Penn State's Joe Paterno retires, says he's 'devastated' over child sex scandal

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2011/11/penn_states_joe_paterno_retire.html
Penn State legend Joe Paterno is retiring as head coach after 46 years in the wake of the Jerry Sandusky sex abuse scandal. Here is the complete statement Paterno released Wednesday morning:

"I am absolutely devastated by the developments in this case. I grieve for the children and their families, and I pray for their comfort and relief.

"I have come to work every day for the last 61 years with one clear goal in mind: To serve the best interests of this university and the young men who have been entrusted to my care. I have the same goal today.

"That's why I have decided to announce my retirement effective at the end of this season. At this moment the Board of Trustees should not spend a single minute discussing my status. They have far more important matters to address. I want to make this as easy for them as I possibly can. This is a tragedy. It is one of the great sorrows of my life. With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I had done more.

Penn State coach Joe Paterno to fans: Pray for these kidsPenn State coach Joe Paterno to fans outside of his house: Pray for the alleged victimsWatch video

"My goals now are to keep my commitments to my players and staff and finish the season with dignity and determination. And then I will spend the rest of my life doing everything I can to help this university."    

• Former Penn State assistant coach Jerry Sandusky was charged in the sexual assault of eight boys. Paterno and university President Graham Spanier have not been charged in relation to the case, but two PSU officials were charged with perjury and failure to report abuse allegations.

Paterno has left his State College, Pa., home this morning without commenting to the media gathered there.

A source close to Paterno said it was the coach's decision to retire and that he has had no contact with the board of trustees.