Niles man says he was beaten apparently because he was gay

WARREN — A 40-year-old Niles man reported that he was beaten by a man Dec. 16 in Up A Creek tavern, apparently because he is gay. The victim reported the incident Friday night.

The man said he was in the tavern promoting his business and handing out business cards when someone from behind him said, “Get away from me.” He ignored the remark, thinking the person was not referring to him, and the person repeated it.

The third time, the man used a derogatory term just before he punched the victim in the face twice and then kicked him in the head and face numerous times after the victim reportedly fell to the floor.

A Warren police officer observed several scratches and bruises on the man’s head and face. No arrest has been made.