In a significant development from our community, the Arlington County Police have successfully apprehended two individuals linked to the recent spate of Pride flag thefts that have marred our neighborhood’s sense of security and pride. This series of thefts, which began in September last year and persisted until January this year, involved the brazen removal of Pride flags from residences in the 200 block of S. Courthouse Road.
The culprits, identified as 20-year-old Matthew Henshaw from Fort Myer, VA, and 23-year-old Joseph Digregorio from Bay Shore, NY, were nabbed after a meticulous investigation by the Property Crimes Unit of the Arlington County Police Department. Henshaw faces charges including three counts of Unlawful Entry with Bias Motivation and three counts of Petit Larceny, relating to thefts on September 16, September 30, and January 27. He has since been released on a secured bond. Meanwhile, Digregorio has been charged with one count of Petit Larceny for a theft on January 21 and was released on a summons.
The arrests followed a detailed inquiry involving the review of evidence and interviews with witnesses, highlighting the department’s commitment to upholding justice and safeguarding the community’s values. The investigation into these incidents remains ongoing, and local authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward and assist by contacting the Arlington County Police Department’s Tip Line.
This series of thefts, targeting symbols of LGBTQ+ pride, has sparked concern among community members, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and solidarity in the face of bias-motivated crimes. The police’s swift action in these cases sends a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated in our community.