Surprise Mayor Defends Planned ICE Facility Amid Protests

Activists raise concerns over potential immigration enforcement office in Flagstaff

Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Surprise, Arizona Mayor Kevin Sartor has shared new details about a planned U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the city, while local activists continue to voice strong opposition to the project. An immigration advocacy group believes ICE may be opening an office in Flagstaff, raising further concerns in the community.

Why it matters

The proposed ICE facility has sparked intense debate in Surprise, with residents and advocacy groups arguing it could lead to increased immigration enforcement and a 'climate of fear' in the community. The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions around immigration policy and the role of federal agencies like ICE at the local level.

The details

Mayor Sartor provided an update on the planned ICE facility on March 30, 2026, but did not offer specifics on the timeline or scope of the project. Local activists have organized demonstrations to protest the facility, arguing it could lead to a '1,300% increase in assaults' on immigrant communities. An immigration advocacy group also believes ICE may be opening a separate office in nearby Flagstaff, raising additional concerns among residents.

  • Mayor Sartor shared new details about the planned ICE facility on March 30, 2026.
  • Activists have been organizing protests against the proposed facility in recent weeks.

The players

Kevin Sartor

The mayor of Surprise, Arizona who has provided updates on the planned ICE facility.

Surprise residents

Local community members who have voiced strong opposition to the proposed ICE facility.

Immigration advocacy group

An organization that believes ICE may be opening a separate office in Flagstaff, raising further concerns among residents.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not allow this facility to open and further terrorize our immigrant communities.”

— Surprise resident

What’s next

The Surprise City Council is expected to hold a public hearing on the proposed ICE facility in the coming weeks, where residents will have the opportunity to voice their concerns.

The takeaway

The controversy over the planned ICE facility in Surprise highlights the ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement at the local level, with residents and advocacy groups arguing it could create a 'climate of fear' and lead to increased assaults on immigrant communities.