[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 88 (Thursday, June 27, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S6236]
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 in August 
2001 in Monmouth County, NJ. Seven people assaulted a 23-year-old 
learning disabled man with hearing and speech impediments. The victim 
was lured to a party, bound, and physically and verbally assaulted for 
three hours. Later, he was taken to a wooded area where the torture 
continued until he was able to escape. The perpetrators were sentenced 
on multiple counts in connection with the incident, including 
aggravated assault and harassment by bias intimidation.
  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 and changing 
current law, we can change hearts and minds as well.




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