Zipps Sports Grill releases statement on federal raids

Zipps says it's cooperating with federal investigation

Zipps Sports Grill issued a statement Tuesday confirming it is cooperating with a federal criminal investigation into alleged felony violations, though the company noted that officials have not yet shared specific details or announced formal charges.

PHOENIX - One day after federal agents served more than a dozen search warrants at Zipps Sports Grill locations across the Valley, the company issued a response.

What we know:

On Monday, Jan. 26, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) served the warrants at 14 Zipps locations around the Valley, and Goldie's Sports Cafe in Scottsdale.

"The search warrants were authorized based on information presented to a federal judge and are being executed as part of a criminal investigation into felony violations of federal law," the United States Attorney's Office District of Arizona said on Jan. 26.

Two days later, HSI confirmed the raids were immigration-related, saying "more than 35 illegal aliens" were arrested.

Federal agents at a Zipps Sports Grill location on Jan. 26, 2026.

There are a total of 14 Zipps locations in the Valley: 5 in Phoenix, 4 in Scottsdale, 1 in Glendale, 2 in Tempe, 1 in Chandler and 1 in Gilbert. The company also owns Goldie's Sports Cafe in Scottsdale.

Zipps Sports Grill releases a statement

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On Jan. 27, Zipps released a statement on what happened, saying the feds haven't shared details regarding its investigation.

"Zipps Sports Grill is aware that federal authorities executed court-authorized search warrants at a number of our locations on January 26, as part of an ongoing investigation. Federal officials have not shared details regarding the nature of the investigation, and no charges or allegations have been announced. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement and working closely with our attorneys to understand the scope of the inquiry. Because this is an active matter, we are unable to comment further at this time. Zipps Sports Grill locations are currently closed, but we are working to reopen by the end of the week. We will notify our customers as soon as we resume normal operations."

HSI confirms reason for raids

"ICE HSI Arizona led the execution of over a dozen criminal federal search warrants at multiple Zipps Grill restaurants, resulting in the arrest of more than 35 illegal aliens. This ongoing investigation is focused on several federal law violations including unlawful employment of aliens, identity theft, and document fraud.HSI Arizona conducted the operation with several law enforcement partners to include the IRS-CI, ERO, US Marshals and Border Patrol," HSI said.

During the raids, dozens of people gathered outside the restaurants protesting immigration enforcement.

"Over the past 24 hours, some individuals have gathered near our locations to demonstrate. We respect the right to peaceful expression and ask that everyone exercise caution and remain respectful of neighboring businesses, employees, and the surrounding community," Zipps said.