Following the previously reported accusations of sexual assault, Garth Brooks has released an official statement. In it he says that he has been hassled with threats, lies and tales of what his life would be if he didn’t write a check to the alleged victim for “many millions of dollars.”

He went on to say that, to him, paying “hush money” was an admission of guilt and he maintains his innocence. He reiterated that, last month, he filed a suit claiming extortion and for defamation of character. Garth closed by saying, “I trust the system, I do not fear the truth, and I am not the man they have painted me to be.” [courtesy of Elizabeth Wagmeister/CNN]