Critics: Cops targeting gays in Kent County parks

Critics told Kent County commissioners Tuesday that undercover officers are entrapping gay men through casual conversation or arresting them for holding hands.

Attorney Miriam Aukerman of the American Civil Liberties Union says there’s nothing wrong with gay men flirting in a park.

Kent County Sheriff Larry Stelma denied that anyone is being arrested for holding hands. He said deputies are just trying to keep parks safe for everyone.

Michigan law bars someone from using a public place to invite someone to commit a “lewd or immoral act.” Aukerman said that could apply to any bar on weekends.