Why would the lawyer be charged? Hasn’t it been established that burning a flag is considered free speech in this country?

Idk what to think. Don’t even have an opinion, just here to save people from annoying news websites

James Carlson, a Brooklyn lawyer and activist, on charges of arson and criminal mischief. Prosecutors said he ignited an Israeli flag with a lighter and destroyed a camera in jail. They say he also broke into a university building, for which he faces a separate case. “This defendant’s alleged activity went beyond legal and peaceful protest,” Mr. Bragg said in a statement announcing the charges against Mr. Carlson, 40, an attorney from Park Slope. “This type of behavior will not be tolerated.”