The USDepartment of Homeland Security(DHS) is working to correct what officials describe as a 'multimillion‑dollar error' after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) acquired thousands of branded vehicles that agents say cannot be used in everyday operations.

The order was placed under Madison Sheahan, a 28‑year‑old deputy director appointed by then‑Homeland Security SecretaryKristi Noem. Despite warnings from field officers that conspicuously marked cars would jeopardise undercover enforcement work, the vehicles were emblazoned with dark navy paint, gold ICE lettering, and the motto 'Defend the Homeland.'

These are the very same branding that agents have said make them easily recognisable and unsafe for street‑level operations.

Now DHS officials are trying to amend remaining deliveries and strip the markings before they arrive.

ICE usually relies on unmarked or low-key vehicles so agents can work quietly without drawing attention. But in the second half of 2025, the agency ordered thousands of pickup trucks and SUVs with ICE logos and colours, creating a fully branded fleet for the first time since the agency started in 2003.

According toThe Daily Beast, it was reported that roughly 2,500 vehicles were wrapped with the logo, name, and slogan. But agents declined to use them in regular enforcement work.

One source explained that career officials would not have supported such a purchase if consulted in advance. This is because driving identifiable vehicles 'tips off anyone in eyesight that ICE is out,' making it harder to carry out sensitive operations.

Another insider said the decision left many of the branded cars stored in garages or at detention centres, with some only used for custodial pickups. Currently, some were being used to transport individuals already in custody, rather than for street arrests or searches.

Madison Sheahan served as deputy director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from March 2025 until January 2026. At only 28 years old, this makes her one of the youngest people ever to hold such a senior role in a major federal law‑enforcement agency.

She resigned in January 2026 to run for Congress in Ohio's 9th District, characterising herself as a 'Trump conservative' in her campaign announcement

Source: International Business Times UK