**West Hollywood Pride event marred by arrest of activist with an outstanding warrant; fellow volunteer arrested for interference**
In a dramatic scene at West Hollywood’s annual Pride festivities, police arrested a local activist with an outstanding warrant, drawing the ire of the LGBTQ+ community. Hunter Lee Darling, publicly known as Zodiac Rose, was apprehended on suspicion of an April robbery. His friend, Abby Nicole Thomas, was also arrested after allegedly trying to interfere with the arrest. This incident highlights the tensions between law enforcement and the LGBTQ+ community during Pride events.
Last weekend, West Hollywood was filled with booths and tables celebrating the city’s annual Pride celebrations. Unfortunately, 24-year-old Darling’s participation took a turn for the worse when police recognized him from an April 15 robbery. Darling allegedly stole and destroyed a cell phone outside the West Hollywood Library during a drag queen story hour. The robbery was partially caught on video, leading to his arrest at the Pride event.
Upon his arrest, Darling accused someone of homophobia, creating quite the scene. His ally, Jordan David, claimed police filed “bogus charges” against “3 queer volunteers.” Darling was charged with robbery, vandalism, and battery, and currently remains in custody on a $100,000 bond.
Adding to the controversy, Thomas was also arrested for allegedly attempting to interfere with the arrest. She claimed she was being arrested “for literally no reason” and said she was frightened for Darling. Thomas was booked for interfering and obstructing an arrest and has since been released.
Both Darling and Thomas were allegedly involved in a protest at North Hollywood’s Saticoy Elementary the day prior. Parents
