CRIME & LAW

Tucson Lawmaker Says ICE Pepper-Sprayed During Protest Friday

PUBLISHED Dec 5, 2025, 5:49 PM ET

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Tucson Lawmaker Says ICE Pepper-Sprayed During Protest Friday

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 7

Left 29%

Center 43%

Right 29%

Sources: 7

Tucson, Arizona — Rep. Adelita Grijalva said federal agents pepper-sprayed her and pushed protesters during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation at Taco Giro on Dec. 5. Videos she posted show masked federal officers, 40 in multiple vehicles, and clouds of spray or smoke near crowds that had gathered after the earlier raid. Grijalva said she identified herself as a member of Congress and sought clarification; she appears to cough and rub her eyes in footage. DHS officials and ICE disputed parts of her account, citing injuries to officers and crowd interference. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research today.

By Faro B. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

September: Adelita Grijalva wins special election to succeed her late father.
November: Grijalva experiences a delayed swearing-in, later completed by House leadership.
Dec. 5: ICE conducts an enforcement raid at Taco Giro in Tucson.
Dec. 5: Protesters assemble; Grijalva posts video alleging she was pepper-sprayed and pushed.
Following days: DHS and ICE dispute parts of the account; footage and statements circulate.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 2
Left Leaning:: 2
Neutral:: 3
Distribution:: Left 29%, Center 43%, Right 29%

Who Benefited

Local opponents of ICE and advocates for immigrant rights gained increased visibility and political support following widely shared videos and statements.

Who Impacted

Tucson immigrant community members and protesters who faced potential detention, physical harm, or chemical exposure during the operation suffered immediate adverse consequences.