Janay Rice, wife/victim of Ray Rice, speaks out

Story by the Baltimore Sun

Here's the full statement of Janay Palmer Rice (her Instagram profile is private, but the Baltimore Sun has confirmed that the statement was intended to be made public):

"I woke up this morning feeling like I had a horrible nightmare, feeling like I'm mourning the death of my closest friend. But to have to accept the fact that it's reality is a nightmare in itself. No one knows the pain that the media & unwanted options from the public has caused my family. To make us relive a moment in our lives that we regret every day is a horrible thing. To take something away from the man I love that he has worked his ass of for all his life just to gain ratings is horrific. THIS IS OUR LIFE! What don't you all get. If your intentions were to hurt us, embarrass us, make us feel alone, take all happiness away, you've succeeded on so many levels. Just know we will continue to grow & show the world what real love is! Ravensnation we love you!"

Later, Rice spoke with ESPN's Josina Anderson for the first-known public statement from him after his release and suspension.

Rice said:

"I have to be strong for my wife. She is so strong. We are in good spirits. We have a lot of people praying for us, and we'll continue to support each other. I have to be there for [Janay] and my family and right now work through this."

Then Rice handed the phone to his wife, who told Anderson:

"I love my husband. I support him. I want people to respect our privacy in this matter."