A gay father arrested after a confrontation with a self-described 'MAGA influencer' who questioned him and his husband about raising a child will not face criminal charges, according to his lawyer.
David Vulin, from West Hollywood, California, was arrested in April following a viral altercation with conservative content creator Ryley Niemi while out walking with his husband, Anthony, and their infant son. Prosecutors have now confirmed that no charges will be filed after Vulin completed a pre-filing diversion agreement with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
The incident occurred on Santa Monica Boulevard when Niemi, who said he was conducting an interview, approached the couple and began asking questions about their family. According to video footage shared online, the exchange became increasingly confrontational after Niemi suggested that gay men were more likely to abuse children and questioned the couple about becoming parents through surrogacy.
Footage of the encounter later showed a physical altercation, during which Vulin struck Niemi. He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of battery and vandalism after allegations that camera equipment had been damaged.
Vulin’s attorney, R.J. Dreiling, said his client had successfully completed the diversion programme and would not be prosecuted. A spokesperson for the district attorney’s office confirmed that charges would not be filed, while a judge has reportedly agreed to seal records relating to the arrest.
AAnthony Vulin
The case attracted widespread attention within LGBTQ+ communities and beyond, with supporters raising more than $200,000 (£150,000) through a crowdfunding campaign to help cover the family's legal costs.
Speaking after the decision, the couple said they were relieved that the legal process had come to an end, but expressed disappointment that those responsible for provoking the confrontation would face no consequences. They also said they hoped the case would spark wider discussion about online creators who generate content through confrontational encounters targeting marginalised groups.
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