The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Daily: Nayna Gupta on the Laken Riley Act
Feb 7, 2025
In a compelling discussion, Nayna Gupta, Director of Policy at the American Immigration Council, dives into the Laken Riley Act and its significant implications for immigration policy. She unpacks its origins linked to tragic incidents and critiques the bill's impact on due process for detained individuals. Gupta highlights how the Act intensifies immigration enforcement, particularly affecting non-citizens with prior offenses, revealing its alignment with broader Trump administration policies. The conversation also challenges fear-driven narratives surrounding immigration and emphasizes the need for a more humane approach.
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Lakin Riley's Story
- Lakin Riley, a Georgia resident, was murdered by a Venezuelan man who entered the U.S. without authorization.
- This tragic event spurred the creation of the Laken Riley Act.
Trump's Immigration Focus
- President Trump signing the Laken Riley Act as his first bill in his second term signals his focus on criminal immigrants.
- This focus overshadows the reality of many immigrants without criminal records who contribute positively.
Mandatory Detention
- The Laken Riley Act mandates detention for non-citizens arrested for even minor offenses like shoplifting.
- This differs from the criminal justice system where even those accused of murder receive bail hearings.