Handcuffed for Love

Nothing says "I love you" like a pair of handcuffs.

This Valentine's Day weekend, you and your special someone can explore the illegal side of romance at the National Museum of Crime and Punishment, which will again run its "Crimes of Passion" exhibit.

The museums guides/wardens will shackle visitors together and lead them through a special exhibition of "crimes of passion" from around the Washington region, including the true story of the "Valentine's Vampire."

This year, the exhibit has drawn some controversy.  Chai Senoy of the group Holla Back D.C. says the museum's tour makes light of the issue of domestic violence.

"We find it really reprehensible," she told WTOP.  "To us, this exhibit is mocking the lives of people who have died due to domestic violence."

In response, the Museum has included information on their web site about domestic violence, including a hot line and a web site where victims can access help.  The museum said it will also hand out information before the tour.

Despite the protest, the "crimes of passion" tour will go on, through 4 p.m. on Sunday.  Admission for couples is $30, which includes a pair of handcuffs.  For an extra dollar, you can upgrade to a fur-padded pair.

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