Possible "straight-bashing" in Palm Springs

A Palm Springs, Calif., man is recovering from an alleged "straight-bashing" after being beaten unconscious Tuesday night, reports KESQ TV, a local ABC affiliate.

Police say the 68-year-old was walking through the Warms Sands and Vista Oro areas of Palm Springs when he was approached by two Hispanic men who asked him if he was gay and if he would like to go home with them. "He expressed no interest in doing that and turned away," said Sgt. Mitch Spike of the Palm Springs Police. "He then felt something hit him, and he then lost consciousness.

"It definitely sounds like a hate crime because anyone who doesn't even know the gay scene knows this is predominately a gay neighborhood," Spike added.

According to the station, other police officers reported the reverse, contending that the man was beat up because he is not gay.

The victim was shaken but is recovering well. (The Advocate)