ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – The tragic death of Augusta University nursing student Laken Riley has sparked a debate on border security, with some state and national politicians using the incident to push for stricter measures.

Riley’s alleged killer, 26-year-old Jose Antonio Ibarra, hails from Venezuela and is not a U.S. citizen. His older brother Diego was arrested for possessing a fake green card during the investigation into Riley’s murder.

Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley expressed her concerns, stating, “The murder at the University of Georgia highlights the need for greater border security. Why are we continuing to allow this border to remain open? It’s inexcusable,” in an interview with WCSC in Charleston.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp also weighed in, sending a letter to President Joe Biden addressing the crime as part of the “disastrous impacts of an unsecured U.S. southern border.” He urged the Biden administration to provide details on Jose Ibarra’s immigration status, Diego Ibarra’s fraudulent identification, and their entry into the country.

In a tweet, Governor Kemp wrote, “Laken Riley’s tragic death struck the hearts of Georgians everywhere and has sparked national outrage. Joe Biden’s failed policies have turned every state into a border state, and I’m demanding information from him so we can protect our people when the federal government won’t!”

Georgia Speaker Jon Burns also released a statement expressing condolences for Riley’s family and highlighting the need to address the failures in securing the border and dealing with the influx of illegal immigrants.

Diego Ibarra was processed for expedited removal after his arrest, but a court hearing for his asylum claim is scheduled for Apr. 30. Meanwhile, Jose Ibarra, charged with multiple offenses including murder, has been denied bond.

Political Response

Georgia’s political leaders are demanding accountability and action in the wake of Laken Riley’s tragic death. They are calling for a comprehensive approach to border security to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Legal Proceedings

The legal process for the Ibarra brothers is ongoing, with Diego facing potential deportation and Jose facing serious criminal charges. The outcome of these cases will have significant implications for the debate on border security and immigration policies.

Conclusion

The murder of Laken Riley has reignited the debate on border security in Georgia and beyond. As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Riley’s family and preventing similar tragedies in the future.