Urbana Police Department
400 S. Vine
‘Urbana, Tlinois 61801
Patrick J. Connolly 217(384-2320)
Chief of Police FAX 217(384-2363)
PRESS RELEASE ~ UPDATE
July 4, 2016
On the morning of 7/4/16, the Urbana police department began receiving calls conceming a
Facebook post that portrayed Bryton Mellott, a citizen of Urbana, burning an American flag.
The images and narrative in the post caused some to call and request police action against
Mellott and others to call and express concen for the safety of Mellott and those around him.
Officers viewed the post and saw that there were a rapidly growing number of social media
responses. Many threatened violence against Mellott and his place of employment, which
fielded a large volume of calls regarding the post.
Given the volume of responses and specificity of threat against his place of employment (a
location where an act of violence would likely cause harm to others), prompted police
involvement in this case. After investigating the incident and speaking to both Mellott and his
employer, Mellott was placed under arrest for flag desecration. The police report lists Mellott as
an offender of both flag desecration and disorderly conduct as well as a victim of disorderly
conduct. After consulting with a member of the States Attorney's Office, Mellott was released
from custody and given a notice to appear in court. Mellott’s release was due to questions
about the constitutionality of the 2013 Illinois flag desecration law.
The Urbana Police department recognizes that this is a case where the right of free speech
‘comes into conflict with the safety of uninvolved citizens. The actions taken in this case have
been to try to assure the safety of the public and Mr. Mellott. The Urbana Police urge the public
to express themselves in a peaceful way and to not retaliate against unpopular speech.
Lt. Joel R. Sanders
Patrol Lieutenant
‘Urbana Police Department