Did Lesbian Couple Fake Hate Crime?

A lesbian couple in Parker, Colorado who claimed to be the victims of a hate crime last October when the home they share was vandalized, have been arrested for false reporting.

Christel Conklin, 26, and Aimee Whitchurch, 37, notified local authorities that the words "Kill the Gay" had been spray painted on the garage of their rented condo and a noose had been left on their doorstep, but police now believe it was a hoax perpetrated by the two women. The women initially informed officers they believed the incidents were retaliation from their neighbors and homeowner's association, who had complained the couple did not pick up after their dogs. Last October after they filed the report both women were tested for spray paint residue on their hands and both later refused to take a lie detector test. Both women maintain their innocence and that a former roommate with a drug history told lies about them.

According to the local news station KDVR-TV, Douglas County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Cocha Hedyen says Whitchurch is facing two counts of criminal mischief, one count of forgery, and one count of false reporting. Conklin faces two counts of criminal mischief and two counts of false reporting. Whitchurch tells ABC's Denver affiliate KMGH-TV that she vows to fight the charges.

"This is a fight I started," Whitcurch says. "This is a fight I'm going to finish. This is a fight I'm right on. I have every right to live where I want to live."

Watch a report on the story below.