Reply #13: But it does not...though it does provide stiff penalties for violent assault

[Solo_in_MD]

The only justification for hate crimes that has any traction with me are those actions that are designed to create fear in a minority group. That covers things like swastikas on synagogues and burning crosses. While this crime was horrific, there is no evidence of an intention to create fear in gays by this robbery. Current law should be more than enough punishment for the perps. The judge has that kind of discretion. If he does not use it, the problem is not the law, but on the bench.

As for your feelings about the ability for people to defend themselves, its your call to render yourself defenseless, just don't push it on the rest of us. You and yours may well be injured or killed for your perspective, damage that could easily have been prevented had you chosen to be responsible for your own safety, which the police have no obligation to protect. Your family, your call, but they should be fully informed about the potential consequences of your ignorance of history and the law.