Hilton Learns "Bitter" Lesson, Withdraws Appeal

Paris Hilton has acknowledged the "bitter, but important lesson" her recent legal troubles have taught her - and has decided not to appeal the decision to put her back behind bars. The hotel heiress was sent back to Los Angeles' Century Regional Detention Center in Lynwood, California on Friday to finish the 45-day sentence she began last Sunday night - after a judge reversed the decision to allow her to complete the sentence under house arrest. Hilton's legal team were reportedly preparing to challenge Los Angeles judge Michael T. Sauer's ruling, but have dropped the case at The Simple Life star's request. She was jailed for violating her parole following a 2006 drink driving arrest.

In a statement issued Saturday night, Hilton says, "Today I told my attorneys not to appeal the judge's decision. While I greatly appreciate the Sheriff's concern for my health and welfare, after meeting with doctors I intend to serve my time as ordered by the judge. This is by far the hardest thing I have ever done. During the past several days, I have had a lot of time to reflect and have already learned a bitter, but important lesson from this experience. As I have said before, I hope others will learn from my mistakes. I have also had time to read the mail from my fans. I very much appreciate all of their good wishes and hope they will keep their letters coming." And Tmz.com alleges the 26-year-old is on the verge of a nervous breakdown - she is reportedly on suicide watch in the medical ward of the L.A. jail.