Brooklyn man indicted for burning Israeli flag at Columbia protest

A 40-year-old man from Brooklyn, James Carlson, has been indicted for allegedly burning an Israeli flag during a protest at Columbia University in April. The incident occurred when a witness, who identified as Jewish, reported that another protester had taken his flag. Before the witness could reclaim it, Carlson reportedly grabbed the flag and attempted to set it on fire using a lighter. However, the witness intervened and managed to prevent the flag from being fully ignited. The charges against Carlson include criminal mischief and arson, reflecting the serious nature of his actions during a crowded protest. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized that such behavior poses a danger to public safety and will not be tolerated. Carlson has pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on his own recognizance following his arraignment. This incident is part of a larger protest movement that emerged in response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which began to gain traction at Columbia University and spread to campuses across the nation. The protests have sparked significant debate and concern regarding safety and the expression of political views in academic settings. Carlson has a prior legal issue involving unlawful entry into Hamilton Hall, where he also faced charges for damaging property while in custody. The authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of students and community members during protests, working closely with the NYPD and local educational institutions.