Understanding Immigration Arrests in Arizona: What the Numbers Really Mean
Estimating how many undocumented immigrants are arrested in Arizona each year involves parsing through complex and often overlapping data sets. Enforcement occurs at multiple levels—U.S. Border Patrol, ICE, and local law enforcement—and not all apprehensions lead to formal arrests or criminal prosecution. Here’s what current data tells us about immigration-related arrests in the state.
Border Apprehensions: Tucson and Yuma Sectors
U.S. Border Patrol statistics offer the most immediate numbers. In fiscal year 2024, agents in the Tucson Sector alone reported over 460,000 migrant apprehensions. When combined with the Yuma Sector, the total for Arizona’s border crossings exceeds 500,000 apprehensions annually.
It’s important to note that a “border apprehension” doesn’t necessarily mean a criminal arrest. Many are processed and returned under administrative procedures, particularly under changing federal policies.
ICE Arrests Inside Arizona
While Border Patrol handles border entries, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) makes arrests within the interior—often targeting individuals who’ve overstayed visas or violated immigration court orders.
In January 2025, ICE made 451 arrests in Arizona, with 81 individuals (about 18%) having no criminal record, meaning their arrest was based solely on immigration status.
This number can vary monthly, but consistently points to hundreds of immigration-related arrests per month within the state, apart from those made at the border.
Criminal Prosecutions for Illegal Entry
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Arizona prosecutes individuals for criminal violations like illegal entry or reentry after deportation.
- July–September 2024: 2,611 individuals charged with illegal entry or reentry.
- October–December 2024: 3,141 individuals prosecuted for similar offenses.
These cases reflect a federal criminal process and are separate from administrative removals or civil immigration violations.
The Bottom Line
Combining all available data:
- Border apprehensions: 500,000+ annually in Arizona
- ICE interior arrests: Hundreds per month statewide
- Federal criminal immigration charges: Several thousand annually
A conservative estimate is that tens of thousands of undocumented immigrants are arrested, apprehended, or processed through the Arizona legal system each year, though only a fraction result in criminal convictions.
Legal Implications and the Need for Representation
Not all immigration violations are criminal. Many are civil in nature and require a different legal approach than criminal defense. However, when criminal charges like illegal reentry are filed, the stakes rise significantly—potentially including prison time and permanent bars to reentry.
That’s why it’s crucial to have experienced legal counsel when facing immigration-related charges in Arizona.
Contact Rideout Law Group Today
If you or a loved one is facing immigration-related legal issues—whether criminal or civil—our team can help. With offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City, we represent clients across Arizona with aggressive, compassionate legal defense.
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11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
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