[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 120 (Friday, September 20, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S8979]
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 February 11, 
2001 in Rifle, CO. Kyle Skyock, 16, was found unconscious on the side 
of a road after being beaten by four teenage boys who believed he was 
gay. Skyock's injuries included a fractured skull, burns, three broken 
ribs, and a bruise described by doctors as being in the shape of a two-
by-four. During the beating, the assailants made derogatory comments 
about the victim's perceived sexual orientation.
  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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