Mitchell Hamilton Turns Self In After American Flag Burned In Vail
VAIL, Colo. (CBS4) - Vail police say the man wanted for questioning about a burning American flag has turned himself in. Mitchell Hamilton, 22, is from Eagle-Vail.
Investigators say Hamilton surrendered on Tuesday afternoon after his friends told him they saw retaliatory social media posts toward Hamilton for his alleged actions.
Hamilton is now charged with second degree arson and criminal mischief for burning someone else's property. The flag was burned early Monday morning outside of a business on Bridge Street.
The police department makes clear the charge does not reflect Hamilton's First Amendment right.
"The Vail Police Department respects and protects all citizens' ability to express their First Amendment rights," they said.
Police say the fire could have easily spread to the building or adjacent property. Police did not release a motive.
