[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 80 (Monday, June 11, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S6052]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2001

  Mr. SMITH of Oregon. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about hate 
crimes legislation I introduced with Senator Kennedy last month. The 
Local law Enforcement Act of 2001 would add new categories to current 
hate crimes legislation sending a signal that violence of any kind is 
unacceptable in our society.
  I would like to detail a terrible crime that occurred June 13, 2001 
in Santa Maria, CA. Michael ``Mike'' Barry stabbed a gay man, Chris 
Allen Madden, 32, to death. Mike Berry, 21, was charged with murder and 
committing a hate crime. Barry allegedly bragged to friends that he 
``killed a faggot.''
  I believe that government's first duty is to defend its citizens, to 
defend them against the harms that come out of hate. The Local Law 
Enforcement Enhancement Act of 2001 is now a symbol that can become 
substance. I believe that by passing this legislation, we can change 
hearts and minds as well.

                          ____________________