DC Considers Tougher Penalties for Rolling Bums

Council could make it a hate crime to attack homeless

WASHINGTON -- The D.C. Council is considering legislation that would make it a hate crime to attack a homeless person.

Council Member Mary Cheh introduced a bill Tuesday that would classify such attacks as hate crimes. A broad crime bill introduced in February by Councilman Phil Mendelson also includes the provision.

Last month, Maryland became the first state to extend hate-crimes protection to homeless people.

Hate-crimes protections allow prosecutors to seek tougher penalties for those who target people because of race, religion or other factors.
 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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