WASHINGTON – Michelle Root of Modale, Iowa, today testified before a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on policy proposals that would legalize certain illegal immigrant populations. Root, the mother of Sarah Root, who was killed in 2016 by an illegal immigrant, called on the committee to pursue policies that improve justice for victims of crimes perpetrated by illegal immigrants. She was invited to testify by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), the committee’s ranking member.
 

 
“As a parent, I sympathize with those who want a better life for their children. We would all do what it takes to give them a perfect life. However, you have to understand that rewarding illegal behavior only means we get more of it. The Dream Act, if enacted into law, would benefit people who are charged with crimes. It would legalize people in this country who have even been convicted of violent crimes,” Root said in her testimony.
 
Root called on Congress to pass Sarah’s Law, legislation introduced Sens. Grassley and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) that would require the federal government to take custody of any illegal immigrant who is later charged with a crime causing serious bodily injury or death. It would also establish a permanent office to provide case updates to victims and their families.
 
“I’ve known Michelle for a number of years and am a proud cosponsor of Sarah’s Law, which would require ICE to detain illegal immigrants who have been charged with a crime that resulted in the death or serious bodily injury of another person. Michelle has previously testified in Congress regarding Sarah’s tragic death. Her testimony at this hearing will highlight the importance of making sure that we don’t offer legal status to illegal immigrants with criminal records,” Grassley said at today’s hearing.
 
Grassley’s remarks at today’s hearing are available HERE.  Root’s full remarks are available HERE.
 

-30-