On June 24, 2025, a federal grand jury in Phoenix indicted Mehrzad Asadi Eidivand, an Iranian national residing in Tempe, Arizona, for being an alien in possession of a firearm. His wife, Linet Vartanniavartanians, a U.S. citizen also from Tempe, was charged with threatening to assault a federal officer.
According to court documents, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers attempted to arrest Eidivand on June 21 due to his non-compliance with a 2013 removal order. Despite multiple challenges by Eidivand against the order, the Board of Immigration Appeals denied these motions. He remained in the United States for over ten years.
When ICE officers arrived at their residence, Vartanniavartanians refused entry without a warrant and reportedly threatened violence against them. She allegedly claimed possession of a loaded gun and expressed intent to shoot anyone attempting entry. A call from her prompted Tempe Police's involvement. Eidivand confirmed the presence of firearms when speaking with police dispatchers.
The following day, Homeland Security Investigations agents and ICE officers executed a search warrant at the home. They discovered two loaded firearms inside the residence. Both individuals were arrested without further incident.
A conviction for possessing a firearm as an alien carries up to 15 years imprisonment or fines up to $250,000. Threatening a federal officer could result in up to 10 years imprisonment or similar fines.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America by the Department of Justice aimed at addressing illegal immigration and transnational crime organizations.
HSI Phoenix, ICE ERO, and the FBI’s Phoenix Office are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Addison Owen is prosecuting it.
