Arpaio closing jails ahead of immigration protests

Posted: Jun 22, 2012 9:12 AM PDT Updated: Jun 22, 2012 9:13 AM PDT

PHOENIX (AP) - Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio is shutting down county jails in anticipation of protests against Arizona's immigration law.

The sheriff's office plans to close all 6 of its jails Saturday because of a large protest planned in the evening.

Officials say they expect between 1,000 and 4,000 demonstrators outside a Phoenix complex of canvas jail tents, known as "Tent City."

Family and friends will not be permitted to visit inmates during the closure.

Groups who plan to hold vigil outside Tent City include Puente Arizona and the Unitarian Universalist Association.

A spokesman for the Unitarians says the group wanted to protest before the U.S. Supreme Court rules on the controversial immigration measure.

The Supreme Court is expected to announce a ruling next week.

Arpaio closing jails ahead of immigration protests - FOX 10 News - Phoenix, AZ | KSAZ-TV