http://66.225.205.104/0414MonroesDegree.mp3
Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Chief Rodney Monroe has still not decided what to do about the tainted degree that he received from Virginia Commonwealth University. Nearly six months ago, Monroe held a press conference to say he wanted to end the controversy surrounding his bachelors that VCU awarded him in 2007. City Manager Curt Walton stood next to a teary-eyed Monroe as he delivered this statement: "I will accept responsibility for moving us forward by exploring various options for removing elements of this back-and-forth debate. What those options are I will continue to discuss with Curt Walton and my family on what is in everyone's best interest," Monroe said. Monroe said going back to school and returning his degree in interdisciplinary studies were two options. But a CMPD spokesman says Monroe still hasn't decided what to do. In addition, Monroe's biography on the city's website still lists his VCU degree even though it's been discredited by a university and a Virginia legislative investigation. Monroe was police chief in Richmond, Virginia, when he was awarded the degree. He only completed six of the 30 hours required of him as a transfer student. The lawmaker who spurred the legislative investigation said Monroe should return his degree and said he failed to meet any of the university's requirements for a degree. Investigations conducted by VCU and state officials did not find evidence that Monroe sought special treatment, but they did find that he benefited from others who broke rules for him. VCU officials have said they can only revoke a degree in cases of a student's academic misconduct. The university has since changed that policy. One VCU dean resigned and another gave his notice in the wake of the scandal. Related Stories VCU creates hotline in wake of degree scandal - Jan. 14, 2009 Monroe silent on degree plans - Jan. 6, 2009 Monroe mum on what to do about degree - Nov. 24, 2008 No degree decision by Monroe yet - Nov. 27, 2008 Monroe addresses degree controversy - Oct. 28, 2008 Virginia lawmaker calls for investigation into Monroe's degree - Sept. 10, 2008