Batavia police probe overnight thefts of Pride flags

BATAVIA – Batavia police received five reports Wednesday of thefts of rainbow Pride flags that were displayed on multiple residences, as well as damage to the flag poles, according to a news release.

These events happened in the overnight hours between Tuesday and Wednesday.

Two thefts occurred in the 500 block of Houston Street, one theft was in the 1200 block of Creek Lane and one in the 600 block of Church Road, according to the release.

The incident in the 600 block of Church Road happened between 1:57 a.m. and 2:03 a.m. and involved broken flag poles and mounts on which the flags were displayed with the flags themselves being stolen, the release stated.

Information about the fifth theft was not available, police spokeswoman Sgt. Michelle Langston said.

The flags were comparable in size to American flags, Langston said.

As to the cost of the losses, Langston estimated the Pride flags cost $15 to $20 each and there were no estimates of damage as of Wednesday afternoon.

Batavia police are actively investigating these crimes.

Police are asking that everyone in the affected areas check their video and security cameras as well, and if any applicable footage is located, to call 630-454-2500.

The city raised a rainbow Pride flag June 6.