A Massachusetts man who organized a jersey burning protest after several New England Patriots players took a knee during the National Anthem has received $400 in citations after defying an order from the local fire chief not to burn anything.
NBC Boston reports that Mark Shane, of Swansea, who says he is a lifelong Patriots fan, was upset with the actions of some of the team's players before a recent game and subsequently had signs made up inviting other fans to join him in burning Patriots jerseys and apparel.
Over 75 people took part in Shane's protest Thursday, according to NBC, even though Fire Chief Eric Hajder had warned it was illegal to burn anything in the town other than clean wood. The Swansea Fire Department confirmed Friday that Shane was cited for violating the open burning regulation.
"I think it was a great success," Shane told NBC Boston on Thursday. "I think people were united, I think people love our country, and I think it sends a great message to the NFL and any divisive-type actions will not be tolerated."
Not everyone in the area was thrilled with Shane's protest, including one resident who said, "Quite frankly, I think he's a little bit of an idiot to burn jerseys and think that's what it's all about."
