4 Pride Flag Thefts Prompt Hate Crime Investigation: Batavia Police

BATAVIA, IL — Police received four reports Wednesday morning of Pride flags stolen from outside people's homes, prompting officers to open a hate crime investigation, officials said.

The thefts happened overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday, according to police. Two incidents were reported in the 500 block of Houston Street, while the other two were reported in the 1200 block of Creek Lane and 600 block of Church Road. The Church Road theft happened between 1:57-2:03 a.m., police said.

Damages include broken flag poles and mounts on which the flags were displayed, according to police.

While Batavia police actively investigate the crimes, officers are asking residents in the affected areas to check their security footage and call the department at 630-454-2500 if any applicable footage is found.

Anyone with additional information or any residents who fell victim to the same crime but have not yet reported the theft are also asked to call the station.