Panthers 'Moving' Statue Of Former Owner Jerry Richardson

CHARLOTTE, NC — The Carolina Panthers are moving the statue of former owner Jerry Richardson on Wednesday from outside Bank of America Stadium, according to the team's official Twitter account.

"We are aware of the most recent conversation surrounding the Jerry Richardson statue and are concerned there may be attempts to take it down," the Panther's tweeted Wednesday afternoon. "We are moving the statue in the interest of public safety."

Richardson chose to sell the team in 2018 after allegations of workplace sexual harassment and racially insensitive language.

The statue was built in 2016 for Richardson's 80th birthday, it features the franchise's former owner with two Panthers on either side of him.

When David Tepper, the current owner, bought the team from Richardson, he said he was contractually mandated to keep the statue in front of the stadium.

During recent protests about the death of George Floyd and racial injustice, a charged debate has reignited about removing statues, often of Confederate figures.

The Panthers did not release any details on long term plans for the statue.

This is a developing story, please check back in for updates.