The man who drew complaints for posting offensive signs outside of a Bethlehem motel has died

LACONIA — The man who drew complaints for posting offensive signs outside of a Bethlehem motel has died. Laconia Police reported that 39-year-old Ryan Collins died on Jan. 25. Collins was at the center of a pitched free-speech battle in Bethlehem two and a half years ago. On the weekend of July 4, 2021, Collins hung a flag outside his roadside apartment at the Pinewood Motel that read “F*** Biden. And F*** You For Voting For Him.” The motel owner attempted to remove the sign but was overruled by Bethlehem Police, who deemed it protected free speech. Collins was a habitual offender with a string of felony convictions. Laconia Police did not provide information on the nature and whereabouts of Collins’ death, citing an ongoing investigation.