[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 174 (Friday, December 14, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S13291]
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 in March of this 
year. 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 describe a terrible crime that occurred January 14, 
1993 in Macon, GA. Elizabeth Davidson, a 25-year-old lesbian, was 
fatally shot in a bar. The attacker, Deion N. Felton was charged with 
murder in connection with the crime. An accomplice, Shawn Hightower, 
16, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit aggravated assault. Felton 
and Hightower allegedly were engaged in a plan to rob homosexuals at 
the time of the killing.
  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.

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