Case closed for

noose found on campus
By Melanie Davis
Melanie@mountaintimes.com

The case is closed without criminal charges in reference to a noose found on the campus of Appalachian State University on Feb. 8.

The noose was reported at 6:30 p.m. by a student as being displayed in Chapel Wilson Hall, an academic building on campus.

The noose was removed from the campus and an investigation was launched by the ASU police department.
“It was clear where the noose came from,” said ASU police chief Gunther Doerr, though no other details were provided.

Upon completion, the investigation report was submitted for review to the Watauga County District Attorney's Office. It was determined that no crime had been committed and no charges were filed in the case.

“A noose is widely recognized as a symbol of racial intolerance and hate; therefore, we have taken this incident very seriously, collecting all necessary information with the help of the University Police and the Watauga County District Attorney’s Office in order to ensure the appropriate handling of the matter for all concerned,” ASU Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock said.

Peacock said internal actions have been taken in response to the incident, but declined to provide details due to North Caroline personnel statutes.

Prior to the closure of the investigation, Peacock sent a communication to students, faculty and staff, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity.

A task force was created in 2007 to develop an approach to diversity on campus, and make “inclusive excellence a priority for Appalachian and … will provide a blueprint for preparing our students to thrive in an increasingly diverse world,” his statement said.

“Although the assistant district attorney has determined that no crime has been committed and no charges will be filed, as chancellor I want to underscore our deep and abiding commitment to diversity on this campus, and to fostering an environment of trust and confidence where everyone in our entire community feels welcome, safe and included,” he said. “Sometimes our actions are a result of not thinking about the impact on others. We must remember that harmful effects of a perceived insult or act of discrimination can be the same whether it is intended to or not.”