![]() ![]() The harsh sentence elevated the local crime story to international prominence, and created quite a stir on social media. Story County Attorney Jessica Reynolds said the hate crime charge stemmed from the fact that authorities believe Martinez burned the flag because of “what it represents as far as sexual orientation.” The harsh sentence is mostly due to the hate crime charge, which is a class D felony. He was sentenced on Wednesday to 16 years behind bars. Flag burning is legal in the United States based on Supreme Court rulings that it is constitutionally protected speech under the First Amendment. Especially when you consider burning an American flag is not considered a hate crime. Martinez admitted to burning the flag and was found guilty last month. Regardless of the chosen sentence, 6 years, 15 years, or anything in between seems a bit much for burning a flag. He had also threatened to burn down the club. Martinez later burned the purloined flag, doused with lighter fluid, outside the Dangerous Curves Gentleman’s Club, which had actually been kicked him out earlier that day. He was arrested after police said he stole a pride banner hanging at the Ames United Church of Christ on June 11. Stealing a Pride banner from a church and burning it outside a local strip club has landed an Ames, Iowa resident in prison for sixteen years, on hate crime charges.Īdolfo Martinez, 30, has been found guilty of a hate crime, third-degree harassment and reckless use of fire for stealing.
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