Dozens of fake IDs intercepted

Documents were destined for Brookings

Posted

BROOKINGS – More than 50 fake IDs destined for Brookings have been intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, according to a news release from the Brookings Police Department.

The incident occurred Thursday, when the BPD assisted Homeland Security Investigations. An individual ordered the IDs for themselves and several friends for the purpose of underage alcohol purchases, the press release says. These types of IDs are commonly used by underage individuals to get into bars; however, they have also been used by individuals involved in criminal activity, including terrorists attempting to travel illegally.

Due to the IDs being linked to the Federal REAL ID program, possession of a fictitious ID under this program is a federal offense, according to the release. Additionally, possession of a fake ID can be a state felony charge and/or a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Being convicted of possession of a fake ID can lead to consequences ranging from being allowed into a diversion program up to federal prison and fines. The release went on to say that if someone is convicted of any of these charges, it will be on that individual’s criminal record, and could affect their future in college, their future career opportunities and ability to obtain financial assistance or loans.

So far this year, more than 150 fake IDs destined for Brookings have been confiscated by Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the BPD release says. Officers with the BPD, South Dakota State University Police Department, and Brookings County Sheriff’s Office have also confiscated a number of fake IDs.

The investigation into the fraudulent documents is ongoing.