A crowdfunding campaign has raised more than $150K to support the legal defense of David Vulin, a gay father arrested after a street altercation in West Hollywood, California.
The incident occurred as Vulin and his husband, Anthony Vulin, were walking with their newborn in a Los Angeles neighborhood.
They were approached by right-wing media personality Ryley Niemi and a camera crew who identified themselves as CNN reporters.
During the encounter, Niemi questioned the couple with claims linking gay men to child molestation and made repeated remarks about their parenting and use of surrogacy. The couple appeared visibly uncomfortable and attempted to disengage. As they walked away, the situation escalated. David Vulin confronted Niemi, shoving him and later striking him. The husband said that David was arrested and released after approximately 12 hours.
Authorities have charged Vulin with a felony count of vandalism, alleging damage to a camera valued at $400 or more. Anthony Vulin has disputed that claim. In a fundraising appeal, Anthony Vulin said the incident has been destabilizing for their family and emphasized the financial strain of mounting a legal defense.
He described his husband as a devoted parent and said their priority is maintaining stability as the case moves forward.
Niemi, in a follow-up video, said he attempted to de-escalate the situation and questioned the couple’s response. However, online reaction has largely criticized the encounter, with many accusing the media personality of provoking the confrontation for content.
