ANNAPOLIS, Md. – A U.S. Naval Academy graduate has been charged with a hate crime and malicious destruction of property after allegedly tearing down an LGBTQ+ pride flag from a tattoo shop in Annapolis. The incident has drawn attention to a series of recent hate crimes across Maryland, sparking conversations about safety, accountability, and community resilience.
The Incident in Annapolis
Charlie Garrett, co-owner of the Dapper Dog Tattoo Shop, reported the vandalism early Friday morning, marking the third time the shop’s pride flag, emblazoned with the phrase “ABIDE NO HATRED,” had been removed. This time, Garrett had installed a security camera, which captured footage of the suspect forcefully ripping the flag from the storefront and discarding it in a nearby trash can.
Police identified the suspect as a Dallas resident who served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2013 and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy. Charging documents detail how a restaurant employee recognized the man from the security footage and provided his name and credit card receipt to authorities.
While the man’s attorney, Caroline Norman Frost, denies any hateful intent, stating, “This is a misunderstanding,” police have pursued hate crime charges, which, under Maryland law, can apply to property crimes if the offense targets a person or group based on protected characteristics.
The tattoo shop’s co-owner, Charlie Garrett, expressed frustration and sadness over the repeated vandalism, calling the incident emblematic of broader intolerance. “This flag represents our values as a business and as individuals. To see it disrespected like this hurts,” Garrett said.
A Broader Pattern of Hate Crimes
The Annapolis incident isn’t isolated. Just days earlier, three additional students from Salisbury University were charged with hate crimes in connection with an assault on a gay man in an off-campus apartment. The attack, which has now led to 15 arrests, involved luring the victim using a fake dating app account, then physically assaulting him while using homophobic slurs. The victim sustained a broken rib and significant bruising.
These incidents come at a time when hate crimes in Maryland are under heightened scrutiny. Carroll County’s recent book bans, many targeting LGBTQ+ themes, and an increase in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric nationwide have created an environment where such crimes feel alarmingly frequent.
The Legal Landscape and Public Response
Maryland law allows for hate crime charges in cases where crimes against property or individuals are motivated by prejudice. In the Annapolis case, the suspect faces both hate crime and property destruction charges, both misdemeanors. Meanwhile, Salisbury University leaders have condemned the assault near their campus, organizing a unity walk to demonstrate support for the LGBTQ+ community and pledging to improve campus safety.
Advocacy groups have called for stronger measures to combat hate crimes, with some pointing to the need for expanded education on diversity and inclusion. “These incidents aren’t happening in a vacuum,” said a spokesperson for Free State Justice, Maryland’s LGBTQ+ advocacy organization. “We need to address the underlying prejudice and ensure meaningful consequences for those who perpetuate harm.”
Community Resilience and Moving Forward
Despite these troubling events, many in Maryland’s LGBTQ+ community are doubling down on efforts to promote inclusion and solidarity. Businesses like the Dapper Dog Tattoo Shop have vowed to continue displaying symbols of support, even in the face of repeated vandalism.
“Our message isn’t going anywhere,” said Garrett. “We will replace the flag as many times as it takes to show that hate has no home here.”
The rising number of hate crimes across Maryland highlights the need for vigilance and community action. While law enforcement investigates and prosecutes these cases, advocates say fostering understanding and standing against prejudice must remain a collective effort.
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Wah
Nothing wrong what he did
It’s called theft and destruction of property. I’m glad they got him. I hope no one thinks thievery or destruction of other’s property is okay.
You forgot to mention that the “victim” in the Salisbury case was attempting to hook up with underage boys via the app.
Yet, ripping down an American flag and burning it, is not a Hate Crime? Perhaps it is similar to the difference between tearing down a Trump sign as a opposed to an Harris sign!
But they can destroy the american flag anytime and nothing it done. This country is so messed up! A hate crime?! Is that a stretch? LMFAO
Destroying property is a crime in all 50 states. Rule of Law is the most important principle written in the Constitution. Nobody is above the law. It doesn’t matter what side of the aisle you’re on. When people don’t follow the laws (Black Lives Matter protesters/January 6th protesters) you have ANARCHY. Respect the Constitution! Respect people’s rights!