[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 16 (Monday, February 25, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S998]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2001

  Mr. SMITH of Oregon. Madam 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 in October 
1999 in Houston, TX. A man was beaten and partially blinded by an 
attacker who believed the victim to be gay. The assailant, Roderick 
Brenneman, 59, was convicted of assault and sentenced to a year in jail 
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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