FOXBORO – Patriots owner Robert Kraft released a statement today on the punishment that New England received as a result of the videotaping scandal -- $750,000 in fines and the loss of a first round draft pick in 2008.

“This has been an extremely difficult week for our organization,” Kraft said in the statement. “The most troubling part for me, personally, is the impact these actions have had on our fans. We have spent the last 14 years developing and building a franchise that people could embrace and support. The loyalty of our fans has been the most rewarding aspect of owning the team. I am deeply disappointed that the embarrassing events of this past week may cause some people to see our team in a different light.

“After reviewing the facts of the past weekend, the commissioner (Roger Goodell) has made a determination that our franchise engaged in activities that violate the league's rules. He has determined the punishment and I accept it.”

NFL policy states that, “videotaping of any type, including but not limited to taping of an opponent's offensive or defensive signals, is prohibited on the sidelines, in the coaches' booth, in the locker room, or at any other locations accessible to club staff members during the game.”

Goodell believes that Kraft was unaware of Belichick's action, but determined that penalties should be imposed on the club because, “Belichick not only serves as the head coach but also has substantial control over all aspects of New England's football operations. His actions and decisions are properly attributed to the club,” Goodell said in a statement released by the NFL.

"I believe that coach Belichick always tries to do what is best for the team and he is always accountable for his decisions,” Kraft said in his statement. “He has been a very important part of what our organization has accomplished over the last seven years. In this case, one of his decisions has resulted in a severe penalty for our franchise. He has paid a heavy price and so has our organization. He has apologized for his actions. I accept his apology and look forward to working with him as we move forward.”

Belichick said in a press release about the fine, “I accept full responsibility for the actions that led to tonight’s ruling. Once again, I apologize to the Kraft family and every person directly or indirectly associated with the New England Patriots for the embarrassment, distraction and penalty my mistake caused. I also apologized to Patriots fans and would like to thank them for their support during the past few days and throughout my career.

“As the commissioner acknowledged, our use of sideline video had no impact on the outcome of last week’s game. We have never used sideline video to obtain a competitive advantage while the game was in progress.”

Kraft hopes that the incident won’t taint the Patriots’ image.

“It has been a distinct privilege to be involved in the National Football League since 1994. I am passionate about the league because it represents the ultimate in competition,” Kraft said in his statement. “To this end, the integrity of the game and competition between the 32 teams is of paramount importance to me. Whenever the commissioner believes that the integrity of the league’s competition is compromised, he must act decisively to protect it.

“In addition to our fans, I also feel for our players. I know how hard our players work and prepare for every game and their accomplishments speak for themselves. I look forward to returning all of our focus and energy to the field."