Full Breakdown
Pokémon Company Responds to DHS Video Featuring Its Intellectual Property
9/26/2025, 8:04:49 AM
Controversial Use of Pokémon Imagery in DHS Video
The Pokémon Company International has publicly distanced itself from a recent video posted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that utilized the franchise's theme song and imagery. The video, shared on the DHS's official X account, features footage of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids set to the iconic "Pokémon" theme song, with the caption "Gotta Catch 'Em All." It includes animated clips of Ash Ketchum and concludes with fake Pokémon trading cards displaying mugshots of individuals arrested by ICE for various alleged crimes, including murder and child endangerment.
Official Response from The Pokémon Company
In response to the video, the Pokémon Company stated, “We are aware of a recent video posted by the Department of Homeland Security that includes imagery and language associated with our brand. Our company was not involved in the creation or distribution of this content, and permission was not granted for the use of our intellectual property.” As of the latest updates, the video remains available online, and the DHS has not issued a public response regarding the Pokémon Company's statement.
Criticism and Backlash
The DHS video has sparked significant outrage online, particularly among Pokémon fans who criticized the inappropriate use of a child-friendly franchise in the context of immigration enforcement. This incident is not isolated; comedian Theo Von also condemned the DHS for using his voice in a separate video promoting ICE raids without his consent. Von expressed his discomfort on X, stating, “Yooo DHS I didn’t approve to be used in this... When it comes to immigration my thoughts and heart are a lot more nuanced than this video allows.” Following his objection, the DHS removed the video featuring Von, but the Pokémon-themed clip remains active.
Broader Implications and Context
This incident highlights a pattern in the DHS's social media strategy, which has previously included various pop culture references to engage audiences. However, this approach has often led to backlash, as seen with the recent Pokémon video and the controversy surrounding Von's clip. The DHS has used music from artists such as DaBaby and Frank Sinatra in its promotional content, but the Pokémon video represents a particularly stark misalignment between the brand's family-friendly image and the serious nature of immigration enforcement.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Pokémon Company has made its stance clear, there is speculation regarding potential legal action. Doug McGowan, a former chief legal officer for the Pokémon Company, indicated that the company is unlikely to pursue direct conflict with the Trump administration over this issue, suggesting that the situation may resolve itself without escalation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are aware of a recent video posted by the Department of Homeland Security that includes imagery and language associated with our brand,” — Pokémon Company International
- “Yooo DHS i didnt approve to be used in this. I know you know my address so send a check. And please take this down and please keep me out of your ‘banger’ deportation videos,” — Theo Von
The controversy surrounding the DHS's use of Pokémon imagery raises questions about the appropriateness of blending entertainment with serious governmental actions, particularly in the sensitive area of immigration enforcement.
