Early Saturday morning, Clinton police officers learned that the monument was partially pulled over the monument, according to the Sampson County Sheriff's Office.
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After seeing an increase in peaceful protest within the county, last Tuesday, the Clinton City Council adopted a resolution urging county leaders to explore options to remove the monument from county-owned land.
The city hopes the resolution promotes "racial equity and justice."
According to Lt. Marcus Smith, the Sheriff's Office is actively investigating the vandalism as a criminal incident.
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"Make no mistake, as a Sheriff's Office we will not tolerate lawlessness and will work closely with the city of Clinton and the District Attorney's Office to seek full prosecution for those responsible," Smith said in a news release.
Anyone with information on the vandalism is asked to contact the SHeriff's Office at (910) 592-4141.
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