ICE operation targets alleged identity theft at Kings Mountain business

KINGS MOUNTAIN, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — An ICE operation is unfolding Wednesday at a Kings Mountain company, where a criminal search warrant is currently being executed.

Federal agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), alongside numerous other federal and local law enforcement agencies, are on site at Buckeye Fire Equipment Company located at 110 Kings Road.

The search warrant is connected to a federal investigation involving aggravated identity theft and possible violations related to the employment of individuals not legally authorized to work in the U.S., authorities confirmed with Queen City News.

Officials said the operation is being led by ICE but involves several agencies, including the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals, Customs and Border Protection, as well as the Kings Mountain Police.

“KMPD’s role is limited to addressing any potential state charges that may arise as part of the investigation. All inquiries regarding federal charges or other aspects of the investigation should be directed to Homeland Security Investigations,” Kings Mountain Police said in a statement.

Records show Buckeye Fire Equipment Company has had contracts with several agencies, including the Department of Defence (DOD) and the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Law enforcement vehicles have surrounded the property, and activity continues to unfold as agents move in and out of the facility.