Proud Boys Leader Arrested for Destroying Church’s “Black Lives Matter” Sign

A Proud Boys leader was arrested over the destruction of a Black Lives Matter sign at a historic Washington, D.C. church. On December 12th, the same night a pro-Trump rally was being held in the downtown area, a sign hanging from the Asbury United Methodist Church building was removed and set on fire. A video of the incident circulated online showing several people participating. Police later determined 36-year-old Enrique Tarrio, chairman of the far-right group, was responsible. He was arrested last night on suspicion of destruction of property and additional gun charges. He may also face hate crime charges. The church is now suing Tarrio and the Proud Boys. Along with burning the sign, the complaint accused Tarrio and eight other members of “engaging in acts of terror and vandalizing church property in an effort to intimidate the church and silence its support for racial justice.” It also claims they “conspired” with other Proud Boys to plan and promote “violent” events throughout the summer and fall.