Hobbs Raises Alarm Over ICE Agents Disguised as Utility Workers

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs is currently assessing the actions of federal immigration officials who allegedly impersonated utility workers while searching for undocumented individuals. On June 4, Hobbs expressed her concerns about the situation, stating, “I think that’s very concerning.”

The Governor noted uncertainty over whether state laws against impersonation apply to federal agents, and whether the state has any recourse. “We’re looking into that,” she mentioned.

Richie Taylor, a spokesperson for Attorney General Kris Mayes, echoed Hobbs’ sentiments regarding the troubling nature of this behavior by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

The incident in question occurred when ICE agents, posing as Tucson Electric Power representatives, approached a woman in Tucson, claiming to search for a neighbor. The woman, Christine Cariño, initially believed they were legitimate until she noticed one agent display a badge.

Authorities are now grappling with whether existing laws regarding impersonation apply to this case. Arizona state laws make it a felony to assume a fake identity for fraudulent purposes. However, there are exceptions for peace officers performing their duties.

As of now, ICE has not responded to inquiries about the incident. The Governor indicated that addressing impersonation issues goes beyond her authority to address ICE’s broader practices, which have included arrests at federal immigration courts.

“What we know is they’re acting in accordance with directives from higher-ups in their agency,” Hobbs said, adding that her options are limited to voicing opposition. “We’re making it clear this is the kind of activity that we are not OK with.”

The Governor criticized the tactics used by ICE agents, suggesting they detract from their mission. “I want them to focus on those deportations,” she stated, referencing policies from the previous administration.

This controversy follows a recent change in Department of Homeland Security policies, which rescinded limitations on ICE activities at courthouses. Tricia McLaughlin, an assistant secretary in the agency, defended the need for such measures, stating they conserve valuable resources.

Impersonating utility workers appears to be a new tactic for ICE. The ACLU of California has previously obtained memos indicating that similar ruses have been used by various federal law enforcement agencies since as early as 2005.

Meanwhile, Tucson Electric Power declined to elaborate on their relationship with ICE. Joe Salkowski, a spokesman for the utility, stated they only have a published statement that expresses their objection to any misrepresentation by those posing as TEP employees.

The utility emphasized the importance of proper identification to maintain safety and security for their employees and the public.