Arizona Governor Probes Federal Agents’ Use of Utility Worker Disguises
In a developing situation, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has expressed concerns regarding federal immigration officials who disguised themselves as utility workers during operations targeting undocumented immigrants. Hobbs, while acknowledging the gravity of the issue, is currently exploring the legal implications and the state’s capacity to respond.
“I think that’s very concerning,” remarked Hobbs, highlighting potential legal hurdles in addressing whether Arizona’s impersonation laws apply to federal agents.
Attorney General Kris Mayes’ spokesperson, Richie Taylor, echoed these sentiments, noting that the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have raised significant questions. The scrutiny follows reports of ICE agents posing as Tucson Electric Power employees attempting to locate a neighbor of a Tucson resident. It was only upon noticing a badge that the resident, Christine Carino, identified them as ICE agents, prompting her to alert her neighbor.
Currently, state laws addressing impersonation focus on fraudulent intent and unauthorized access, yet include exceptions for law enforcement officers performing their duties. Hobbs is investigating these legal nuances. “We’re looking into that,” she said.
Meanwhile, ICE has yet to comment on these allegations.
The controversy over disguises is part of a broader debate on ICE’s tactics, particularly after the Department of Homeland Security reversed its policy limiting ICE’s operations in sensitive locations like courthouses. While some officials argue these practices are efficient and safe, Hobbs contends that such strategies are counterproductive and wasteful. “I want ICE to go after the criminals,” she stated, emphasizing her stance against targeting individuals complying with immigration laws.
Documents obtained by the ACLU of California through the Freedom of Information Act reveal ICE’s long-standing use of ruses, including impersonating employees of various entities, under specific guidelines that require informing affected entities beforehand. These tactics, according to a Homeland Security memo, aim to prevent suspects from escaping.
In response to the incident, Tucson Electric Power has contacted the Department of Homeland Security, requesting that its agents refrain from such impersonation. The utility company underscored the importance of maintaining trust with customers, advising them to verify employee identities through visible company logos on attire and vehicles.
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