VALDOSTA — Valdosta State University president William McKinney hosted a press conference at 6 p.m. on Tuesday.
President McKinney explained to the press that protestor and student, Eric Sheppard has abused his rights of free speech and protest by threatening others.
According to the Spectator, President McKinney said, “When speech becomes threatening, when weapons become involved, that’s no longer protected.”
Earlier today president McKinney released this statement,
“Dear Valdosta State Students, Faculty, and Staff:
Much has been written and spoken about our university in the past several days. What is written in subsequent days and weeks will in large part depend on our actions and our values as an institution of higher learning.
Ours is a university that values our students as the core of our mission.
Ours is a university that values civil discourse and debate, even in the midst of great disagreement.
Ours is a university that values free inquiry and research.
Ours is a university that values our veterans and active duty military personnel.
Ours is a university that values our community, city, region, state, and country.
Therefore, as president, I am asking that each and every one of us dedicate Friday, April 24, 2015, as a Day of Reaffirmation. In all that we do, on campus and off, let us reaffirm those values that have made VSU a great institution for well over a century. I am, therefore, canceling my State of the University Address scheduled for that day. Instead, I am asking that as individuals, or in groups large or small, we reflect upon and reaffirm our core values in all that we do.”
VSU students, faculty and staff received an alert around 2:45 p.m. stating that VSU police found a book bag containing a handgun.
The VSU police reported that the handgun was linked to protestor, Eric Sheppard. An arrest warrant has been filed for Sheppard at this time.
Police have not been able to locate Sheppard, but reported that he is armed and dangerous. Police believe he is off campus and in hiding.
With any information regarding Sheppard’s whereabouts please contact University Police at 229-333-7816 or 911.
“Campus is open, classes are running on schedule, the university is safe but we ask you to be vigilant at this time,” President McKinney said.
