Video Shows ICE Agent Striking Protesters in Phoenix, Sparking Investigation

PHOENIX — A video appearing to present an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent repeatedly striking protesters outside a Homeland Security complex in downtown Phoenix last Thursday has prompted complaints and calls for an investigation.

Incident Details

Tera Sommers and Denise Papst allege that an ICE agent initiated physical contact during a demonstration. Sommers stated that an agent “smacked the megaphone out of my hand” while the group was protesting. Papst claims the agent struck the megaphone a second time, hitting her in the face and causing a bleeding lip.

The incident occurred in a parking lot belonging to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, which connects to a federal complex where ICE agents work.

Video of the incident appears to show a second ICE agent pulling back his colleague following the confrontation. The women have filed a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General and are requesting a Department of Homeland Security investigation.

Expert Analysis

Retired Phoenix Police Sgt. Paul Brown, an expert in police tactics, reviewed the video and stated that it does not, on its own, justify the agent’s actions. Brown explained that an arrest might have been warranted if the women had been trespassing, or if a physical threat had been made against the officer.

Brown also expressed broader concerns about ICE’s response to such incidents, stating, “I’ve been very disappointed in what I’ve seen from ICE so far.” He cautioned that protesters should also avoid being overly aggressive.

Agency Response

ICE’s local office did not respond to questions regarding the incident. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson defended the agency’s conduct, stating that “DHS law enforcement officers are trained to use the minimum amount of force necessary to deescalate dangerous situations to prioritize the safety of the public and our officers.”

Ongoing Investigation and Protester Resolve

Brown emphasized the need for an investigation into the incident, stating, “They should expect the agency to conduct an investigation.”

Sommers and Papst, who are relocating to the Phoenix area from Pittsburgh, stated that the encounter will not deter their activism. Papst said, “This won’t stop us.”

HSI Phoenix Contact Information:
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Phone: (480) 791-0745
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