Man Who Tore Down Sayreville Pride Flag Charged With Bias Crime, Authorities Say

SAYREVILLE, NJ — A 64-year-old Sayreville man has been arrested and charged in connection with tearing down a pride flag that was hanging near town hall on June 4, authorities said Wednesday.

According to police, Michael E. Mosakowski entered the area of Veterans Park located behind Sayreville town hall, cut the flagpole rope and removed a pride flag from the pole, damaging the flag in the process.

Mosakowski was charged with bias intimidation and criminal mischief.

The pride flag had only been up for 12 hours before it was torn down, according to Anthony Sposato, the resident who got permission from the town to fly the flag.

Sayreville has an ordinance that states the only flags that can be flown in front of borough hall are the American flag, the New Jersey flag and a POW/MIA flag. However, members of the public can submit an application to have other flags flown for two weeks on the community flagpole, which Sposato did.

"When people ask why we need Pride Month, why coming out matters, why LGBTQ+ people feel unsafe and unwelcome in places, think of this moment, in our borough. In your backyard," said Sposato.

The Sayreville Police Department released a statement noting a commitment to protecting and serving all members of the community.

“We respect the rights of all our citizens regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic. Acts of bias or intimidation have no place in our community, and we will thoroughly investigate any such incidents to ensure everyone feels safe and respected in Sayreville," the statement read.

Initial report: Pride Flag Hung Outside Middlesex County Town Hall Torn Down (June 5)