Mon Sep 09 16:07:29 UTC 2024: ## Brooklyn Man Indicted for Burning Israeli Flag During Columbia University Protest

**New York, NY** – A Brooklyn man, James Carlson, 40, has been indicted on charges of criminal mischief and arson for allegedly burning an Israeli flag during a protest at Columbia University last spring.

The incident occurred in April during a demonstration related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. According to prosecutors, a Jewish witness reported having his Israeli flag stolen by another protester. Before he could retrieve it, Carlson allegedly grabbed the flag and attempted to set it on fire with a lighter. The witness was able to pull the flag away before it was fully engulfed in flames.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg stated in a statement, “This defendant’s alleged activity went beyond legal and peaceful protest. Committing arson in a crowded protest endangers the safety of others, and this type of behavior will not be tolerated.” Bragg also emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of students, staff, and community members during protests.

Carlson pleaded not guilty to the charges during his arraignment on Monday and was released on his own recognizance. His attorney has yet to comment on the case.

This indictment comes amidst a wave of arrests related to protests across college campuses in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict. While nearly 300 individuals were initially arrested at Columbia and City College, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office dropped charges against most of them in June.

Carlson is also facing charges in a separate case for unlawfully entering Hamilton Hall and allegedly damaging a holding cell at 1 Police Plaza. He has pleaded not guilty to those charges as well.

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