Phoenix councilman explains how Phoenix PD might respond to ICE protests

PHOENIX — How would police in Phoenix handle protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) like the ones in Los Angeles?

Councilman Kevin Robinson, a former longtime Phoenix Police officer, told KTAR News 92.3 FM’s The Mike Broomhead Show on Tuesday the department would likely handle them the same way it did Black Lives Matter demonstrations in 2020 — by communicating.

“The Phoenix Police Department does an exceptional job at reaching out to these organizations and let them know, you have a right to protest but you have to protest within the laws,” Robinson said. “And we make it very clear that if you step outside of those laws or outside of those lines, that’s not acceptable and you can be arrested.”

Robinson said acting Chief Dennis Orender told him the department is already having those conversations.

With protests against immigration authorities continuing in Los Angeles — and more demonstrations popping up around the country — local officials are alert for the potential demonstrations in the Valley.

Phoenix Councilwoman Anna Hernandez sent a message to her District 7 constituents warning that ICE might target businesses previously audited for hiring undocumented workers. She informed people on how to protect themselves, such as signing a G-28 form to secure legal representation.

The Phoenix Police Department issued a statement Tuesday saying it was not involved in any immigration enforcement operations in the area.

“The department monitors these gatherings, intervening only as necessary — specifically to address criminal behavior which may disrupt peaceful activities, cause injury or impact public safety response and services,” the statement said.

“We encourage all community members to express their views in a peaceful and lawful manner, and we remain committed to supporting safe and respectful demonstrations.”

How else does Robinson say possible ICE protests would be handled?

Robinson, who represents District 6, noted that if protests were to take place, it is up to the commanders on the ground to decide what actions Phoenix PD takes.

“If you have it getting to a point where people are starting to get agitated and starting to throw things or something like that, then you bring in the folks who have all the riot gear in place, and that show of force is appropriate then,” Robinson said.

“Until that time, it’s going to be up to those commanders to make the decision as to what’s the best move or the best decision or how they want to move forward. We leave it up to them because they’re the ones on the ground.”

Another factor to consider here in the Valley, one that’s not as prominent in Los Angeles, is the heat.

Robinson said that it again falls to the commanders on the ground to ensure they have enough officers to switch the ones in the heat out and ensure their safety.

As far as how large the protests might be, Robinson said he is unsure.

“I’m sure they’re aware of what the estimates are within a range, what they might be and they’re planning accordingly,” Robinson said.

What advice does Robinson have for Arizonans?

Robinson encouraged those taking part in the protests to follow the rules, including walking on the sidewalk in areas they’re supposed to and not obstructing traffic.

“They will be advised of all those things, what they can and cannot do,” Robinson said. “Just do what you’re supposed to do. Don’t step out of those boundaries.”

If protests become violent, Robinson told those not involved to call the police and allow them to handle it.

Robinson noted that technology will act as Phoenix PD’s friend.

“There’s cameras everywhere. When people act out, do things they’re not supposed or they shouldn’t do, they’re usually on some type of tape,” Robinson said. “So their identities will be found later and they will be held accountable for their actions.”

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