Dowbrigade

But a definition is always better if accompanied by an
example. The following article from today’s
Boston Globe, about a lesbian
couple with two small kids who were attacked and beaten while buying
ice cream on the 4th of July, seems to epitomize hate crimes.

The questions remain: 1) In what way is the crime committed intrinsically
different than if the suspects in this case had beaten the woman because
they didn’t like the color of her hair, or because she reminded them
of a hated teacher? 2) Even if there is a difference in motivation,
is that
a valid reason for more severe charges and penalties? and 3) Is it within
the courts responsibility and capacity to render judgment on the motivation
and possible prejudicial mindsets of the accused?                Comments?