Each left behind grieving family and friends. Each was the victim of a crime so vicious as to shock the conscience. But because Shepard's savages detested homosexuals, his death matters. Because Dirkhising's savages were driven by lust, his death is a nullity. Journalism that adopts the hate crime premise is no less offensive.
Every violent crime spreads fear and distrust.
That is why you didn't know who Jesse Dirkhising was. He deserved better. These pages are dedicated to all kids, but especially to Riana, Maia, and Christopher.