"The attorneys for Cedric Benson — Wm. David Cornwell Sr. & Sam Bassett (Minton, Burton, Foster & Collins, P.C., Austin, Texas) have issued a new statement in the Cedric Benson case:

Thomas Crosley, the attorney for Clavens "Miami" Charles, the individual involved in the incident with Cedric Benson this weekend, contacted us yesterday to demand a "settlement" meeting. This attorney stated that if we did not respond within a short period, Mr. Charles would respond to media requests, including a request for an interview from TMZ. We have learned that Mr. Charles' representatives have contacted at least one public relations firm to assist them with publicity.

There is nothing to settle with Charles. In fact, we intend to confront Charles in defending the misdemeanor charges against Cedric. Cedric did not act without provocation.

Cedric regrets the events of this weekend and he is committed to addressing any concerns that NFL teams may have. But, he will do so unburdened by the threat of extortion."