CHAPEL HILL, N.C. -- While the state holds its breath wondering what will happen to Silent Sam, one member of the UNC Board of Governors says Sam's fate is not up for question; it must go back. 

  • Thom Goolsby says Silent Sam must be reinstalled within 90 days, according to state law.
  • Goolsby calls for the prosecution of the protesters who tore the statue down.
  • Says police response was unacceptable. 

Attorney and UNC BOG member Thom Goolsby, who is also a graduate of UNC Law School, released a video statement Thursday saying the statue must be restored according to NC General Statue 100-2.1(b).

 

 

According to Goolsby, the statute says Sam must go back within 90 days of its removal (see statute below).

ยง 100-2.1. Protection of monuments, memorials, and works of art

Goolsby goes on to demand the prosecution of the protesters who pulled the statue down.

RELATED: Timeline and history of the Silent Sam controversy

"We must find and prosecute the criminals with committed felonious destruction of property on the UNC Chapel Hill campus," said Goolsby. "The police stand down is unacceptable and is being investigated. The responsible parties must be held accountable for their dereliction of duty."

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