[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 114 (Wednesday, September 11, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S8505]
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 September 2, 
2002 in Shelton, CT. A 42 year old gay man was beaten at a Labor Day 
party. The three attackers made derogatory remarks about the victim's 
sexual orientation and then assaulted him, breaking his facial bones 
and ribs. Police are investigating the incident as a hate crime.
  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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