Our Athens/Clarke County/UGA/Augusta University communities recently suffered a tragic loss. Laken Hope Riley, a beloved member of our Athens/Clarke County family, is no longer with us. This personal tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for policy change in our area.

According to the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the suspect in her murder, Jose Antonio Ibarra unlawfully entered the United States in El Paso, Texas on September 8, 2022. On September 14, 2023, he was apprehended by the New York Police Department for acting in a manner to endanger or injure a child. After being released, he migrated to Athens, Georgia and has now been arrested for the senseless murder of Laken Hope Riley. 

Athens/Clarke County currently holds sanctuary status, which contributes to an environment that can harbor, even welcome, dangerous individuals. While we respect the rights and dignity of all people, we believe it's crucial to prioritize the safety and security of our own local residents.

According to data from the Migration Policy Institute (MPI), there are approximately 300 sanctuary jurisdictions in the United States. These locations have policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement agencies, potentially impacting public safety. Less than 75 miles away is the sanctuary city of Atlanta; Georgia doesn't need two sanctuary cities that close in proximity.

Therefore, we call upon local authorities in Athens/Clarke County to reconsider its sanctuary status. We urge them to prioritize public safety for its local citizens. 

Please join us by signing this petition today – let's make Athens/Clarke County safer for everyone who calls it home.