Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Buffalo Police have made an arrest after a Somali flag was torn down from a flag pole at City Hall in the early hours of Thursday, July 2nd.
33-year-old Justin Essa of Kenmore is charged with third degree criminal mischief, a felony, and petit larceny, a misdemeanor.
Essa was arrested late Wednesday without incident.
City officials received criticism from residents and local Republican leaders, notably congressman Nick Langworthy and Erie County GOP Chair Michael Kracker, for raising the flag just a few days before Independence Day.
A group called Heal International raised the flag. In a statement released after the flag was stolen, Mayor Ryan mentioned Heal International has been raising the flag "for at least the last four years."
"The flagpoles in Niagara Square are available for use by the public, and over the years a variety of organizations have flown flags there, including those representing Ukraine, Greece, Ireland, Puerto Rico, the Karen community, Italy, Bangladesh, and more," added Ryan.
Police say the theft caused damage to the flag pole's cable and access panel.
33-year-old from Kenmore charged with a felony.
33-year-old from Kenmore charged with a felony.
