In an exclusive audio statement given to CNN, the mother of a 16-year-old girl raped in Steubenville, Ohio, talks about her daughter's future, the crime, and her message to other parents.
Here is what she told Poppy Harlow:
“My family and I are hopeful that we can put this whole ordeal behind us. We need and deserve to focus on our daughter's future. We hope that from this something good can arise. I feel I have an opportunity to bring an awareness to others, possibly change the mentality of a youth or help a parent to have more of an awareness to where their children are and what they are doing. The adults need to take responsibility and guide these children. I ask every person listening, what if this was your daughter, your sister or your friend? We need to stress the importance of helping those in need and to stand up for what is right. We all have that option to choose. This is the start of a new beginning for my daughter. I ask that you all continue to pray for her and all victims and please respect our privacy as we help our family to heal. Thank you.”
For more on the case, read Steubenville, weary of investigation, faces new probe