Thursday July 2, 2009
An apology for theft of signs

From: http://www.news-gazette.com/news/opinions/print/letters/2009/07/02/an_apology_for_theft_of_signs/

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I have been charged criminally with the June 13 theft of the "Beyond the Chief" art display at the Native American House.

While the case has not yet been resolved in court, I admit my culpability and would like to apologize for my behavior.

I am taking responsibility for my conduct and will accept whatever punishment awaits me. My conduct was extremely out of character, and people can be assured that nothing like it will ever happen again. While it is no excuse, I had been drinking the night of the incident and made an extraordinarily poor decision.

I meant no disrespect to the Native American House, its members or Native Americans in general. I have no animosity towards them in any way, and there was no political or any "anti" anything message in my action.

It was just my poor decision. I actually very much admire the signs and think that they are impressive. I am pleased the signs were returned, and I regret any hardship that my actions may have caused.

MARK NEPERMANN

Urbana