[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 45 (Thursday, March 20, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S4155]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2001

  Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for 
hate crimes legislation. In the last Congress, Senator Kennedy and I 
introduced the Local Law Enforcement Act, a bill that would add new 
categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that violence 
of any kind is unacceptable in our society.
  I would like to describe a terrible crime that occurred August 24, 
2000 in Allentown, PA. A 24-year-old man, Michael Gambler, shot a 15-
year-old at a party after the teen touched him on the arm. According to 
witnesses, partygoers suggested the teen was gay and teased the victim 
and Gambler prior to the shooting. After the teen touched his arm, 
Gambler retrieved a shotgun and shot the victim in the forehead.
  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 is 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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