Illinois officials are warning federal immigration officers that tampering with or swapping license plates is a violation of state law following viral footage of an officer admitting agents “change the plates out every day.” Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced a new “Plate Watch” hotline Wednesday, encouraging residents to report suspected misuse of plates on law enforcement vehicles.
In a statement, Giannoulias said, “Swapping out Illinois license plates on Illinois-registered vehicles is illegal and as secretary of state, I have zero tolerance for this type of illegal activity.” He added that “no one, including federal agents, is above the law,” and confirmed an investigation is under way.
Under Illinois law, altering, obscuring, or displaying unauthorized plates can result in fines, jail time, and possible license revocation. The new effort comes as federal immigration raids intensify under the Trump administration, prompting states to adopt stricter transparency measures.
Earlier this month, a federal judge ordered immigration officers in Chicago to wear body cameras. California and congressional Democrats have also proposed legislation requiring federal agents to display clear identification during operations.
Sources:
-
Illinois Secretary of State – Unrated
-
Alexi Giannoulias / X – Unrated
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
