Rick Pitino: adultery, abortion, and extortion hurts wife, family
We are hearing words of sympathy for Coach Pitino, his wife, Joanne, and his family. And we should. But our hearts must ache for Joanne Pitino who joins the ranks of wives and mothers tarnished by adultery.
The story of adultery is becoming all too common -- an indiscreet move on the part of their husbands' leaves the families vulnerable. In the world of politics it was Elizabeth Edwards and more recently Jenny Sanford. Love and marriage gone awry.
But what is happening with the Pitino family as a result of the allegations and accusations is reaching disturbing proportions. (See photo at end of the woman who has accused Pitino.)
As the story unfolds, it seems that Coach Rick Pitino, of the University of Louisville, had an apparent consensual sexual liaison. When the woman announced she was pregnant he gave her money for an abortion. But it is alleged that extortion demands escalated.
What is so sad about this case is the number of people involved and hurt – families, a team, a school. Pitino has a wife and five children. It's a mess really for a team that often travels with Pitino's close friend, a Catholic priest.
Statements from U of L: According to USA Today: “U of L Athletic Director Tom Jurich said in a statement Tuesday that ‘Coach Pitino has been truthful with us about this matter all along and we stand by him and his family during this process.’ University President James Ramsey released a statement Tuesday night saying: ‘Several months ago Coach Pitino informed me about the alleged extortion attempt. I've now been informed that there may be other details which, if true, I find surprising. My thoughts are with Coach Pitino and his family. .’" USA Today.com/sports/college/mensbasketball
According to an AP story: "Pitino is Catholic and brings along close friend and spiritual adviser, the Rev. Edward Bradley - a priest in Henderson, Ky. - on many team trips. Bradley often prays with the team before games and is a fixture near the Louisville bench.
"There was no answer late Tuesday at the priest's office where he also lives. " Canadian press/
Catholic priest comment: Did someone really think a Catholic priest would comment? The Ten Commandments are quite clear on this one -- Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery.
But the New Testament also notes, "Let he who is not guilty cast the first stone."
With all the infidelity going around these days, there may not be a lot of stones left to be cast.