Hours after President Donald Trump signed an executive order Monday directing prosecution of those who burn the American flag as intimidation, a man was arrested in Lafayette Park near the White House.
U.S. Parks Police said the man was taken into custody around 6:30 p.m. while burning a flag. However, authorities clarified that his arrest was not made under Trump’s new directive. Instead, he was charged with violating 36 CFR 2.13(a)(1), a regulation that bans unauthorized fires in federal parks except in designated areas.
The president’s order, issued earlier in the day, instructs federal agencies to pursue charges against individuals who desecrate the flag in ways intended to incite violence or intimidation. It describes flag burning as “uniquely offensive and provocative” and vows prosecution “to the fullest extent permissible under any available authority.”
Trump said his administration’s goal is to “restore respect and sanctity to the American Flag” while ensuring that anyone breaking laws during acts of desecration faces consequences.