US reporter's family 'elated' by release in Iraq

BOSTON, Mar 30 (Reuters) The family of kidnapped American reporter Jill Carroll said it was elated by her release today after nearly three months captivity in Iraq and expressed solidarity with the families of other hostages.

''Our hearts are full. We are elated by Jill's safe release,'' family members said in a statement read by editor Richard Bergenheim of The Christian Science Monitor, her employer. ''Our thoughts are with the families of others still being held hostage in Iraq and we hope that their loved ones will return safely to them soon.'' More details of Carroll's experience would be released at an appropriate time, the family members said. They asked that their privacy be respected while Carroll recovers.

Bergenheim said there were no negotiations before Carroll's release and he had no knowledge of any US military involvement in it.

REUTERS SB RAI2110