Statement from the Atlanta Police Department on Swift Arrest in Pride Flag Vandalism Incident

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Case: 251750175

The Atlanta Police Department is committed to protecting all members of our community and upholding the values of respect, safety, and inclusion. On June 24, 2025, at 1:40 am, officers responded to 991 Piedmont Ave NE regarding a vandalism call.

According to witnesses, six males were observed causing a disturbance in the area of Piedmont Ave and 10th St. Upon arrival, officers learned the males were stealing Pride flags and then cutting them up using a knife. Upon spotting officers, the six males fled the scene on motorized scooters. Thanks to the rapid response of our officers, four of the six males were apprehended.

Preliminary investigation revealed the males coordinated and drove to Atlanta from the Dallas and Cartersville, Ga areas. The arrestees were identified as: 

Juvenile Arrestee: age 16 out of Taylorsville GA,

Logan Matthison: DOB 11/06, from Dallas GA,

Geami Mccarroll: DOB 8/07, from Dallas, GA,

Ahmed Mechkouri: DOB 4/07, from Dallas GA. 

They were all charged with: Obstruction, Criminal Damage to Property, Conspiracy, and Prowling with an additional pending charge of a Hate Crime. 

Mr. Aaron Petrus (DOB 08/83), the father of the juvenile arrestee, was issued a citation from officers for failing to supervise his son. 

We extend our sincere appreciation to the citizen who witnessed the incident and promptly reported it. This case serves as a reminder: if you see something, say something. Together, we can continue to build a safer and more inclusive Atlanta for everyone.

This investigation remains active and ongoing.

Please keep in mind the above information is preliminary in nature and can change as the investigation progresses and new information comes to light.