Cabarrus Today

Concord, Oct 9, 2023 - The City of Concord is reeling from the recent act of vandalism perpetrated against the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Monument on Cabarrus Avenue. Mayor Bill Dusch expressed outrage at the incident, stating, “The Martin Luther King Jr. Monument is a symbol of hope and justice, and the desecration of this cherished memorial has no place in our city.”

The vandalism was reported to the Concord Police Department on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at approximately 11:34 p.m. An unknown individual or group spray painted the monument, prompting swift action from city officials. The monument, owned and maintained by the City of Concord, is currently undergoing restoration efforts by city crews.

The City’s Buildings and Grounds Department worked tirelessly through the night to clean the monument. While progress has been made in removing the paint from the polished granite surfaces, further work is required on the natural granite surfaces. Consequently, the monument is currently covered and protected until the cleaning and restoration process is fully completed.

In light of the incident, Mayor Dusch called on the community for assistance, stating, "We implore anyone with information to contact police." Those who may have relevant information are encouraged to reach out to the Concord Police Department at 704-920-5000. Alternatively, individuals can choose to remain anonymous by contacting the Cabarrus Area Crime Stoppers at 704-93-CRIME.

The City of Concord remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving the integrity of the Martin Luther King Jr. Monument and upholding the values it represents.