‘We let him down’ — Text of statement by the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.
August 14, 2013 8:08PM
Rev. Jesse Jackson, center, waits to speak to media outside federal court, Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2013, in Washington, after his son, former Illinois Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., was sentenced to two and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to scheming to spend $750,000 in campaign funds on TV's, restaurant dinners, an expensive watch and other costly personal items. His wife Sandra Jackson received a sentence of one year. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)
“The last few months have been difficult and filled with dark days and many low moments for our family.
“Today I speak as a father. I was proud of Jesse Jr. as he stood before the judge and accepted full responsibility for his actions. He was remorseful. He is recovering. He has highs and lows. I have a greater appreciation for it now.
“He turned to us as a family and said that ‘I let you down’ and for that I apologize. I think we let him down, I may have missed the signs and I was apologetic to him.
“I never knew the impact of his bi-polar disorder and now have a greater appreciation for the destruction it has caused and can cause.
“His success may have blurred the sickness. He has been very passionate about his work ... his perfect voting record, voter registrations, the clean water tank in Ford Heights, fighting for the airport in Peotone and speaking in many schools.
“Somewhere along the way the trauma of his sickness has impacted him. A year ago, he would have not had the strength to face the decision. He is not well but is gaining strength. There are days of service in front of him.
“I ask our friends and family to continue to pray for him, Sandi, my grandchildren and our family.
“Thank you.”
