CINCINNATI (WXIX) – A man has been arrested after setting fire to pride flags outside of homes in the Clifton and Northside neighborhoods, according to the Cincinnati Fire Department.
Thomas Neihaus, 52, faces four felony counts of aggravated arson after being apprehended by fire investigators following several incidents where he was reported to have purposefully set the flags on fire, the department said.
Security cameras caught several of the arsons, with one piece of footage capturing the man stating he hopes the house burns down and calling the residents homophobic slurs.
“While the acts of this individual sadden us, the Cincinnati Fire Department would like to acknowledge the quick and responsive work of our Fire Investigative Unit,” Fire Chief Frank McKinley said in a statement. “This is a testament to their commitment to bring justice to those involved in criminal activities and to provide the highest level of safety to all Cincinnati residents.”
CFD officials state that the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.
The department also urged residents to report suspicious activity to authorities.
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