[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 146 (Friday, October 17, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S12832]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2003

  Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for 
hate crimes legislation. On May 1, 2003, Senator Kennedy and I 
introduced the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement 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 in 
Pittsburgh, PA. On April 19, 2002, Adam Bishop was bludgeoned to death 
with a claw hammer by his own brother, Ian Bishop, 14, and alleged 
accomplice Robert Laskowski, 15. As several witnesses testified, the 
killing was because Ian thought his brother was gay. The victim was 
struck by his brother at least 15 times with the hammer and was moved 
to various parts of the home before he was left to die in a bathtub.
  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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