Clemson Police Arrests NC Teen for Vandalizing University's Famous "Howard's Rock" (UPDATE)
ByClemson University police have arrested Micah Rogers of Pisgah Forest, N.C., in relation to the Howard's Rock vandalism case. Rogers, 18, is charged with one felony and one misdemeanor - malicious injury to real property and unlawful entry into enclosed places.
The rock is affixed atop 'The Hill' in the east endzone of Clemson's Memorial Stadium. It has been a pre-game tradition and a good luck charm for Clemson tigers and coaches to rub the iconic fixture before each home game.
Capt. Eric Hendricks said that Rogers jumped the fence to gain access to the rock. Hendricks also said that as far as their knowledge goes, Rogers has no connection with the university.
The suspect's truck, which was captured in the video surveillance cameras, is described to be a 1993 Ford F-250, and has a Clemson sticker on it. The police also discovered Clemson memorabilia in his home.
Rogers was identified as a suspect by a witness. The portion of the rock that was chipped away has not yet been rescued and the investigation is in progress.
Rogers appeared in Clemson University Municipal Court yesterday and was released on a bond of $5,470.
"On behalf of the athletic department and the football coaches and players, I want to thank the Clemson University Police Department, the State Law Enforcement Division and the Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor's Office for acting in a swift, thorough manner with regards to the vandalism to Howard's Rock," said Clemson Athletic Director Dan Radakovich. "We appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in this case."