Staten Island Man Erects Replacement 'T' To Replace Trump Statue Torched By Vandals
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A giant American flag in the shape of a T for Donald Trump is going back up on a Staten Island lawn.
As CBS2's Meg Baker reported, the homeowner said it allows him to express more than just his political views.
"It's my right to free speech, just as much as it is your right to free speech, thank you very much," Sam Pirozzolo said.
The new T is a replacement for the original which went up in flames on Sunday morning around 1 a.m. The FDNY concluded that it was arson.
The Pirozzolo family of four was asleep inside at the time, and neighbors were outraged.
"What had happened the other night is disgraceful for the neighborhood, for the country," Dennis Stephens said.
Creator Scott Lobiado was back Tuesday, to resurrect his artwork. He even spoke to Trump about the new sign.
"It's gonna be bigger, it's gonna be huge," he said.
Police were on hand to control the crowds as dozens showed up for the show. Not all were Trump supporters, one protestor drove by and riled the crowd up.
"There's a Hillary supporter over there. God bless you, respect my ability to vote for who I want to," Lobaido said.
"Whether you believe in it or not this is freedom of speech," Joe Crocitto said.
Lobaido had a message for the crowd.
"Neighbors, keep an eye on this baby," he said.
Neighbors said they will be vigilant. Police are still investigating.
