Roanoke Rapids Mayor Emery Doughtie apologized Thursday night for controversial Facebook comments attributed to his wife.
Doughtie said the remarks were targeted at Black people living near their home.
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Doughtie addressed the issue during a City Council meeting, saying his wife, Yvonne, made the comments, which circulated locally last week. He asked the community for forgiveness.
The mayor said he continues to support his wife, but several residents at the meeting called for him to resign.
Doughtie said he does not plan to step down and intends to serve out the remainder of his term.
Council members also read a statement condemning the comments.
WRAL has not been able to independently verify screenshots of the purported Facebook post.