Lawmakers uncover overcrowded Mesa ICE site lacking beds or showers in surprise visit

Three Democratic lawmakers conducted a surprise overnight tour of ICE’s Mesa AROCC holding facility after reports of severe overcrowding, discovering six rooms packed with detainees, no beds or showers, and about 250 people inside—well above the facility’s stated capacity. Data show 2026 detainee stays averaging around 36 hours and roughly 274 detainees per day, with a peak of about 777, even though ICE says stays are typically under 12 hours. The visit drew sharp criticisms as lawmakers vowed to push for changes and scrutinize funding for ICE.