Florida Woman Charged with Kidnapping After Posing as ICE Agent to Detain Ex-Boyfriend’s Wife

PANAMA CITY, Fla. — A Florida woman, identified as Latrance Battle, has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies after allegedly impersonating an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent to kidnap her ex-boyfriend’s wife from her workplace, authorities said. The incident, which unfolded in Bay County, has drawn attention to a rising trend of civilians posing as federal agents, a crime that carries significant penalties.

According to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Battle, wearing a shirt emblazoned with “ICE” and carrying a handheld radio, entered the victim’s workplace on April 21, 2025, and presented herself as an immigration officer. She reportedly detained the woman, who is married to Battle’s ex-boyfriend, and transported her to an apartment complex. The sheriff’s office stated that Battle’s actions were motivated by personal animosity stemming from her past relationship with the victim’s husband.

Deputies responded swiftly after the victim alerted authorities. Battle was apprehended and now faces charges including kidnapping in the commission of a felony, robbery by sudden snatching, impersonating a law enforcement officer during a felony, and a felony violation of probation. She is currently being held in the Bay County Jail, with officials noting that her prior criminal history may complicate her case.

The incident has sparked concern amid reports of increasing impersonation cases nationwide. A recent article from EL PAÍS English noted a spike in civilians posing as ICE agents, particularly in Florida, where another individual was arrested in February for similar actions. Such impersonations are federal crimes, punishable by up to three years in prison, fines, or both, depending on the case’s severity.

Local authorities emphasized the seriousness of the offense. “Impersonating a federal officer to intimidate or harm others undermines public safety and trust,” a Bay County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson said. The investigation remains ongoing, with additional details expected as the case progresses.

The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was reportedly unharmed but shaken by the ordeal. Community members in Panama City, part of Bay County’s metropolitan area, expressed relief at Battle’s arrest but raised concerns about the potential for similar incidents in the future.

17GEN4.com