H.R. 4652: Preventing Fraudulent ICE Impersonation Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Preventing Fraudulent ICE Impersonation Act of 2025, aims to address issues related to the unauthorized use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) insignia and apparel. It outlines several key actions and penalties intended to protect communities from fraud and impersonation incidents involving ICE officers.

Findings

The bill states that:

• Unauthorized impersonation of ICE officers has led to fear and distrust within communities.
• The use of ICE-related apparel by unauthorized individuals poses risks to public safety and undermines trust in law enforcement.
• Strengthening penalties and restricting the sale of ICE-branded items are necessary steps for community protection.

Prohibitions

The bill establishes specific prohibitions regarding the use of ICE insignia and apparel:

Unlawful Impersonation of an ICE Officer

• Individuals not affiliated with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are prohibited from wearing or using items that could be interpreted as impersonating ICE officers.
• Violators could face a fine, imprisonment for up to 7 years, or both.

Prohibition on Sale of ICE Apparel and Insignia

• It is illegal for anyone to manufacture, sell, or distribute ICE-related apparel or insignia without express authorization from DHS.
• Violators may incur civil penalties of up to $100,000 per violation.

Seizure and Forfeiture

The bill allows the seizure and forfeiture of any unauthorized ICE insignia or apparel. Additionally, it mandates that the United States Sentencing Commission enhance penalties associated with impersonating immigration officials, adding no less than 6 months to any prison sentences for such acts.

Public Awareness and Reporting Mechanism

• The Secretary of Homeland Security is tasked with launching a public awareness campaign to inform communities about the threats posed by ICE impersonators.
• A national reporting mechanism, including a hotline and online portal, will be established to facilitate the reporting of impersonation incidents.
• A study will be conducted every six months post-enactment to examine factors leading to impersonation of immigration officials, with reports submitted to Congress.

Rulemaking

The Secretary of Homeland Security must issue any necessary regulations to implement the bill within 180 days of its enactment.

Definitions

For the purposes of the bill, "ICE" refers to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, while "official" encompasses definitions aligned with public officials as stated in existing laws.

Relevant Companies

None found