Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio released after arrest for burning BLM flag during protest

257
SHARE
Enrique Tarrio is the leader of the Proud Boys, a controversial group in the eyes of many Americans. - Photo by Stephanie Keith/Getty Images

Henry “Enrique” Tarrio, the leader of the Proud Boys, has been released by Washington D.C. police after being arrested for burning a Black Lives Matter flag at a protest in December, the BBC reports.

The BLM flag was reportedly burned in close proximity to the Asbury United Methodist Church (A.M.E). In an interview with the Washington Post Tarrio admitted to participating in the flag burning. He also made it clear to the Post that he would admit to the destruction of property charge but denies any involvement in hate crimes.

Indeed, the Proud Boys proved to be one of the most controversial right-wing groups to burst onto the scene in 2020. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Proud Boys are an alleged extremist hate group.

Tarrio traveled to Washington D.C. ahead of a planned protest slated for Jan. 6, coinciding with a highly anticipated Congressional vote which will determine the winner of the 2020 presidential election.

Authorities issued a warrant for Tarrio’s arrest, citing destruction of property. In addition, Washington D.C. police issued weapons charges against Tarrio after two high-capacity magazines were found in his possession. Police have confirmed that the magazines in question were empty.