Angel Mom’s Plea: Reopened VOICE Office Saves Lives

Angel Mom’s Plea: Reopened VOICE Office Saves Lives

On Capitol Hill, Agnes Gibboney, a mother who lost her son, shared her story. She spoke at a hearing about the pain caused by what she calls sanctuary policies. Gibboney’s son was killed by a man who had been deported before but returned to the United States.

This individual had a history of arrests, but the legal system repeatedly released him. Even after deportation, he came back and was arrested again, yet a judge did nothing.

Soon after, this man shot and killed Gibboney’s son. The bullet was not meant for her son, but he is the one who died.

Gibboney expressed deep sorrow over her loss. The person who killed her son was a repeat offender who should not have been in the country.

VOICE Office Offers Critical Support

President Trump reopened the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement Office, known as VOICE. This office helps victims of crimes committed by immigrants. In the past year, VOICE has received over 900 calls.

These calls were from people seeking information and help. Many cases involved violent assault, rape, or homicide.

For Agnes Gibboney, the VOICE office was incredibly helpful. They helped track the killer who was about to be released from prison. Enforcement and Removal Operations officers then went to the prison and arrested him as he was let out.

They deported him for a second time. Gibboney is unsure if he has returned to the U.S. because, under the current administration, she feels many who don’t want to enter are still able to. However, she credits VOICE with being essential in deporting her son’s killer.

A System Failing Victims

Gibboney also spoke about her experience with the California Department of Corrections. They were very hesitant to give her any information about the killer’s whereabouts.

When she called to check on his status, they asked why she needed to know. She stated it was her right to know where an offender is and when he will be released, a right she has under Marsy’s Law.

The California Department of Corrections only gave a three-day window for his release. ICE agents stepped in because they could access records more easily than she could. Gibboney felt she, as the mother, had no right to see anything, and the California Department of Corrections was not helpful.

She mentioned that many other Angel Moms are dealing with similar issues in California. The state is reportedly releasing prisoners who reach a certain age, regardless of their crimes.

One friend’s daughter was murdered, and the killer, who received multiple life sentences, has a parole hearing coming up after serving only 7.5 years. Gibboney called this situation absurd, with criminals being released constantly.

A Plea for Support for ICE

Gibboney hopes that California will get a new governor and end what she calls this insanity. She believes the current governor is not doing enough and only fights with President Trump, leaving citizens exposed to crime. She feels politicians have forgotten their oath to protect citizens, instead protecting those who have broken laws by entering the country.

When asked about national debates surrounding ICE, Gibboney urged Americans to support ICE. She believes they protect citizens, their children, and their families from criminal illegal aliens. She posed a question to those against ICE: Would they risk their child, parent, or sibling being killed to oppose ICE?

She hopes the answer is no. Gibboney expressed her love and gratitude for the men and women of ICE, acknowledging the difficult job they do, especially with some in Congress inciting violence against them.

Why This Matters

Agnes Gibboney’s story highlights the profound impact of immigration policies on individual lives. The reopening of the VOICE office under the Trump administration provided her with crucial assistance in a system that had otherwise failed her.

This office is a point of contact for victims seeking information and support, particularly when dealing with complex legal and correctional systems. The emotional and practical toll on families who have lost loved ones to crimes committed by individuals who should have been removed from the country is immense.

Looking Ahead

The testimony highlights a continuing debate about immigration enforcement and victim support. The VOICE office’s activity, with over 900 calls logged, indicates a significant need for such services. The future of these programs often depends on administrative priorities and political will.

For families like Gibboney’s, the hope is for consistent support and enforcement that prioritizes the safety of citizens and prevents further tragedies. The upcoming election and potential changes in state and federal leadership could significantly influence these policies and the resources available to victims.

Source: VOICE Instrumental in Deporting My Son's Killer; Grateful to Trump for Reopening VOICE Office (YouTube)