Federal court records and legal filings

Trump Signs First Law of Second Term: Laken Riley Act Mandates Detention of Accused Violent Immigrants

Jan 29, 2025, 07:53 PM

President Donald Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law on Wednesday, marking the first legislation of his second term and delivering on a key campaign promise to strengthen immigration enforcement. The law mandates the detention and potential deportation of undocumented immigrants accused of theft and violent crimes before they have been convicted, and includes provisions allowing states to sue the federal government if such individuals are not detained. Named in honor of 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley, who was killed in 2024 by an illegal immigrant from Venezuela associated with the gang Tren de Aragua, the act aims to prevent similar tragedies. The legislation also encompasses 'Sarah's Law,' named after Sarah Root, an Iowa woman killed by an illegal immigrant in 2016, which requires immigration authorities to detain illegal immigrants charged with serious crimes resulting in injury or death. Laken’s parents, Allyson Phillips and John Riley, attended the signing ceremony at the White House alongside other Angel families. “We want to thank President Trump for the promises he made to us,” Phillips said through tears. “He said he would secure our borders and that he would never forget about Laken, and he hasn’t. He’s a man of his word.” She also expressed gratitude to Jesus Christ, noting that because of him, they can continue living knowing they will see Laken again. Trump emphasized the importance of the legislation, stating, “With today’s action, her name will also live forever in the laws of our country, and this is a very important law.” Referring to Laken's killer, he added, “We’re going to show him who the hunter is.” The act garnered bipartisan support in Congress and is seen by supporters as a critical step toward enhancing public safety and enforcing immigration laws. Critics, however, argue that it may lead to due process concerns and the unfair treatment of individuals not yet convicted of a crime.