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This is a copy of the email that I sent to Coach Paterno on November 7, 2011, three days after the charges were filed against Sandusky, and the day before Coach's usual Tuesday press conference.

PREFACE:  This was sent to Coach Paterno before many of the details were known.  We subsequently learned that Coach Paterno may not have known about the 1998 incident at all, and even if he did, as we learned from the report of Jim Clemente, the lack of insight and understanding into the true nature of Jerry Sandusky is a common occurence with "acquaintance offenders."

 

I have included it because I still believe that if these steps had been taken, the entire narrative of the future events would have been drastically different.

Coach:
 
It is with a very, very heavy heart that I write you this letter.  As a proud alum of our University, my life has been filled with joy as I have tried to live my life in a way that would swell thy fame.
 
As an attorney, I like to think I have a little insight in to the process, and I have no question that the steps you took after receiving a report from a graduate assistant, was the proper action in the eyes of the law.  I have no doubt that once an investigation began and you were subpoenaed, that you stepped up and were honest about what occurred.  I don’t doubt that Mr. McQueary did not divulge the details to you of what he witnessed.  I’m sure those details would be hard to discuss with anyone, and particularly embarrassing to discuss with someone of your stature. 
 
But even given all of that, I have to believe in your heart of hearts you knew something was wrong.  You knew about the 1998 investigation, and you had to think that something should have been done in 2002.  While you may have had no legal obligation to make a further report, morally, ethically, I believe you did.  And I believe, looking back on it, you believe you did. 
 
Coach, your university needs you.  All I ask is that when you stand at your weekly press conference tomorrow, and you’re faced with questions about this incident, that you acknowledge that while your legal obligations were fulfilled, your moral obligations were not.  That while you were not aware of the details of the incident, you knew enough that you knew more should have been done.  And that you failed to act.  I truly believe if you acknowledge your failures, apologize to those who were hurt, and ask for forgiveness, that you will receive it. 
 
You have made this university what it is.  I have great fear that all of your accomplishments over the past 50+ years will be tarnished in one moment.  I believe if you take these actions, people will be able to forgive you.  As alumnae, we  will be able to once again be proud of our alma mater, and it’s leader, and we will be able to defend you and your legacy. 
 
Coach, I wish you the best of luck.  I will continue to pray for you and Sue. 
 
God Bless you Coach.
 
Warmest regards,
Joshua D. Fulmer, Esq.  (’01)

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