The Consulate General of Mexico in Phoenix has alerted its nationals in Arizona about a partnership between the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This advisory comes in response to reports from families in Maricopa County who have experienced detentions in the area.
In a public notice shared on social media, the consulate urged Mexican nationals to carry valid identification and to remain calm when interacting with law enforcement. They also advised avoiding affected areas unless absolutely necessary and encouraged individuals to reach out to the consulate for assistance. The message emphasized the importance of safety: “With the goal of safeguarding your security and avoiding setbacks,” it read.
The advisory follows an escalation in immigration enforcement activities throughout the Phoenix area. According to a spokesperson for the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, the agency has not modified its policies regarding collaboration with federal partners. The spokesperson stated that deputies exercise discretion when deciding to contact federal officials, including during routine traffic stops.
Rising Immigration Enforcement
Consul General Jorge Mendoza Yescas has previously voiced concerns regarding the increased presence of ICE agents in the community. In a July interview with Caló News, he highlighted a significant uptick in arrests since January, estimating that detentions in Arizona have surged from approximately 10 individuals per day to around 50. He explained that these operations differ from past targeted enforcement, with individuals lacking criminal records or deportation orders also being apprehended.
The consulate has maintained communication with ICE and Homeland Security Investigations, enabling it to seek information about detained individuals that may not be accessible to legal representatives or local authorities. Despite these efforts, Mendoza Yescas acknowledged that informing detainees of their rights may not be sufficient to prevent their detention.
Consular Support and Community Precautions
In light of these developments, the consulate continues to advise families to document detentions and ensure that individuals at risk have trusted contacts in the United States who can alert consular officials. For those facing deportation, the consulate offers assistance with repatriation programs to Mexico.
The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office’s partnership with ICE is part of a broader trend of increased immigration enforcement in the region, which has raised concerns among local communities. The consulate remains committed to supporting Mexican nationals, regardless of their immigration status, providing a vital lifeline during these challenging times.
