The United States Congress has passed the Laken Riley Act, a controversial bill that permits federal authorities to detain illegal immigrants charged with minor offenses, potentially leading to their deportation.
Named after Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student killed in Georgia by Jose Ibarra, an illegal migrant from Venezuela, the Act aims to address perceived failures in the justice system. Ibarra, previously arrested for shoplifting but not detained, was later sentenced to life imprisonment without parole for Riley’s murder.
Sponsored by Republican Representative Mike Collins, the bill was approved on a 252-157 vote, with the support of 48 Democrats alongside all Republicans. It expands the list of crimes that could result in detention to include burglary, theft, larceny, and shoplifting.
Critics, particularly from the Democratic Party, argue that the bill’s provisions are overly broad and risk detaining individuals for minor infractions. However, supporters say the measure is a necessary step to enhance public safety and enforce immigration laws.
The legislation reflects President-elect Donald Trump’s commitment to reducing immigration, including plans for mass deportations, which he has vowed to prioritize after his January 20 inauguration.
