Backlash After Gay Couple Called Out For PDA At Pool
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FORT WORTH (CBS11) - A gay couple who says they were told by a pool attendant they could not kiss is now catching the attention of police.
The couple said there were plenty of other straight, couples who were engaged in public displays of affection (PDA)at the Tehama Ridge community pool, yet they were the only ones singled out and told to stop.
"(I felt) singled out and discriminated against. Like I was different than everyone else in the pool and not only that, but (I was) embarrassed," said Brandon Roper.
Brandon Roper and his boyfriend Giuseppe Cellura ended up recording the interaction with the pool attendant, posted it online and that is when the trouble started.
"I think being hush, hush about it and letting it slide and sweeping it under the rug or just letting it go, I don't think that solves anything," said Roper.
Roper left town on a trip and sent the video of the interaction to his Mother, Belinda Roper. She posted it to her community Facebook page and that is when Belinda said the situation turned dangerous.
"I'm afraid for my life. I'm very afraid for my life," said Belinda Roper.
Belinda Roper said several users started making threats. One user even allegedly asked her if she'd like men with guns to show up to the pool.
Belinda Roper called Fort Worth Police which confirms detectives are investigating.
"We should stand up for everybody. Everybody deserves the right to have a free and happy life," said Belinda Roper.
Belinda and Brandon feel they are owed an apology.
"In today's society, if you have that kind of blatant disrespect and bigotry, there are prices to pay," said Brandon Roper.
The company who hired the pool attendant, Bearfoot Management, released the following statement:
"Bearfoot Management and its employees are truly sorry for any actions that have occurred making the family involved in this incident feel they have been treated with any type of disrespect. We have reached out to the family and expressed our sincere regret for the incident that occurred.
Our company's policies are to ensure a family friendly environment at each pool we manage. Our expectation is to enforce this practice without discrimination of any sort. We train our employees to treat each person with love and respect. While we are in the business of pool management, our company takes it upon itself to try to mold the young adults and teens working for us to be responsible and caring adults to help improve the world around us."
The employee no longer works for the company.
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