REDDING, CA — Days after missing California mother Sherri Papini was found alive along the side of a road, her husband has spoken out in a statement to "Good Morning America" responding to those critical of what he said has been a "torturous journey."
Papini, 34, disappeared Nov. 2 when she went out for a jog in Redding, California, and was allegedly abducted.
On Thanksgiving Day, the Shasta County Sheriff's Office said that the mother of two was released by her captor or captors and had been "located and has been reunited with husband and family."
Sheriff Tom Bosenko said that Papini was "bound with restraints but was able to summon help from a passing motorist."
Her husband Keith Papini said in a statement that he was thankful to those who have supported his wife and their family, including their local community and the Shasta County Sheriff's Department and FBI.
"Thank you to the many incredible humans that have never known Sherri that facilitated in sharing our heartbreak across the globe," he said. "Sherri has always captured my heart, and it is no surprise that she has captured the hearts not only through the country but throughout the world."
Keith Papini also used the statement to respond to those waiting for harrowing details, which he indicated he would not provide, saying that they are a "very private family (who) do not use social media outlets prior to this grotesque tragedy."
"I understand people want the story, pictures, proof that this was not some sort of hoax, plan to gain money or some fabricated race war. I do not see a purpose in addressing each preposterous lie."
Papini described what it was like to see his wife for the first time since she was allegedly abducted.
"Her now emaciated body of 87 pounds was covered in multicolored bruises, severe burns, red rashes and chain markings," he said. "Her signature long blond hair had been chopped off. She has been branded, and I could feel the rise of her scabs under my fingers."
Papini ended the statement by asking that people be sympathetic and understand their wishes for privacy.
The full statement can be read at ABC News.
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