Federal authorities have charged a man with burning an American flag in the nation’s capital during protests against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress in July.

Summary

Michael Snow Jr., 24, has been charged with destruction of federal property for burning an American flag during protests against Israeli PM Netanyahu’s July speech to Congress.

Demonstrators, opposing Netanyahu’s stance on the Gaza war, removed flags at Union Station, spray-painted a Columbus monument, and raised Palestinian flags.

Federal authorities claim Snow used lighter fluid to ignite the flag. Cleanup and repairs cost over $11,000.

The protest permit was revoked due to lack of organizer communication.

  • themeatbridge@lemmy.worldEnglish
    42·
    14 days ago

    You’re probably thinking of the Flag Code, which isn’t a law but more of a guideline for how to treat the flag with respect. Many military leaders treat the flag code like it is law, but also have a tendency to pick and choose which parts of the code they enforce.

    • LifeInMultipleChoice@lemmy.dbzer0.comEnglish
      84·
      14 days ago

      Nah the flag code is not law in any way, just recommendations. Especially when it comes to civilians. What I want to know is how it was $11,000 in damages. That can’t be the charges against the flag burning, I wonder if they mean cleanup for the protest.

      Like what would they claim? We paid 100 people $100 to sweep the area for 4 hours, and $1000 for a replacement flag?

      Likely paid 10 people $15 an hour for 4 hours, and paid $150 for a new flag. Admin fees. $1000.