Surprise police hand criminal damage case to federal authorities

Incident involves property owned by the federal government

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Surprise police responded to a report of criminal damage early Saturday morning, but after investigating, determined the affected property belonged to the federal government. The case has now been handed over to federal authorities, including the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, for further investigation.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex jurisdictional issues that can arise when criminal activity involves property owned by the federal government. It also raises questions about the nature of the damaged federal property and whether there are any national security implications.

The details

According to the Surprise Police Department, officers responded around 1:30 a.m. to the area of North Dysart Road and West Sweetwater Avenue for a report of criminal damage. After investigating, police determined the affected property is owned by the federal government, leading them to turn the case over to federal authorities, including the FBI and Department of Homeland Security.

  • The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Surprise Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that initially responded to the criminal damage report.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

A federal law enforcement agency that has been called in to investigate the incident, as the damaged property belongs to the federal government.

Department of Homeland Security

A federal executive department that has also been called in to investigate the incident, as the damaged property belongs to the federal government and may have national security implications.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The FBI and Department of Homeland Security will continue to investigate the incident and determine the nature of the damaged federal property and any potential national security concerns.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex jurisdictional issues that can arise when criminal activity involves property owned by the federal government, and the need for close coordination between local and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough and effective investigation.