ICE Raids North Carolina Factory Detain Dozens in Identity Theft Probe

Federal agents from ICE and multiple law enforcement agencies executed a criminal search warrant on June 25 at Buckeye Fire Equipment Company in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, as part of a federal investigation into aggravated identity theft and the employment of individuals not authorized to work in the U.S. Approximately 30 people were taken into custody during the operation, with agents questioning employees about their citizenship status and inspecting identification documents. Workers reported being held inside the facility for hours, forced to surrender personal items like cellphones, and subjected to intense questioning, which sparked protests outside the company. ICE spokesperson Lindsay Williams emphasized the seriousness of identity theft allegations and indicated that the number of detainees could rise as the investigation continues. While ICE has not confirmed whether any employers are targets, records show the company holds contracts with agencies including the Department of Defense. The investigation involves multiple federal agencies, including the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals, and Customs and Border Protection.