A Burning Question About Flag Desecration

David Catron, The American Spectator

Flag burning is almost always accompanied by violations of existing laws. If someone sets a

flag — or anything else — ablaze in the street or public park, they can be arrested for violating open burning restrictions or arson. Anyone causing property damage while burning a flag can be prosecuted, particularly if the destruction occurs on private or restricted government property. Finally, if a flag burning is conducted in a manner intended to incite violence or that amounts to “fighting words,” the perpetrator is subject to arrest.