Email citing Paterno brings defense of late coach

HARRISBURG, Pa. — Details from a decade-old email are raising new questions about Joe Paterno’s response to a sex abuse complaint regarding former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky, but a Paterno family spokesman says he’s not worried about the impact on the late coach’s legacy.

Family spokesman Dan McGinn said Tuesday that Paterno never directed him to protect his legacy or clear his name. McGinn says Paterno believed his record would speak for itself.

The Paterno family wants all emails and records related to the Sandusky child sexual abuse scandal to be released.

CNN has reported that an email by the school’s athletic director in 2001 indicates he changed his mind about going to child welfare authorities after speaking with Paterno.

Sandusky awaits sentencing after being convicted last month of 45 counts.