[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 11 (Monday, February 11, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S586]
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 last 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 July 30, 1992 
in Elk Grove, IL. A gay man was assaulted by two men after being 
invited to go out with them. One of the assailants, Robert F. Braschko, 
19, of Rolling Meadows, was charged with criminal damage to a vehicle, 
battery, and a hate crime in connection with the incident.
  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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