Bench dedicated to memory of queer teen defaced in Bay Ridge

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A person defaced a bench with graffiti containing queerphobic language earlier this month in Bay Ridge. The NYPD is investigating the incident as a hate crime. The bench was painted in the colors of the Pride flag to honor a queer teen who lost their life to suicide. Gay Ridge took to social media to denounce the hatred. “We are a strong part of South Brooklyn and it is important for us to speak up together united to stand against such an egregious acts and attacks on our community.” The NYPD does not have a description of the suspect. Anyone with information is asked to call city’s Hate Crime Task Force by texting ‘Hate’ to the 81136. "