Chesco Legislators Move To Strengthen Hate Crime Law After Recent Attack

WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County legislators want to strengthen Pennsylvania's Hate Crime Law to include attacks on individuals with disabilities.

The move comes just days after Barry Baker, 29, was captured by law enforcement for allegedly mocking and then sucker punching a 22-year-old with cerebral palsy in front of a borough 7-11.

State Sen. Tom Killion (R-9) and State Rep. Becky Corbin (R-155) plan to introduce Senate Bill 749 formally on Thursday afternoon, Killion's office confirmed.

Details on the new legislation were not immediately available, but lawmakers said that the proposals will aim to amend the existing hate crime law to protect individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

Baker was captured at a hotel in Exton by U.S. Marshals on Monday.

See also:

• Video: Suspect Mocks, Then Sucker Punches Man With Cerebral Palsy
• Suspect Accused In Chester County Beating Of Man Draws National Fury
• Suspect Who Attacked Man With Cerebral Palsy In West Chester Also Stole From Military Graves

Patch file photo