U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents raided 15 Zipps Sports Grill locations across the Phoenix area on January 26, forcing all restaurants to shut down and sparking strong criticism from Governor Katie Hobbs (D-AZ).
The operation, conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, appeared to target workers at the popular local chain.
AzCentral reported that at several locations, federal agents were seen leading detained employees out of the restaurants. At the Park Central location, authorities left carrying boxes of documents around 5:40 p.m.
Gov. Hobbs voiced her frustration about how the Trump administration handled the situation, particularly the lack of advance warning to state officials.
"I am incredibly frustrated with the Trump administration's lack of adequate notification when conducting high-profile enforcement activities," Hobbs issued a statement on X. "It strains law enforcement's ability to coordinate effectively and protect our communities."
The governor also acknowledged the timing of the raids, which came shortly after the deaths of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Jeffrey Pretti in Minnesota.
"I share the feelings of many Arizonans who are devastated by the horrific killing of protestors in Minnesota, and understand the fear and pain it has created in our communities," she said.
Governor Hobbs Demands Trust & Safety
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for Arizona, the searches were part of an ongoing criminal investigation that has been underway for months. Federal authorities said the search warrants were approved by a federal judge based on evidence of possible felony violations of federal law.
Dozens of protesters gathered at raid locations to demonstrate against the federal action. Zipps, which only operates in Arizona, closed all its restaurants during the operation. Owners hoped to reopen by the end of the week.
Hobbs emphasized the need for better cooperation between federal and state officials.
"Now more than ever, it is critical for federal law enforcement to work with state and local officials to build community trust and ensure the safety of law enforcement personnel and members of our community," she stated.
The governor said her office remains in contact with federal officials to gather more information about the full scope and purpose of the investigation.
ICE raids are expected to increase in the metro Phoenix area.
