Man cited after allegedly tearing down Pride flag outside candy shop in Doylestown

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- A man was allegedly caught on surveillance video tearing down a Pride flag outside a Doylestown candy shop, marking the fourth time the store has been targeted in recent years.

The video shows a man walking toward Evolution Candy before pulling down the flag displayed outside the building.

Central Bucks Regional Police say the suspect has been identified as James Mellon, 60, of Lansdale. He has been cited on charges including disorderly conduct and criminal mischief.

Shop owner James Lamb said the incident happened shortly after he stepped away from the store.

"I don't know if he waited for me to leave. I don't think so," Lamb said. "If you've seen the video, I can't tell if he has a limp or was drunk."

Lamb said two 10-year-olds witnessed the act and told the man they were going to call police.

The suspect responded, "Call the cops. It's 1 (800) WHO CARES. No gay people," according to audio from the scene.

"You can hear him on the audio saying 'No gay people,'" Lamb says. "Yes, gay people. Yes, people! Just leave people alone. Let them be who they are."

Residents expressed frustration over the repeated vandalism.

"It's very upsetting. Yeah, that's ridiculous. It's 2025. Get over it," said Edna Cannon of Doylestown.

"Live and let live," said Myles Millner of Cape May, New Jersey. "You help your neighbor. You do unto to others as you would have them do unto you. And nobody has the right to impose anything they think on anyone, period."

Lamb said the shop has already purchased a new Pride flag.