An Israeli flag was flown outside of a Kings Park diner for months, and this week, it was ripped down by someone wearing antisemitic clothing, according to police.
Police tell News 12 the Hate Crimes Unit is now investigating after a man ripped down a flag outside of Professor’s Diner and then came back to attempt to do it a second time.
Police say the man took the flag down and threw it on the ground on Saturday, and when he came back this morning, he was revving his engine, making obscene gestures at patrons and wearing antisemitic phrases and images.
A customer confronted the man and stopped him from taking down the flag a second time, according to the owner.
Police say after the man was at the diner, he then went to the Kings Park Jewish Center and was revving his engine in the parking lot.
There was a police presence at both locations.
The diner says the flag that has been proudly flown for months isn't going anywhere.
Police say the person involved has been identified and has been transported for a mental health evaluation.