One of the people involved in the theft of gay rights flags in Decorah contacts homeowners to apologize

The Decorah Police Department is still investigating the theft of a number of multi-colored gay rights flags from homes in Decorah over the weekend.

The thefts now appear to be the work of teenagers, rather than any hate crime.  That's because one of the teenagers who was involved in the thefts--although as a passenger in the car, not as the driver or flag thief--has now contacted the homeowners to apologize and to promise to buy them a new flag.

Greg Murphy was one of the many Decorah residents who had his rainbow flag stolen Sunday night.  Most of the homeowners felt violated, like this was a targeted act.

Murphy was very impressed when a young man approached his house on Monday, confessing to the theft.  Murphy said, "He was clearly and sincerely contrite about it. He apologized, saying he was with a group of kids and went along with the crowd.  He offered to replace our flag and the other flags that were taken around town.  I was very impressed and thought it was admirable of him.  It seems like it was a high school prank that went a little too far.  It's good it is being resolved in this fashion."

Jarret Johnson was another Decorah resident who had his flag stolen.  "This young man stopped by our house and apologized in front of friends and neighbors we were entertaining.  I explained why the flags suddenly appeared around town (because we needed to support a dear friend who was verbally assaulted) and that kind of support is what makes this town great.  After he made amends, I told him I accepted his apology and looked forward to our replacement flag.   His moral conscience is what impressed me.  He made his rounds about town to each of the vandalisms of his own volition and all before talking to his parents or the police.  We'll see if his friends have a similar moral core," concluded Johnson.