Governor Supports Rutgers Athletic Director's Resignation, Do You?

Tim Pernetti's resignation is "appropriate and necessary" Gov. Chris Christie said Friday.

The governor thanked Pernetti for his contributions as athletic director of Rutgers University, and said university president Robert L. Barchi made the right leadership decision in seeking new leadership for the athletics department.

“This entire incident was regrettable and while it has damaged the reputation of our state University, we need to move forward now on a number of fronts which provide great opportunities for Rutgers’ future," Christie said, in a prepared statement.

Rutgers released a letter of resignation today from Pernetti to Barchi in which he said that he'd seen video of Rice verbally and physically abusing players, brought his findings to Barchi, and recommended that he be let go. 

"As you know, my first instincts when I saw the videotape of Coach Rice's behavior was to fire him immediately. However, Rutgers decided to follow a process involving university lawyers, human resources professionals, and outside counsel. Following review of the independent investigative report, the consensus was that university policy would not justify dismissal. I have admitted my role in, and regret for, that decision, and wish that I had the opportunity to go back and override it for the sake of everyone involved," said Pernetti in his letter. 

To read the whole letter, click HERE.

We want to know if you support the firing of Pernetti as a result of this incident. Tell us in the comments below.