US Senate Approves Tougher Detention Measures for Migrant Crime Suspects

WASHINGTON — The US Senate has passed a bill aimed at expanding pretrial detention for undocumented immigrants charged with crimes, as part of a Republican-led push to tighten immigration laws under Donald Trump's second term.

The Laken Riley Act, named after a 22-year-old student murdered by an undocumented migrant, mandates detention for foreign criminal suspects involved in theft-related offenses. It passed with a 64-35 vote, following approval in the House of Representatives. The bill also extends detention to those involved in crimes resulting in death or serious injury, and is expected to reach Trump’s desk by week's end.

Republicans argue the bill strengthens border security and restores law and order, with Senate Republicans quick to criticize President Joe Biden's immigration policies. Democrats, however, raised concerns over the bill's high costs—estimated at $83 billion in the first three years—and the potential for due process violations.

Trump has long promised to crack down on illegal immigration, highlighting cases like Laken Riley’s murder to bolster his position. Critics warn the law could harm legal immigrants and strain resources meant for more serious threats.