A man has been arrested in Appleton after attempting to burn a flag on the first day of Pride Month.
Outagamie County Executive Thomas Nelson explains that at approximately 10:00 a.m. yesterday (June 1st), an unnamed individual removed the Pride flag displayed at the County courthouse.
The Appleton man then proceeded to douse the flag in gasoline and attempted to light it on fire as deputies with the Outagamie County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene.
The deputies were able to prevent the man from lighting the Pride flag on fire, and he was immediately apprehended.
County Executive Nelson continued to say, “Outagamie County has zero tolerance for destructive, hateful, or threatening behavior of this kind. This incident is being taken seriously, not only because of the dangerous nature of the act, but because it targeted a symbol of inclusion, dignity, and support for members of our community.”
In the time since the incident, county crews have already raised a new flag that is proudly flying at the courthouse once again.
Nelson finished by doubling down on his and the County’s support for the LGBTQ+ community, by stating, “Outagamie County will not be intimidated or deterred from showing its support for all residents. As Pride Month begins, the County stands strong in its commitment to fostering a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive community.”
