clarify an assertion that has arisen in the media coverage. I absolutely, unequivocally never bribed anyone, nor has the Information filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office charged me with any form of bribery.
I will always regret the choices I made, but I also believe that the more than one thousand students I legitimately counseled, inspired, and helped reach their goals in my career will paint a more complete picture of the person I truly am.
I will not be making any further public comments on the matter."
(Photo: Sharon Parker, NewsRadio WFLA)