[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 10 (Monday, February 2, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S363]
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.
  One such crime occurred in Fort Wayne, IN, on March 29, 2002. John 
Runner, a 34-year-old gay man with disabilities, was found severely 
beaten in his home. He had also suffered substantial burns caused by 
hot bacon grease. Part of his brain had to be removed during emergency 
surgery. Law enforcement agents allege that Runner's cousin and 
roommate, Maurice Ellis, found Runner in bed with another man and an 
argument ensued. Investigators say that Ellis proceeded to beat and 
torture Runner over a 12-hour period. Runner was unable to defend 
himself due to his disability.
  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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