This archive report was first published on 20 December 2019.
On December 20, 2019, a court in the US handed down a significant sentence to a man who committed a hate crime against the LGBTQ community.
Adolfo Martinez, 30, of Ames, Iowa, was sentenced to 15 years for arson, 1 year for reckless use of explosives or fire, and 30 days for harassment.
Martinez was arrested in June 2019 and convicted in November of the same year.
He admitted to tearing down the LGBTQ flag from the United Church of Christ in Ames and burning it because he opposed homosexuality.
In a disturbing interview, Martinez said, 'It is my honor, it is written, it is a judgment and it is written to execute vengeance on the heathen and punishments upon the people.'
He also stated, 'I wish no harm upon any individual however if you guys are going to bring and forth and address it in such a manner than by all means necessary bring it forth bro, I have God on my side.'
Following his sentencing, Martinez was asked if he planned to fight the charges and he replied, 'No, I’m guilty, I’m guilty as charged, I say it live.'
