On Tuesday, January 7, 2025, the Republican-led House passed its first bill of 2025, the Laken Riley Act. The bill was named after the 22-year-old woman found murdered in Georgia by an undocumented immigrant who had a previous criminal record for shoplifting. This bill would require the detention of all undocumented immigrants, including those seeking asylum, if they were accused of non-violent crimes such as theft, burglary, or shoplifting.
Laken Riley Act Legal Implications
While the Laken Riley Act’s intention is to safeguard and protect American citizens like Laken, it has sparked concern since this bill requires the detention of immigrants as soon as they are charged with crimes. Immigrant advocates worry that migrants will be placed in detention without due process.
Jamie Raskin, a Democratic congressman from Maryland, noted that the new bill signifies a “radical departure from current law.” Previous law since 1996 required mandatory detention only when criminal guilt was proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Raskin further argues that this bill allows for migrants to be detained and deported for shoplifting—even when their charges are dropped.
If you believe that this bill can affect you or your loved ones, it is recommended to contact an experienced lawyer.
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