Denison family urges community 'Please don't forget Brianna'

The following is a statement the family of Brianna Denison released Saturday after police confirmed she had been strangled by a serial rapist:

"On March 29, 1988 Bridgette and Jeffrey Denison were given the incredible gift of their daughter Brianna. On January 20, 2008 she became the daughter of our entire community.

"On behalf of Brianna's mother Bridgette, her brother Brighton, the entire Denison and Zunino family, we want to thank the Reno Police Department for all of their support, the community of Reno, the devoted volunteers, searchers, the media and everyone involved in the search for Bri.

"This is a difficult time. We ask first that every woman be diligent about their own safety and that each and every one of you protect the women and children in your community.

"We ask once again that if there is anyone out there with information, we beg you to come forward. Now is the time.

"And finally, we want to say that we are grateful for many things. Grateful for all of your actions, thoughts and prayers. Grateful for the gift of Brianna in all of our lives.

Grateful for the joy that she brought us and for the cherished memories of her that are a source of comfort. Memories that give us strength to see beyond our sorrow, sustaining us in spite of our grief.

"Please don't forget Brianna."