Attorney General Mayes Secures Stipulation Halting Conversion of Surprise Facility Into ICE Detention Center

PHOENIX — Attorney General Kris Mayes announced today that Arizona has reached a stipulated agreement with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and ICE pausing efforts to convert a Surprise property into an immigration detention center until required environmental review is complete.

"This agreement is a significant win for the people of Surprise and for the rule of law," said Attorney General Mayes. "Federal agencies must complete the environmental review process required by federal law before moving forward with these types of projects. My office will keep fighting to ensure the law is followed. "

The agreement, filed jointly on June 30, 2026 grows out of the AG Mayes' April 2026 lawsuit alleging the federal government moved forward on the Sweetwater Avenue facility without completing review required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

Under the agreement, pending court approval, Defendants agree not to detain anyone at the facility or take steps to physically convert it — including construction, demolition, or retrofitting — until a final environmental assessment is completed. The stipulation pauses the litigation while the federal government conducts the environmental review, but if necessary, the State reserves the right to challenge the adequacy of the review.

A copy of the stipulation is available.