Rep. Adelita Grijalva alleges she was physically assaulted and pepper-sprayed by ICE agents

Arizona Representative Adelita Grijalva, a Democrat, reported that she was physically pushed and subjected to pepper spray by federal immigration officers during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid at a Tucson restaurant on Friday.

Grijalva shared a video on X, explaining that she visited Taco Giro to seek clarification on the raid, stating that it was her right as a member of Congress. "I was sprayed in the face by a very aggressive agent and pushed around by others, even though I was not aggressive," she said. She added that, after identifying herself, she expected a calmer interaction, but most agents remained hostile. "Only one person attempted to speak civilly, while the rest were rude and disrespectful. I can only imagine how they treat others," she remarked.

Grijalva also noted that journalists and other bystanders were sprayed, and that she and two staff members still had traces of the chemical after the raid concluded. She posted video footage of the incident on X.

In response, Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin disputed Grijalva's account, asserting she was not directly pepper-sprayed but was near someone who was, claiming she and others obstructed law enforcement. McLaughlin added, "Presenting oneself as a Member of Congress does not authorize obstructing law enforcement." She confirmed that two officers sustained serious injuries during the operation.

Speaking to CNN, Grijalva said the officials' narrative misrepresents her actions. Tucson Police were present at the scene but arrived after ICE and were not involved in any aggressive behavior. ICE confirmed multiple arrests were made, with the total number pending.

Local Reactions

Tucson Police verified that Homeland Security Investigations executed a federal search warrant at Taco Giro, noting that no force was used by police officers. After federal agents deployed chemical munitions, Tucson police provided emergency support to ensure safety.

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and Vice Mayor Lane Santa Cruz issued a joint statement expressing concern over the raid, criticizing what they called excessive force under former federal immigration policies. They highlighted that federal agents have previously used ambiguous clothing and forceful tactics, including pepper spray and smoke grenades, which they said was unjustified.

Grijalva, who was sworn into Congress just last month after winning a special election to succeed her late father, Raul Grijalva, emphasized the need for accountability and protection for the community during such operations.

Author: Ava Mitchell