Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act of 2005

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2005

Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for hate crimes legislation. Each congress, Senator KENNEDY and I introduce hate crimes legislation that would add new categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society. Likewise, each Congress I have come to the floor to highlight a separate hate crime that has occurred in our country.

On February 13, 2002, Paul Chmiel was murdered in a Michigan prison by Michael Keep. According to reports, Keep confronted Chmiel after he had made a sexual advance toward him. During the altercation, Keep slapped Chmiel, crushed his ribs, and strangled him to death.

I believe that the Government's first duty is to defend its citizens, to defend them against the harms that are born 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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