Democratic AG Slams Biden-Harris Over Border Policy

Harris

Houston’s District Attorney Kim Ogg slams the Biden-Harris administration’s border policy as violent crimes surge in the city.

At a Glance

  • Houston Democratic DA Kim Ogg criticizes “catch and release” border policy amid rising violent crimes.
  • Ogg claims migrant criminals are committing more violent crimes in Houston.
  • 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray’s murder by Venezuelan migrants sparks immigration debate.
  • The case has become a focal point in immigration discussions during an election year.
  • Ogg supports Republican Sen. Ted Cruz’s reelection due to migrant crime concerns.

Houston DA Criticizes Border Policy Amid Rising Crime

Houston’s Democratic District Attorney Kim Ogg has publicly criticized the Biden-Harris administration’s “catch and release” border policy, claiming it has led to an increase in violent crimes committed by migrants in the city. Ogg’s statements come in the wake of several high-profile cases, including the tragic murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, allegedly committed by two Venezuelan migrants who had been previously apprehended and released by U.S. Border Patrol.

“If the two murderers had not been released with ankle monitors, which instills a false sense of security in everyone … if they hadn’t been released, Jocelyn Nungaray wouldn’t have been murdered,” Ogg stated, emphasizing the direct link she sees between current border policies and violent crimes in Houston.

The Jocelyn Nungaray Case: A Tragic Focal Point

The murder of Jocelyn Nungaray has become a flashpoint in the ongoing immigration debate. The 12-year-old girl was sexually assaulted and murdered in June after being lured to a creek by two men. Suspects Johan Jose Martinez Rangel, 22, and Franklin Jose Peña Ramos, 26, both Venezuelan nationals, were arrested three days after the crime. Both had previously been apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol and released with a notice to appear.

The case has sparked intense political debate, with figures like former President Donald Trump and local officials pointing to it as evidence of the need for stricter immigration policies. Jocelyn’s mother has become an advocate for more robust immigrant detention policies, while her grandfather expressed gratitude for the high bail amount set for the suspects, ensuring they remain in custody.

Rising Migrant Crime Concerns

Ogg’s criticism of the current administration’s border policies extends beyond the Nungaray case. She claims that Houston is seeing an increase in violent crimes committed by migrants, particularly from countries that do not share information with American officials. “We’re seeing colonies of Venezuelans pop up, and we’re seeing cases like Jocelyn Nungaray murdered by two Venezuelan nationals who were captured by ICE but released under the current administration’s policy. And the catch-and-release program is absurd in concept,” Ogg stated.

“When it comes to migrant criminals coming here, we’re seeing just in terms of the volume … more violent crimes committed by migrants from places that do not share information with American officials.” – Kim Ogg

The District Attorney’s stance has led her to publicly support Republican Senator Ted Cruz’s reelection campaign, citing the issue of migrant crime as a primary factor. This move has raised eyebrows given Ogg’s Democratic affiliation, but she maintains that the safety of Houston residents is her top priority.

Debate Over Immigration and Crime

While Ogg and other officials point to cases like Nungaray’s as evidence of the need for stricter border policies, immigrant advocacy groups caution against using isolated incidents to shape broader policy. Some researchers argue that immigrants are not more likely to commit crimes than U.S.-born citizens. However, Crime Stoppers Houston emphasizes the right of victims’ families to seek answers and express their views on these sensitive issues.

As the nation grapples with these complex issues, the intersection of immigration policy and public safety continues to be a contentious and emotional topic, likely to play a significant role in upcoming elections and policy decisions.

Sources:

  1. Democratic Houston DA slams Harris-Biden admin’s ‘absurd catch-and-release’ border policy
  2. As the capital murder case of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray goes to court, here’s what to know
  3. New details: Men accused of killing 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray were looking for money to leave Houston after murder

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