Drifting slightly off topic here, I personally think the idea of hate crime laws is stupid. All crimes are hate crimes. You don't kill someone because you love them. You usually kill them because you hate them. Unless it is like that movie, Million Dollar Baby, and you actually care about them. Good movie, anyways, I think harsh punishment is necessary for all crimes regardless if the intent was based on sexual orientation or if he didn't like the cut of his jib.
thank you everyone for you kind words and comments. it is so wonderful to be a member of hip forums. unfortunately, as of the day there has been no arrest regarding this crime. the only suspect (a hustler type) who my friend opened his home to was released due to a lack of evidence.
im so sorry this happened...it seems like all of my good friends are going through close deaths like this..... karma will go around and really get the killer, but in the meantime, take time to mourn and remember all the good times you had with him.