By Eileen Persike
Editor

In an email sent to the Star Journal Monday afternoon, one of the perpetrators of the Hodag vandalism apologized to the community for his actions. The following is his statement:

To the Citizens and Community Members of Rhinelander,

I was a part of the pair of individuals that took part in the taking of the claws off of the Iconic Hodag on Saturday December the 12^th. I am writing this to apologize to my friends, my family and to all the community members of Rhinelander who have been effected by my actions. What I did was completely wrong and immature, in a lapse of judgement I made a horrible decision. I am embarrassed and ashamed by my actions, I wish I could go back and change everything about that night. I have to take responsibility for my actions and deal with the consequences. I’m going to use this event to change my lifestyle and become a better person. I know some people will forgive me, some people will over time and maybe some might never forgive me, all I want to say is that I am sorry for my actions and will use this to become a better person.

Apologies,

Jordan Henk

According to a post on his own facebook page, Henk turned himself into Rhinelander Police Dec. 18.