A string of similar Pride flag thefts was recently reported in Columbus ahead as the city's Pride March nears. A symbol meant to represent unity is at the center of a string of crimes. Security camera footage shows people stealing"Slightly violated," said Brandon Crabbs, whose Pride flag was ripped from his house. "A little frustrated. Hurt that someone would have the audacity to think that they could try to steal someone’s joy and happiness.
Crabbs lives in Merion Village and said the theft happened early Thursday morning. The person also stole his Pride welcome mat. He wasn't the only person targeted recently. A security camera captured a person stealing a Pride flag from the back of Club Diversity early Friday. Two flags were also stolen from the front of the bar.
"It immediately just made me sick to my stomach," said Calvin Gruszecki, co-owner of Club Diversity. "It’s not okay when things like this happen. Especially when they are just going after the flags, it’s really a hurtful gesture.""We’re just a proud, strong group," said Gruszecki. "We love everybody.""You can’t fight hate with hate," said Crabbs. "Nothing good will come.