Below is a statement by Bert Westervelt provided to W5, in reaction to W5's story airing January 23. 

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There is much to say but unfortunately I have been advised by my lawyer that as this is still possibly before the courts I must respectfully decline.  What happened to her was a very unfortunate tragedy and I miss Arlene very much, but I will not dignify her sister's lies and slander about me with even a response.  

I would also simply ask that you please put in the due diligence to verify some of the ridiculous stories circulating from Arlene's sisters rather than publishing lies and slander.  If there was any truth to their stories then I would obviously still be charged.  However, the charges were dropped, because I did not commit any crime.

Bert