Arizona AG Says Self-Defense Law Applies to Masked Encounters with ICE agents

Phoenix, Arizona — Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes drew national attention after stating that the state’s self-defense laws could apply if residents encounter masked individuals they believe pose an immediate threat, including federal immigration agents who are not clearly identified.

In an interview with 12News, Mayes referenced Arizona’s “Stand Your Ground” statute, which allows individuals to use lethal force if they reasonably believe their life is in danger while in their home, vehicle, or on their property. Her remarks came amid heightened scrutiny of Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations and growing protests nationwide following recent fatal encounters involving federal agents.

Mayes emphasized she was not encouraging violence, but warning about the legal and public safety risks created when armed officers operate in plain clothes or masks with limited identification. She described the situation as “a recipe for disaster,” arguing that civilians may not be able to distinguish between legitimate law enforcement and a perceived attacker in high-stress situations.

When pressed on whether her comments amounted to permission to shoot federal agents, Mayes said she was simply describing the law as it exists. She questioned how a resident is supposed to know they are facing a peace officer if the individual is masked and unidentified, adding that “real cops don’t wear masks.”

Her comments arrive as ICE has faced criticism over enforcement tactics and transparency, particularly after protests intensified in Minnesota following the killing of Renee Good by a federal agent. The remarks have sparked debate over law enforcement identification, public trust, and the boundaries of self-defense laws during federal immigration operations.

Sources:

• The National Desk – MBFC Rating