Naval Academy Graduate Charged with Hate Crime for Stealing and Damaging Pride Flag in Annapolis
A Naval Academy graduate, Benjamin Michael, 44, of Dallas, has been charged with a hate crime after allegedly stealing and vandalizing a Pride flag outside a tattoo shop in Annapolis, Maryland.
Michael was charged in Anne Arundel County District Court with malicious destruction of property and a hate crime. Surveillance footage captured him removing the pastel rainbow flag, which bore the message “Abide No Hatred,” from outside the “Dapper Dog Tattoo” shop on Maryland Avenue around 1 a.m. He was reportedly in town for a Naval Academy football game.
According to police, Michael “forcefully” ripped the flag from its post and discarded it in a red trash can. The Annapolis Police Department stated that Michael’s actions were motivated by bias against the group the flag represents, as documented in charging statements.
The shop owner, Charlie Garrett, revealed this was the third incident of the flag being removed without permission, prompting the installation of surveillance cameras. In response to the incident, Garrett emphasized the shop’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “We will always be a safe place for every human that walks through this door, no exceptions.”
Michael’s court date has not yet been scheduled.
