The following is a statement from Fishers High School Principal Scott Syverson. It was given to the news media on Dec. 31, 2007, by his attorney.

"On December 22, 2007, I made critical and unacceptable errors in judgment. I would like to sincerely apologize to everyone who has been impacted by my terrible decisions on that evening. Particularly, I want to say 'I'm sorry' to my family, friends, students, staff, and the Fishers community for my poor behavior.

"This situation is not, and has never been, the result of an error made by the Fishers Police Department. The Fishers Police Department and several outstanding people, whom I know and respect greatly, were put in compromised positions by my actions. I want to be clear that under no circumstances should I have ever ... placed officer Kobli and his superiors in this situation. Officers Kobli, Dunbar and McFarland are not only outstanding officers, but more importantly, great individuals.

"I am profoundly saddened and disappointed because I could have made far better choices and failed to do so. I have spent my entire educational career leading by example, always doing what is best for my students, staff and community. In this instance, I failed to do so. I have always talked with students and others about the importance of high standards and making good decisions. In this instance, I failed both expectations. I have worked tirelessly to be a good role model and be a person of good character. Once again, I failed to follow my own guiding principles. I sincerely apologize to the Fishers family for not doing the right thing and more importantly, not meeting their expectations as principal of Fishers High School.

"I make this statement today as a first step towards being a better person, father, husband, friend and administrator. In addition, I am evaluating my own formal education around the topic of alcohol in order to be an effective advocate; I want to help others make better decisions and learn from my poor choices. I must and will take full responsibility for my actions and do what is right from this day forward.

"As I move forward, I want everyone impacted by my critically poor judgment to know that I will never put them in this situation again. No matter the outcome for me personally, I will be a better person in the future. I have spent many years building a reputation of good character, strong leadership, and for being a respected role model. I can only hope that the poor decisions I made on December 22 will not erase the years of good service in education and my reputation as a person of good character. I can only promise that I will never compromise my values from this day forward.

"Finally, I do want to thank the students, parents, staff, and friends who have supported me during this past week. It has been a very difficult time for me and my family. Your kind words and encouragement have been greatly appreciated."