"Danielle Alonso is grateful to those who have shown a sincere interest in her well-being.

"Each of you should know, Danielle voluntarily returned to Texas to be with her family. You should also be aware that certain individuals have published, and still are publishing, irresponsible and untrue statements about her, her immediate family members and her decision to return to Texas.

"Yesterday, Danielle gave a lengthy statement to law enforcement officials, voluntarily, in the presence of her counsel. There were no restrictions on the questions or answers given. She also voluntarily, and outside the presence of her counsel, met with social services professionals associated with law enforcement, to reassure them that she is safe and free to come and go as she chooses.

"The decision to return to her Texas home and family and to remain there is personal and will remain private. It is her own decision and not the result of any undue influence or coercion. For several days, she has been at home with her siblings, in Texas, while her parents are in Utah meeting with law enforcement. Had she so desired, she could and would have returned to Utah. But that is not her desire at this time.

"Danielle is a mature young woman with an abiding faith in God that keeps her free and strong. She understands the events that occurred, how events can be misunderstood, and why. She understands the actions of well-intentioned law enforcement officials. She also understands the role of politics and the business of the media. She sorely regrets that a purely private matter was misunderstood, and that these misunderstandings have been highly publicized — at the speed of light.

"Danielle, 19 years of age, was overwhelmed by the extent of the coverage of her private life. She chose to speak to private counsel because of the possibility that something more than mere investigation of the facts was afoot. She wanted to be candid but avoid exploitation.

"Danielle now requests the media and law enforcement officials show appropriate respect for her privacy and private decisions. She will not be speaking to the media directly. She requests your understanding at this difficult time."

— Texas attorney Carl Kolb