Sources: Gainey one of the three people in the truck.
By Will Vandervort
Michael Rogers, the father of the of the alleged vandal who damaged Howard’s Rock on June 2, was arrested and charged Friday by the Clemson University Police Department with felony counts of conspiracy and obstructing justice.
Alden Gainey was also arrested and charged with felony counts of conspiracy and obstructing justice in the case of vandalism to Howard’s Rock. The Clemson Insider has learned through sources that Mr. Gainey is a friend of the Rogers’ family and was one of the three people in the truck on the night of the alleged crime.
The two men appeared before a Pickens County Magistrate Friday morning, and each were released on a personal recognizance bond of $7,500.
Friday’s arrests mark the second and third arrest in this case. Micah Rogers, Michael Rogers’ son, was arrested on June 28 and charged with malicious injury to personal property valued at more than $2,000, but less than $10,000; and trespassing, unlawful entry into enclosed places.
Micah Rogers’ case is awaiting trial in Pickens County, which could take anywhere from six to 12 months before it starts.
According to the police report, Michael Rogers, 46, of Pisgah Forest, N.C., conspired with other individuals involved in the malicious damage to Howard’s Rock. On June 20, the defendant planned with Mr. Gainey and others to provide false information when questioned by law enforcement.
On June 24, Michael Rogers met with individuals allegedly involved and instructor or encouraged; and/or intimate them to be untruthful about their actions when questioned by the police. This intentional act did obstruct, impede and hinder the administration of justice.
Mr. Gainey, 17, of Brevard, N.C., provided false statements in the case when questioned by police on June 24.
Police say Howard’s Rock was damaged earlier this summer on the night of June 2. The protective casing was destroyed and a portion of the rock was chipped away. The incident was partially captured by a video surveillance camera.
