Laken Riley’s sister speaks on Trump immigration policies in exclusive interview
The tragic story of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student who was brutally assaulted and murdered by an illegal migrant while on a morning run in February 2024, has left a lasting impact on her family and the community. Riley’s sister, Lauren Phillips, recently spoke out in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, expressing hope and gratitude for the immigration policies put in place by President Donald Trump.
Phillips emphasized the importance of securing the borders and advocated for continued efforts to address the issue. She highlighted the need to raise awareness about the consequences of lax border security and the devastating impact it can have on families like hers. Despite the progress made, Phillips acknowledged that there is still work to be done but remained hopeful that the new administration will continue in the right direction.
In a powerful video launched by the American Border Story (TABS) initiative, Phillips shared her sister’s story and emphasized the need for accountability and safety. The TABS initiative aims to shed light on the human impact of America’s border crisis through storytelling, providing a platform for families like the Rileys to share their experiences and demand change.
Phillips reflected on her sister’s faith, character, and the profound impact she had on those around her. She described Laken as a light that brought comfort, strength, and peace to everyone she encountered, emphasizing the need to honor her memory and continue advocating for border security.
Following Laken’s tragic death, Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law, signaling a commitment to address illegal immigration and protect American citizens. The legislation directs Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain illegal immigrants charged with theft-related crimes or assaulting a police officer, while also allowing states to sue the Department of Homeland Security for harm caused by illegal immigration.
Despite the legislative progress, Phillips expressed concerns about safety in her community, particularly in Athens, Georgia, where Riley was murdered. She noted that the city is considered an unofficial sanctuary city, lacking the necessary laws and protections to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
In addition to her advocacy work, Phillips and her family have established the Laken Hope Foundation, dedicated to honoring Laken’s memory and supporting those affected by similar tragedies. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share her sister’s story and emphasized the importance of faith and resilience in the face of adversity.
As the conversation around border security and immigration continues, Phillips remains committed to speaking out in honor of her sister and demanding change. Through her efforts and the support of organizations like TABS, she hopes to create a safer and more secure future for all Americans.
