ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP, Mich. — The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating damage to a controversial statue in Allendale Township.
Police received a report about it Saturday, but believe the incident happened around 9:50 p.m. on Friday.
According to police, video from a nearby security camera during that time shows a person who “appears to be acting in a manner that would result in damage to the statue.”
There is no description of that person. Police say the video need further enhancement to show identifiable details.
There is no other damage at the memorial.
“We’re trying to identify who is involved and put the pieces together,” said Capt. Mark Bennett. “If in fact there’s enough to substance criminal charges, we’ll certainly have the prosecutor look at it.”
This summer people said the state was offensive and unwelcoming and called for its removal.
The township voted to keep it, but did create a committee to look into future changes.
“If you have strong opinions one way or another, you’re free to discuss those openly and with your elected officials, but the destruction of property, at that particular venue, is a crime,” said Bennett.
Anyone with information is asked to call (616)738-4000 or Silent Observer at (877)88-SILENT.
