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Penn State Takes Down Paterno Statue

Penn State University's president has ordered the removal of the Joe Paterno statue outside the school's football stadium.

In a statement released online Sunday morning, PSU President Rodney Erickson said, "Coach Paterno's statue has become a source of division and an obstacle to healing in our university and beyond."

The statue became the focal point of public debate after an independent investigation lead by Former FBI Director Louis Freeh alleged that Paterno covered up accusations of child sexual abuse against his assistant football coach, Jerry Sandusky, more than a decade ago.

Erickson said he's aware his decision will be unpopular in some "Penn State circles," but said the statue would be a "recurring wound" to victims of child abuse nationwide if it were to remain standing.

Erickson wrote the statue would be stored in a secure location. The monument was erected in 2001 to honor Paterno for attaining the most victories in Division I college football history.

However, Penn State's "Paterno Library" will keep its name. Erickson said the library will remain "a tribute to Joe and Sue Paterno's commitment to Penn State's student body and academic success."