Feenstra Votes for Laken Riley Act to Detain Illegal Immigrants Guilty of Theft, Burglary, or Shoplifting

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted for, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed, the Laken Riley Act in honor of 22-year-old Laken Riley who was murdered by an illegal immigrant while out on a run last year. This legislation specifically requires Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to take custody of illegal immigrants who commit theft, burglary, larceny, or shoplifting.

In 2022, the illegal immigrant was apprehended by border patrol but later released. Upon his release, he was later found guilty of shoplifting in Georgia and ultimately released once again.

“Nearly a year ago, 22-year-old Laken Riley was murdered in broad daylight by an illegal immigrant who should have never been free on the streets. As a father of four, I cannot fathom the pain and heartbreak of losing a child, and it’s why we must pass policies that protect our families from dangerous criminals,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I voted for the Laken Riley Act to ensure that any illegal immigrant who commits theft, burglary, or shoplifting is swiftly detained by law enforcement and held accountable for their crimes. By passing this important legislation, we will keep our children safer and our communities stronger.”

Feenstra is an original cosponsor of this legislation.

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