In a recent Senate hearing investigating the Department of Homeland Security’s handling of the southern border, new evidence emerged regarding the case of Laken Riley, a University of Georgia student tragically killed. It was revealed that the suspect, Jose Ibarra, an illegal migrant, had been previously released by the DHS despite having a criminal history.

Senator Josh Hawley confronted DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, stating, “Now we all know that the reason he was paroled into this country is because of lack of detention capacity, which you and I both know is not a valid reason.” Mayorkas’s responses and the unfolding details only intensified the gravity of the situation.

During the hearing, Hawley didn’t mince words, pressing Mayorkas about the rationale behind Ibarra’s release. “Why did you change your story so often?” Hawley challenged. Mayorkas’s vague replies did little to assuage concerns. “I’m confident that justice will be vindicated in the criminal prosecution,” he retorted.

The facts of the case are chilling. Less than a year after his release, Ibarra was picked up by New York City police on charges of injuring a child. Shockingly, due to the city’s sanctuary city policies, the charges were dropped, and Ibarra walked free once again.

Senator Lindsey Graham didn’t hold back, alleging, “The Biden Administration is breaking the law at the expense of innocent Americans.” The tragedy of Laken Riley’s death is compounded by the apparent failures in the immigration system. Despite having a criminal record and being in the country illegally, Ibarra slipped through the cracks. Riley’s family deserves answers, and the American public demands accountability.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for immigration reform. It’s not just a matter of policy; it’s a matter of life and death. As the investigation unfolds, one thing is clear: the system failed Laken Riley, and it must not fail others like her.