A man was arrested on Thursday for allegedly threatening to destroy a Pride flag displayed at Derby Street Shops, a high-end retail location in Hingham, Massachusetts. Gage Scammell, a 29-year-old from Weymouth, was taken into custody after leaving a voicemail stating that he would shoot down and burn the flag if it was not removed from the flagpole within three days.
The incident was reported to the police by the management of Derby Street Shops, who had received a voicemail from Scammell making the threat. In addition to the threat to the Pride flag, Scammell also used derogatory language regarding the Jewish faith, according to authorities.
Hingham Police Chief David Jones released a statement in support of the LGBTQ+ and Jewish communities, stating that his department will not tolerate any threats or discrimination against them. “Hingham is a welcoming and accepting community,” Jones added, “and we will continue to work with our local stakeholders to ensure that our town is safe and inclusive for everyone.”
Scammell has been charged with interference with civil rights, threatening to carry or use a deadly weapon, and threatening to commit a criminal offense. He was arraigned in the Hingham District Court.
This incident is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for acceptance and inclusivity that the LGBTQ+ community faces, even in seemingly tolerant communities. The threat against the Pride flag highlights the importance of visibility and representation, as well as the need for continued advocacy and protection of LGBTQ+ rights.
The response from the Hingham Police Department and the management of Derby Street Shops is a positive step towards creating a safe and accepting community for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. However, incidents like these serve as a reminder that there is still work to be done to ensure that everyone is able to live their lives without fear of discrimination or violence.