Bias crime charges in theft of Matawan donut shop pride flag

MATAWAN - A 61-year-old man named Maciej Wojciak from Holmdel was arrested for allegedly stealing a pride flag from Main Street Donuts, where he reportedly made a Nazi salute and scuffled with the store's owner, Joe Rizzuto. In addition to theft, Wojciak has been charged with bias intimidation, terroristic threats, criminal mischief, and disorderly conduct.

The incident unfolded around noon on Saturday when an employee informed Rizzuto about the flag being taken. Rizzuto described Wojciak as being dressed similarly to Donald Trump and acting aggressively as he stole the flag, which was on a pole outside the shop. Following the altercation outside, where Rizzuto managed to reclaim the flag, Wojciak returned to threaten to burn down the store and block traffic.

Local police responded swiftly to the situation, later apprehending Wojciak after he fled the scene. Rizzuto detailed how he had taken down Wojciak's license plate and reported it to the authorities, emphasizing his commitment to not letting the incident go unnoticed. He highlighted a previous hate crime incident but stated that he chose to remain quiet back then, a decision he now regrets.

The recent event has resonated with the community, with many showing support for Rizzuto and his husband, Rick Canero. They faced the incident head-on, and their experience has sparked discussions about rising hate crimes nationwide. Data indicates that reported bias incidents have increased both across the U.S. and specifically in New Jersey, with the latter seeing a rise in incidents based on sexual orientation.

In response to the incident, many community members rallied around Rizzuto by promoting his business on social media, leading to overwhelming customer turnout at Main Street Donuts. Rizzuto expressed gratitude for the support, noting how customers, some of whom were new visitors, shared their sympathy and outrage, reflecting a collective commitment to opposing hate within the community.