Pokémon Imagery Used in U.S. Homeland Security ICE Raid Video Sparks Controversy

In a surprising development that has captured the attention of both the gaming community and the general public, the U.S.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently released a video depicting several Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, creatively incorporating notable Pokémon imagery and branding.

The video, which was published online by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, included scenes spliced with visuals directly referencing the globally recognized Pokémon franchise.

Notably, the video featured the iconic catchphrase "Gotta catch 'em all" as a caption, while the official Pokémon theme song played in the background. Pokémon, originally developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo, is one of the most successful video game franchises in history.

Since its debut in 1996, the franchise has sold over 440 million units worldwide across Nintendo hardware platforms such as the Nintendo Switch, Game Boy, and Nintendo DS.

The Pokémon Company, a collaborative venture established by Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures Inc., oversees the brand's vast media presence, including games, merchandise, and an immensely popular anime series. The ICE video, revealed to millions via the official Department of Homeland Security social media account on September 22, quickly drew widespread attention due to its unlicensed use of both Pokémon imagery and audio.

Many fans and industry observers noted that this type of usage is uncommon for a federal agency, especially with a franchise as closely guarded as Pokémon.

Typically, The Pokémon Company enforces strict guidelines regarding intellectual property and licensing, making the situation particularly noteworthy.

While neither The Pokémon Company nor Nintendo have released public statements as of this writing, the use of their intellectual property in a government agency's promotional material raises critical questions about copyright, permission, and appropriate brand representation.

In the past, The Pokémon Company has actively defended its brand against unauthorized usage in both commercial and non-commercial contexts, maintaining the integrity and family-friendly reputation of the franchise. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shared the video with the caption, "Gotta Catch ‘Em All," linking it to the underlying theme of the campaign but in an unprecedented context.

The video’s broad circulation could potentially result in legal review, especially considering the international reach and strict brand management policies of The Pokémon Company. As the video continues to circulate online, the gaming industry will be watching closely to see how Nintendo and The Pokémon Company respond.

The incident underscores the enduring cultural significance of Pokémon and highlights the importance of respecting creative rights, even by government agencies.

For now, the juxtaposition of a beloved, family-friendly game series with a controversial federal operation has spotlighted both the strength of the Pokémon brand and the ongoing conversation about intellectual property in the digital age.

Pokémon The Pokémon Company Xbox Series X|S Pokémon Company S U Department of Homeland Security ICE Nintendo Kristi Noem