FRIDAY UPDATE: Bizarrely, the alleged extortionist was revealed to be CBS News producer Robert Halderman, who has directed dozens of 48 Hours documentaries. He was arrested on attempted grand larceny charges and today pleaded not guilty. Just a reminder that David Letterman’s independent production company Worldwide Pants, which produces CBS’ Late Show and Late Late Show, is not owned by CBS.

8:30 PM UPDATE: CBS has issued this statement:

CBS was made aware of an ongoing police investigation involving David Letterman and an employee at 48 Hours, who was subsequently arrested earlier today on charges of attempted grand larceny in the first degree. CBS is cooperating fully with the authorities and the employee has been suspended pending the results of the investigation. Mr. Letterman addressed the issue during the show’s broadcast this evening, and we believe his comments speak for themselves.

I’ve been given this statement by David Letterman’s people: