Father urges Valdosta State University protester linked to handgun to surrender

VALDOSTA — As law enforcement continued Wednesday to search for Eric Sheppard Jr., a protester linked to a handgun found on campus Tuesday, the protester’s father, Eric Sheppard Sr., called for his son to surrender.

“Son, you know we love you and have always taught you to do the right thing and make wise decisions,” Sheppard Sr. said from the steps on VSU’s West hall, where he stood with VSU President William J. McKinney. “Please make the right decision and turn yourself in, either to the authorities or to me, and we will handle this together. We love you and are here for you, as you requested.”

Tuesday evening, Valdosta State officials said campus police, who had beefed up campus security following an American flag-bashing protest Friday and a counter-demonstration Monday, found a backpack in front of the on-campus Odum Library Tuesday afternoon that contained a handgun. VSU officials said that a warrant had been issued by an independent judge for Sheppard Jr. after “unmistakable evidence” linked him to the weapon.

Sheppard Jr. had appeared at Monday’s rally in support of the U.S. flag to protest that pro-flag rally by placing two U.S. flags and copies of the Bible and Koran on the ground. Sheppard Jr. blasted white people, Christians and Muslims for their treatment of Africans in media interviews Monday.

VSU officials said there was no evidence that Sheppard Jr. was still on campus and that an extensive search had not located him. Law enforcement, university officials said, believe Sheppard Jr. is in hiding. VSU officials also said the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.

Valdosta State was propelled into international media when protesters Friday trampled the U.S. flag during a demonstration. Michelle Manhart, a military veteran and former Playboy model, was detained by police when she attempted to take the flag away from the protesters.

Monday’s protest was in support of the U.S. flag and plans have been announced for a second pro-flag rally Friday across the street from the VSU campus.