STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continue carrying out their core mission—protecting the American people by identifying, arresting, and removing violent criminal offenders—despite escalating political attacks and obstruction from elected officials.

DHS recently announced the arrest of Anel Billy Irigoyen Portillo, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico with a federal conviction for importing fentanyl into the United States. Arrested in Arizona, Portillo is precisely the type of offender DHS and ICE are tasked with locating and removing—a narcotics trafficker tied directly to the flow of fentanyl that has devastated families, fueled addiction, and claimed lives across our state.

“While federal agents conduct lawful operations to protect public safety, newly elected Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva has chosen to publicly attack DHS and ICE, portraying enforcement actions as misconduct rather than acknowledging the clear and documented threat posed by violent criminal offenders,” said Representative John Gillette. “This rhetoric undermines law enforcement, encourages resistance to lawful authority, and erodes respect for the rule of law at a time when clarity and cooperation are essential.”

Arizona residents expect results, accountability, and a serious commitment to public safety. Pima County officials must fully cooperate with DHS and ICE—rather than obstruct, delay, or politicize lawful federal operations. Public safety does not end at jurisdictional boundaries, and sanctuary-style policies only increase risk for law-abiding citizens.

What is needed is clear and direct action: full cooperation between Pima County agencies and federal law enforcement, operational coordination with DHS and ICE, and an end to political attacks that interfere with lawful enforcement efforts

“DHS and ICE are doing the job the American people expect—removing violent criminals and drug traffickers from our communities,” Representative Gillette added. “Arizona does not need political grandstanding that shields offenders and targets law enforcement. The public wants dangerous individuals removed, and they want their elected officials supporting—not sabotaging—the mission. This issue is not ideological. It is about public safety, the rule of law, and standing with the men and women charged with protecting our communities and our country.”

John Gillette is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 30 in Mohave County. He is Chairman of the Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections Committee. Follow him on X at @AzRepGillette