The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) condemns the desecration of a gay pride flag in Tomball and welcomes law enforcement’s investigation of the incident as a possible hate crime.

According to news reports, the flag belonged to a Tomball man who displayed it on his front lawn as a show of support for all affected by the attack on the Pulse nightclub in Orlando.  One flag was allegedly stolen, and a second flag placed in the same spot was taken but returned ripped and desecrated with a swastika.  Reports say the flag was thrown in the man’s yard from a car whose occupants were yelling profanities and anti-LGBT slurs.

“It is sad and unconscionable that someone would desecrate a flag that represents pride and openness with such derision and disrespect,” said ADL Associate Director Dena Marks.  “At a time when we are grieving over the worst mass shooting in U.S. history–a shooting that occurred at an LGBT club–such an act adds insult to injury. We condemn the flag’s desecration.  We are glad law enforcement officers are taking this seriously, and investigating it as a possible hate crime.”

ADL reached out to law enforcement investigating the case to confirm how the crime was being investigated and to advise them of ADL resources that could help.

For more information or to set up an interview, call Dena Marks at 832-975-8310 or via cell at 832-567-8843.