Immigration bill named for girl allegedly killed by Venezuelans

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, on Friday introduced legislation against federal immigration policies to release illegal immigrants into the United States after apprehension. He named the legislation The Justice for Jocelyn Act in memory of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray of the Houston area. Cruz said that her murder could have been prevented if the Biden administration followed immigration law and deported the men who are now accused of killing her. 

Who are the alleged murderers, and how does immigration figure into their cases? Texas officials have charged Venezuelan nationals Johan Jose Martinez Rangel and Franklin Jose Peña Ramos with Nungaray’s murder. The suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. They had entered the country illegally earlier in March and May near El Paso, but both released the same day they were apprehended, authorities earlier confirmed to WORLD. Cruz said Friday that were more than enough empty detention beds when the men were released. And, yet, security officials still chose to release them, he added.  

What would the Justice for Jocelyn Act do? The bill would require all detention beds to be filled before Immigration and Customs Enforcement could consider releasing detained migrants. Released migrants would also have to wear an ankle bracelet so authorities can ensure they are complying with mandated curfews and travel restrictions. The legislation would also require ICE to immediately deport illegal immigrants who violate their release terms.